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Hebrews 13:4
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- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Marriage is honorable in all - Let this state be highly esteemed as one of God's own instituting, and as highly calculated to produce the best interests of mankind. This may have been said against the opinions of the Essenes, called Therapeutae, who held marriage in little repute, and totally abstained from it themselves as a state of comparative imperfection. At the same time it shows the absurdity of the popish tenet, that marriage in the clergy is both dishonorable and sinful; which is, in fact, in opposition to the apostle, who says marriage is honorable in All; and to the institution of God, which evidently designed that every male and female should be united in this holy bond; and to nature, which in every part of the habitable world has produced men and women in due proportion to each other. The bed undefiled - Every man cleaving to his own wife, and every wife cleaving to her own husband, because God will judge, i.e. punish, all fornicators and adulterers. Instead of δε but, γαρ, for, is the reading of AD*, one other, with the Vulgate, Coptic, and one of the Itala; it more forcibly expresses the reason of the prohibition: Let the bed be undefiled, For whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
is, &c.--Translate, "Let marriage be treated as honorable": as Heb 13:5 also is an exhortation. in all--"in the case of all men": "among all." "To avoid fornication let EVERY MAN have his own wife" (Co1 7:2). Judaism and Gnosticism combined were soon about to throw discredit on marriage. The venerable Paphnutius, in the Council of Nice, quoted this verse for the justification of the married state. If one does not himself marry, he should not prevent others from doing so. Others, especially Romanists, translate, "in all things," as in Heb 13:18. But the warning being against lasciviousness, the contrast to "whoremongers and adulterers" in the parallel clause, requires the "in all" in this clause to refer to persons. the bed undefiled--Translate, as Greek requires "undefiled" to be a predicate, not an epithet, "And let the bed be undefiled." God will judge--Most whoremongers escape the notice of human tribunals; but God takes particular cognizance of those whom man does not punish. Gay immoralities will then be regarded in a very different light from what they are now.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Marriage is honourable in all,.... Some read these words as an exhortation, "let" it "be so"; others as an assertion, it is so. "Marriage" is the union of one man and one woman in wedlock, whereby they become one flesh; it is a joining together of male and female in this relation, and of two only, and of such as are not within the degrees of blood forbid by the law, Lev 18:6 and of such as are fit for marriage: and this is "honourable", as it was instituted by God, and has been honoured with the presence of Christ, Gen 2:22. And it is so in the ends of it, being to procreate children, multiply the earth, build up families, preserve a legitimate offspring, and prevent fornication and all uncleanness; and it is so, when the duties of the relation are performed on both sides: and it is honourable "in all"; in all things, in all respects, upon all accounts; "every way", as the Arabic version renders it; or as the Ethiopic version, "everywhere"; it has been honourably esteemed of among all nations; it becomes persons of all ranks and degrees, quality, and order; and it is honourable in all that are lawfully married, and do not violate the marriage contract, or defile the marriage bed: hereby are condemned such who despise marriage, that they may give a loose to their wandering and insatiable lusts; and such who, under a pretence of greater sanctity and perfection, reject it as unlawful; and the Papists, who deny it to men employed in sacred work: and the bed undefiled: the Arabic version reads, "his bed"; and the Syriac and Ethiopic versions, "their bed"; the bed of such whose marriage is honourable; which is not polluted by admitting others into it, or by acts of fornication and adultery: "but", or "for", as the Alexandrian copy reads, whoremongers and adulterers God will judge; the former of these may be rendered "fornicators", as it is by the Vulgate Latin version: fornication is a sin committed by single persons, unmarried ones; and though it was reckoned among the Gentiles a thing indifferent, yet is contrary to the law of God, and is a work of the flesh, and makes unfit for the kingdom of God, and brings down the judgments of God both here and hereafter. And this is in opposition to marriage, which is appointed to prevent it. The sin "adulterers" are guilty of, is a sin committed by persons, who are either one or both in a married state, and so is directly a pollution of the marriage bed: this was punishable with death by the law of God, and light of nature; and though men may make light of it, God will judge and punish such as commit it, both in this life, with diseases, poverty, and disgrace, and in the world to come, at the great day of account; for however secretly it may be committed, God, who is omniscient, sees it, and will bring it into judgment; nor shall any be able to escape the righteous judgment of God, for he is omnipotent, as well as omniscient. The Jews say, "whoever lies with another man's wife, shall not escape "the judgment", or damnation of hell (t)'' (t) T. Bab. Sota. fol. 4. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:4 Give honor to marriage means to protect it and hold it as highly valuable. • Immoral refers to all sexually illicit behavior. • Adultery breaks the marriage vow by engaging in sexual activity outside the marriage relationship.
