SEVENTH COMMANDMENT: BLESSED BONDS OF FAITH

Hebrews 13:4 (KJV): “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”

ABSTRACT

Marriage and moral purity embody God’s divine plan for human relationships, emphasizing fidelity, love, and holiness as reflected in biblical teachings and the writings of Ellen G. White.

GOD’S GRAND DESIGN

Marriage and moral purity hold a significant place in spiritual and social teachings, exemplifying God’s divine plan for humanity. The seventh commandment, “Thou shalt not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14, KJV), forbids infidelity, guarding against behaviors that harm individuals and communities. Fidelity forms the foundation of strong connections. This commandment reflects God’s intent to uphold the sanctity of relationships, teaching fidelity as a foundation for human interactions. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ, as supported by John 15:5 (KJV): “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” Moral purity aligns with God’s holiness, as seen in Leviticus 20:7 (KJV): “Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the Lord your God.” Sr. White explains that “The grace of Christ, and this alone, can make this institution what God designed it should be—an agent for the blessing and uplifting of humanity. And thus the families of earth, in their unity and peace and love, may represent the family of heaven” (The Adventist Home, p. 100, 1952). She further notes, “Before assuming the responsibilities involved in marriage, young men and young women should have such an experience in practical life as will prepare them for its duties and its burdens. Early marriages are not to be encouraged. A relation so important as marriage and so far-reaching in its results should not be entered upon hastily, without sufficient preparation, and before the mental and physical powers are well developed” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 358, 1905). These truths guide us toward stronger bonds with God and each other. But how does marriage reveal divine love in everyday actions?

LOVE’S LUMINOUS REFLECTION

Marriage and purity reflect God’s love by demonstrating His selflessness, grace, and desire for human wholeness. Marriage mirrors Christ’s sacrificial love, as seen in Ephesians 5:25 (KJV), where husbands are called to love their wives as Christ loved the church. Human relationships flourish through divine principles. Sr. White affirms, “The gospel restores purity and beauty,” emphasizing that human relationships should reflect divine love (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 100). Furthermore, purity in thought and action safeguards relationships and honors God’s design. She writes, “When Christ abides in the heart, there will be purity and refinement of thought and manner.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 42). Love binds hearts together, as affirmed by Colossians 3:14 (KJV): “And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” Selfless devotion strengthens unions, as shown in Philippians 2:3 (KJV): “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Sr. White observes, “The divine love emanating from Christ never destroys human love, but includes it. By it human love is refined and purified, elevated and ennobled” (The Adventist Home, p. 99, 1952). She adds, “Christ came not to destroy this institution, but to restore it to its original sanctity and elevation. He came to restore the moral image of God in man, and He began His work by sanctioning the marriage relation” (The Adventist Home, p. 99, 1952). These principles embody God’s love by promoting faithfulness, respect, and spiritual growth, preparing us for eternal communion with Him. Yet what duties do we carry toward our Creator in these sacred ties?

OUR OBLIGATIONS TO THE ALMIGHTY

We owe God a life of obedience, faithfulness, and devotion. The Bible teaches in 1 Corinthians 3:16–17 (KJV): “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” Obedience honors the divine presence within us. Sr. White reinforces this responsibility, stating, “The pure in heart live as in the visible presence of God during the time He apportions them in this world” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 45). This means honoring God through moral purity, respecting the body as a temple, and living a holy life. Devotion calls for wholehearted surrender, as echoed in Deuteronomy 6:5 (KJV): “And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” Faithfulness guards against defilement, as reinforced by 1 Corinthians 6:18 (KJV): “Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.” Sr. White writes, “True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. It is, on the contrary, an element calm and deep. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 133, 1870). She further states, “Purity of heart and life is essential to the happiness of the home” (The Adventist Home, p. 25, 1952). In doing so, we reflect God’s holiness and prepare ourselves for eternal communion with Him. But how do these duties extend to those around us?

NEIGHBORLY NOBILITY

We have a responsibility to treat our neighbors with love, respect, and fairness, as commanded in Galatians 5:22–23 (KJV): “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” Love guides interactions with compassion. Sr. White reinforces this principle: “Love is the basis of godliness. Whatever the profession, no man has pure love to God unless he has unselfish love for his brother.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 384). This means showing kindness, practicing forgiveness, and being patient, as these actions reflect the character of Christ. Respect fosters harmony, as supported by Romans 12:10 (KJV): “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.” Fairness upholds justice, as seen in Micah 6:8 (KJV): “He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” Sr. White notes, “The spirit of Christ is a missionary spirit. The very first impulse of the renewed heart is to bring others also to the Saviour” (The Great Controversy, p. 70, 1888). She adds, “God requires that all who profess to be His children shall represent Him in spirit and character” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 21, 1909). By living in harmony with these teachings, we fulfill our obligations to others and honor God through our relationships. Now, what blueprint does Scripture provide for marital unions?

