Matthew 5:27
Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
Original Language Analysis
ὅτι
that
G3754
ὅτι
that
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
2 of 7
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 7
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Deuteronomy 5:18Neither shalt thou commit adultery.Exodus 20:14Thou shalt not commit adultery.Proverbs 6:32But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.Leviticus 20:10And the man that committeth adultery with another man's wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.Matthew 5:21Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:
Historical Context
Adultery was clearly prohibited in the Mosaic Law and carried the death penalty. However, enforcement was inconsistent, and men often received more lenient treatment than women. Jesus will challenge not just the double standard but the lustful heart behind adultery.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's Law address not just actions but the heart attitudes behind them?
- Why is it easier to avoid physical adultery than to maintain purity of thought and desire?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus quotes the Seventh Commandment against adultery, which the people knew and affirmed. But He will expand it to address the heart, not just the act. This pattern continues throughout the sermon: Jesus reveals the Law's true intent and exposes superficial obedience.