Hebrews 13:4
Brotherly Love
3Remember those in prison as if you were bound with them, and those who are mistreated as if you were suffering with them.4Marriage should be honored by all and the marriage bed kept undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Marriage in the Christian Home - Part 1
By Keith Daniel3.5K1:24:10MarriagePSA 119:114PRO 3:5MAT 4:4TIT 2:11HEB 13:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the topic of marriage and the Christian home. He starts by mentioning a verse from the Bible, Hebrews 13:4, which he believes would have significant consequences if read in every church. He shares how his message on marriage had a profound impact on people's lives, bringing healing and restoration to broken marriages. The preacher emphasizes the importance of following God's word and being in submission to one's spouse, particularly wives being in subjection to their husbands.
Dealing With Lust
By George Verwer3.1K47:09MAT 6:33HEB 13:41PE 2:11In this sermon, the speaker addresses the struggle of a married man who is studying for the ministry and battling with lustful desires. The man feels isolated and unable to find someone to confide in. The speaker suggests several strategies to overcome these temptations, including engaging in physical exercise, finding legitimate enjoyments in life, and using diversionary tactics when faced with temptation. The speaker also shares a story about a man who resisted the temptation of a prostitute by chopping wood instead. The overall message emphasizes the importance of finding practical ways to resist lustful desires and remain faithful to God.
(Women) 01. Marriage Is Honourable
By Keith Daniel2.6K1:09:47MarriageMAT 5:21JHN 1:12JHN 3:3JHN 14:6JHN 15:5HEB 13:41JN 1:7In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the lack of faithfulness and trust in the world, particularly in marriages. However, their perspective changes when they meet their new neighbors who are born again Christians and serve Christ together. The speaker is amazed by the couple's dedication to God and their efforts to share the message of Jesus. The sermon takes a personal turn when the speaker reunites with the couple after many years and learns that they have gone through a divorce and faced numerous tragedies. The speaker ponders the tragic ending to their marriage and family, but does not delve into the details out of respect for their privacy.
The History of Rock - Part 1
By Alan Ives2.1K2:09:12Rock MusicPRO 18:23PRO 20:1PRO 21:21MAT 11:12EPH 5:18COL 3:16HEB 13:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of playing good music and its impact on the attitude of Christians. He refers to First Thessalonians 5 and highlights the various purposes of music, including glorifying God, teaching us how to call upon Him, and sharing testimonies of God's work in our lives. The speaker also discusses the historical significance of music in America, noting that for 300 years, the country thrived on Psalms and spiritual songs. However, he mentions that in the late 19th century, sensual dance rhythms like the rumba entered America, leading to a decline in wholesome music. The sermon concludes with a call to pray and prioritize wholesome music in order to serve the Lord and live a blessed life.
Glory of Christ's Priesthood Contrasted With the Immorality of the Rc Priesthood
By Richard Bennett1.5K1:03:091TI 3:2TIT 1:6HEB 8:1HEB 9:26HEB 10:12HEB 10:14HEB 13:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the corruption and issues within American seminaries and the Catholic Church. They highlight the prevalence of doctrinal error, liturgical abuse, and misconduct among seminarians. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the glory of Christ's priesthood and the need to reach out to Catholic priests and believers. They also emphasize the significance of Christ's one sacrifice, which is mentioned multiple times in the Bible, to emphasize the perfection of his priesthood.