DIVINE DESIGN DECODED

Marriage is established by God, as stated in Genesis 1:27–28 “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.” God created man and woman in His image, blessed them, and commanded them to be fruitful, multiply, and rule over creation. Creation reveals intentional partnership. This passage highlights marriage as a sacred union ordained by the Creator. Sr. White affirms this divine origin, stating, “God celebrated the first marriage. Marriage is honorable; it was one of the first gifts of God to man” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 46). She emphasizes that marriage, instituted by the Creator, remained with Adam after the fall, symbolizing its enduring value. Partnership thrives in equality, as affirmed by 1 Corinthians 11:11 (KJV): “Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.” Blessing multiplies through obedience, as shown in Psalm 128:1 (KJV): “Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways.” Sr. White writes, “Marriage, a union for life, is a symbol of the union between Christ and His church” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 46, 1902). She further explains, “The family tie is the closest, the most tender and sacred, of any on earth. It was designed to be a blessing to mankind” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 356, 1905). These foundations secure lasting joy in unions. Yet how does this design sustain through trials?

Sr. White further describes marriage as the closest, most tender, and sacred bond on earth, designed to bless humanity (The Adventist Home, p. 18). She highlights that marriage reflects divine love and supports societal stability. Stability arises from shared purpose. When grounded in God’s principles, it promotes purity, happiness, and fulfillment, elevating physical, intellectual, and moral character (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 46). Marriage provides physical, emotional, and spiritual blessings. Following divine principles safeguards joy and stability, fulfilling God’s vision for humanity. Harmony elevates lives, as supported by Proverbs 18:22 (KJV): “Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.” Fulfillment grows through mutual uplift, as seen in Ecclesiastes 4:9 (KJV): “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.” Sr. White states, “In the work of God no compromise can be made with evil. The marriage relation is holy, and must be entered into with a full sense of responsibility” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 10, p. 183, 1990). She adds, “The home is to be regarded as a sacred place, witnessing to God’s truth” (The Adventist Home, p. 19, 1952). These elements nurture enduring partnerships. But what role does selfless love play in this vision?

Biblical teachings reinforce the sanctity of marriage, where Ephesians encourages husbands and wives to love each other selflessly, reflecting Christ’s relationship with the church: Ephesians 5:22–25 “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.” Sr. White acknowledges that sin has distorted marriage, but the gospel restores its purity and beauty (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 100). She explains that marriage symbolizes the union between Christ and His people, reflecting mutual respect, selflessness, and divine love. Selflessness mirrors heavenly bonds. She further emphasizes that marriage, like other gifts from God, can be corrupted by sin. However, through faith and obedience, it can regain its intended purity. Both the Old and New Testaments portray marriage as a representation of Christ’s love for His redeemed people, underscoring its spiritual significance. Sr. White adds, “Marriage, in the sight of heaven, is to be regarded as sacred and holy. Let those who are contemplating this step pray earnestly to God for His guidance. Let them solemnly consider the result of every privilege and obligation which marriage involves.” (The Adventist Home, p. 70). Respect endures through trials, as affirmed by 1 Peter 3:7 (KJV): “Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.” Obedience renews strength, as shown in Isaiah 54:5 (KJV): “For thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called.” Sr. White writes, “The Lord Jesus has not been correctly represented in His relation to His believing ones by many who claim to be united to Him” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 363, 1923). She further notes, “The warmth of true friendship and the love that binds heart with heart is a foretaste of the joys of heaven” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 360, 1905). These symbols inspire deeper commitment. Yet how do unions withstand human flaws?

COMMITMENT CHALLENGES CONQUERED

Despite its divine origin, marriage has faced challenges due to human sinfulness. Matthew 19:8 “He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.” God permitted divorce among the Israelites because of their hardened hearts. Hardness disrupts sacred vows. Sr. White explains that such allowances arose from societal practices leading to “great wretchedness and sin” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 99). However, Jesus clarified that divorce should only occur in cases of marital unfaithfulness. This teaching reaffirms the permanence and sanctity of marriage, encouraging adherence to God’s original design. Permanence withstands trials, as supported by Malachi 2:16 (KJV): “For the Lord, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the Lord of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.” Adherence restores order, as seen in Mark 10:9 (KJV): “What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.” Sr. White states, “In the youth, manhood, and old age, the marriage relation should be sacredly guarded” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 7, p. 455, 1990). She adds, “Many marriages are hastily formed, and the result is unhappiness and often crime” (The Adventist Home, p. 80, 1952). These insights promote lasting fidelity. But what deeper safeguards protect against inner temptations?