12 Real Christian Morals
By George Verwer1.2K1:06:21MoralityGEN 35:22GEN 49:3MAT 6:332TI 2:22HEB 13:4In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of sexual immorality and its consequences. He shares a personal experience of dealing with similar situations and emphasizes the importance of being cautious, especially for women, in order to avoid dangerous encounters. The speaker highlights the psychological effects of indulging in sinful desires and warns against the belief that such behavior brings pleasure without consequences. He references the Bible, particularly 2 Timothy 2:22, to encourage the audience to flee from youthful lusts and instead pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. The sermon concludes with a call to adhere to the Ten Commandments and reject the acceptance of pornography in society.
Twenty Years of Family Life
By George Verwer1.1K58:49Family LifeMarriage PrinciplesGEN 2:24PRO 22:6MAL 2:16MAT 19:61CO 13:4EPH 5:25COL 3:191TH 5:17HEB 13:41PE 4:8George Verwer reflects on the 20 years of family life within Operation Mobilization (OM), emphasizing the importance of prioritizing family, discipline, and real love in maintaining strong marriages. He acknowledges the challenges of divorce and separation faced by many, even within the church, and highlights the miraculous success of OM in fostering lasting relationships among its members. Verwer shares insights on the necessity of prayer, submission, and open communication in marriage, while also addressing the dangers of extremism and hyper-idealism. He encourages couples to embrace the principles of commitment and discipline, recognizing that true love is an act of the will rather than merely a feeling. Ultimately, he praises God for the blessings experienced in family life over the past two decades.
Church Live Re-Visited: Session Seven - Part 2
By Ron Bailey1.0K24:37GEN 2:23PRO 18:22MAT 19:6MRK 10:91CO 7:21CO 7:9EPH 5:31COL 3:19HEB 13:4This sermon delves into the significance of the phrase 'bone of my bones, flesh of my flesh' in Genesis chapter 2, highlighting how it symbolizes family and belonging rather than ownership. It explores the mutuality of marriage as intended by God, emphasizing the shared sense of belonging between a husband and wife. The sermon also touches on the historical and cultural aspects of marriage, discussing the concept of sexual immorality and the importance of understanding one's own will before seeking God's will.
Cd Gv269 What the Bible Says About Sex
By George Verwer71643:26PRO 5:181CO 6:18GAL 6:7EPH 5:28HEB 13:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding and teaching about sex according to the Bible. He shares a personal anecdote about a young man who approached him with questions about masturbation, highlighting the need for clear biblical guidance on the topic. The speaker then references Hebrews 13:4 and discusses the warnings and teachings about sex found throughout the Bible, particularly in Proverbs. He encourages listeners to flee from youthful lust and emphasizes that struggles with impure thoughts and dreams are common in today's promiscuous society, but can be overcome through God's word.
Cd Gv116 What the Bible Says About Sex
By George Verwer68341:16MAT 6:331CO 6:18GAL 6:7EPH 5:252TI 2:22HEB 13:4In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding God's plan for marriage and the Christian home. He references Ephesians 5:25, which instructs husbands to love their wives as Christ loved the church. The speaker also discusses the need to flee from youthful lusts and instead pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. He shares his personal belief in the benefits of physical exercise, particularly jogging, and relates it to the importance of discipline in various aspects of life, including spiritual disciplines like quiet time and study habits. The speaker acknowledges the prevalence of sexual temptation in society and encourages listeners to learn how to say no to their instincts and stand against lust through God's word.
Testimony of Om
By George Verwer6821:02:38PSA 119:9PSA 119:11GAL 5:17HEB 13:4JAS 1:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses his personal journey of becoming a follower of Jesus Christ. He initially lived a lazy and pleasure-seeking lifestyle, but after reading the gospel of God, he began to understand the message of Jesus Christ. Inspired by evangelist Billy Graham, he decided to attend a sports event where Graham was speaking. It was during this event that he made a commitment to the Lord and experienced a transformation in his life. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of not just believing with the head, but also with the heart and living a life dedicated to following Christ.
Marriage: Sex, Gross Good or God?