The seventh commandment also addresses deeper issues of purity. Matthew 5:27–28 “Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” Jesus warns against lustful thoughts, teaching that sin begins in the heart. Thoughts shape actions profoundly. Sr. White elaborates, stating, “He who indulges the evil thought, the lustful look, may behold in the open sin…the true nature of the evil” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 94). This commentary emphasizes that moral purity requires guarding one’s thoughts and intentions. Purity protects individuals from the destructive consequences of sin, aligning them with God’s will. She elaborates, stating, “When the thought of evil is loved and cherished, however secretly, said Jesus, it shows that sin still reigns in the heart. ‘The soul is still in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity. He who finds pleasure in dwelling upon scenes of impurity, who indulges the evil thought, the lustful look, may behold in the open sin, with its burden of shame and heart-rending grief, the true nature of the evil which he has hidden in the chambers of the soul.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 94). Guarding aligns with righteousness, as affirmed by Proverbs 4:23 (KJV): “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Alignment brings peace, as shown in Psalm 119:165 (KJV): “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” Sr. White writes, “The mind must be kept pure, because the health of the body is very largely dependent upon the health of the soul” (Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, p. 569, 1977). She further notes, “True religion ennobles the mind, refines the taste, sanctifies the judgment, and makes the soul a partaker of the purity of heaven” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 359, 1875). These protections foster true freedom. Yet how do hardened hearts find restoration?

God permitted divorce among the Israelites because of their hardened hearts. Ellen G. White explains that such allowances arose from societal practices leading to “great wretchedness and sin” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 99). However, Jesus clarified that divorce should only occur in cases of marital unfaithfulness. She writes, “Among the Jews, a man was permitted to put away his wife for the most trivial offenses, and the woman was then at liberty to marry again. This practice led to great wretchedness and sin. In the sermon on the mount, Jesus declared plainly that there could be no dissolution of the marriage tie, except for unfaithfulness to the marriage vow.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 99). Sr. White also cautions against hasty marriages and selfish motives, writing, “Many have thus wrecked their happiness in this life and their hope of the life to come.” (The Adventist Home, p. 44). Sr. White further warns, “Marriage contracted on impulse and selfish motives will result in misery; but the marriage that is entered upon with pure motives and under the guidance of God will bring happiness.” (The Adventist Home, p. 49). This teaching reaffirms the permanence and sanctity of marriage, encouraging adherence to God’s original design. Restoration overcomes hardness, as supported by Ezekiel 36:26 (KJV): “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” Encouragement builds resilience, as seen in Romans 12:2 (KJV): “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Sr. White states, “The Lord desires His people to be a separate people, to be clean in heart and life” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 3, p. 211, 1990). She adds, “Let the soul be uplifted from the lowlands of sin to the heavenly atmosphere” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 317, 1904). These renewals inspire faithful paths. But what radical steps secure purity?

HOLINESS HEROICS

Christ’s teachings further illustrate the necessity of radical commitment to purity: Matthew 5:29–30 (KJV)”And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” Sr. White reflects on this, writing, “But it is better, says Christ, for self to be maimed, wounded, crippled, if thus you may enter into life. That which you look upon as disaster is the door to highest benefit.” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 96). Commitment demands decisive action. She also emphasizes the role of discipline, saying, “Christ will impart to His faithful followers a sanctified will that will work out the purposes of God.” (Messages to Young People, p. 151). Sr. White adds, “Purity and steadfast principles are the secrets of true happiness. Those who stand for truth and honor God with their lives will enjoy His eternal blessings.” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 598). Discipline yields rewards, as affirmed by Hebrews 12:11 (KJV): “Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” Steadfastness brings joy, as shown in James 1:12 (KJV): “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” Sr. White writes, “The religion of Christ means more than the forgiveness of sin; it means taking away our sins, and filling the vacuum with the graces of the Holy Spirit” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 419, 1900). She further notes, “Holiness is wholeness for God; it is the entire surrender of heart and life to the indwelling of the principles of heaven” (The Desire of Ages, p. 556, 1898). These commitments lead to eternal rewards. Yet how does this divine setup bless daily lives?

ETERNAL EMBRACE

Marriage is a divine institution established by God to bless humanity. It fosters love, stability, and moral growth, reflecting Christ’s relationship with the church. Stability anchors families firmly. When built on God’s principles, marriage is a source of joy. Growth nurtures souls, as supported by Proverbs 31:10 (KJV): “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.” Joy flows from alignment, as seen in Song of Solomon 8:7 (KJV): “Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it: if a man would give all the substance of his house for love, it would utterly be contemned.” Sr. White explains, “Like every other one of God’s good gifts entrusted to the keeping of humanity, marriage has been perverted by sin; but it is the purpose of the gospel to restore its purity and beauty” (The Adventist Home, p. 100, 1952). She adds, “The condition of society presents a sad comment upon Heaven’s ideal of this sacred relation. Yet even for those who have found bitterness and disappointment where they had hoped for companionship and joy, the gospel of Christ offers a solace” (The Adventist Home, p. 100, 1952). These blessings enrich every moment.

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SEVENTH COMMANDMENT: BLESSED BONDS OF FAITH

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