By Shane Idleman5891:06:27PRO 5:18JER 29:13MAT 5:28MRK 7:20ROM 1:181CO 6:91CO 7:1EPH 4:19HEB 13:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God's will in relationships, highlighting the dangers of sexual immorality, the need for purity, and the impact of lust on individuals and marriages. It calls for repentance, humility, and a return to God's standards in a culture filled with sexual perversion and deception. The speaker urges listeners to seek God wholeheartedly, to build trust in relationships, and to prioritize righteousness over worldly desires.
Temptations (Eng to german)(15.9.1983) Om Conf
By George Verwer8416:59GermanMAT 6:331CO 10:122TI 3:16HEB 13:4JAS 4:7In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of temptation and the fallen nature of humanity. He acknowledges that everyone experiences temptations and sometimes even hostile feelings towards others. However, he emphasizes that God is faithful and will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear. He encourages the audience to take heed and not fall into temptation, reminding them of the verse in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that assures God will provide a way out. The speaker shares his own experiences with temptation and highlights the importance of prayer and relying on God's strength to overcome it.
Dating and Preparation for Marriage
By Mike Bickle221:14:07Marriage PreparationBiblical DatingPRO 4:23MAT 19:61CO 6:92CO 6:14EPH 5:25PHP 4:8COL 3:21TH 4:3HEB 13:41PE 3:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of a biblical perspective on dating and preparation for marriage, urging young people to establish clear boundaries and to be equally yoked in their faith and values. He warns against false idealism and stresses that physical attraction alone cannot sustain a marriage; respect and shared vision are crucial. Bickle encourages individuals to be intentional in their dating relationships, to seek spiritual growth, and to engage in open discussions about issues like pornography and personal struggles. He highlights the significance of accountability and the need for both partners to pursue a relationship that honors God.
If the Foundations Are Destroyed
By Shane Idleman1849:38The Role of the Church in SocietyRestoration of Foundations2CH 7:14NEH 1:4PSA 11:3ISA 58:12JER 20:9MAT 5:14ROM 13:3EPH 6:121TI 2:1HEB 13:4Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical role of the church in guiding society during turbulent times, asserting that if the foundations of truth are destroyed, the righteous must act to restore them. He reflects on the historical significance of Election Day sermons and the church's responsibility to speak truth into political matters, warning against the dangers of fear and discouragement that can undermine faith. Idleman calls for a revival of spiritual fervor and intercession, urging believers to engage in the spiritual battles facing the nation and to uphold the foundations of marriage, government, and the church as essential to societal health. He passionately argues that the church must reclaim its voice as the moral compass of the nation, standing firm against false narratives and societal decay.
1 Peter 3:7
By John Gill0MarriageSpiritual LeadershipPRO 18:22MAL 2:141CO 7:3GAL 3:28EPH 5:25COL 3:191TH 4:41TI 5:8HEB 13:41PE 3:7John Gill emphasizes the importance of husbands dwelling with their wives in a manner that honors and respects them, highlighting the need for understanding and fulfilling marital duties according to knowledge of both the Gospel and natural law. He explains that husbands should treat their wives as the 'weaker vessel,' providing care and support, and recognizing their equal status as heirs of grace and eternal life. Gill warns that neglecting these responsibilities can hinder prayers and spiritual unity within the family, urging husbands to foster a loving and respectful environment to ensure their prayers are effective.
What's Wrong With the World
By Gilbert K. Chesterton0GEN 2:24PSA 127:3PRO 14:1PRO 24:31CO 13:4EPH 5:25COL 3:141TI 5:8HEB 13:41PE 3:7Gilbert K. Chesterton preaches about the importance of the institution of the family and the home, highlighting the unique and essential role it plays in society. He emphasizes the idea that the family is an ancient and anarchist institution, standing outside the State, refreshed or corrupted by forces of custom or kinship. Chesterton argues that the family is a necessity for mankind, a trap for mankind, and a place where individuals can find joy and fulfillment within limits. He discusses the concept of property as a form of limited creation, where individuals can shape something in their own image, reflecting the image of heaven.
Concerning Marriages
By George Fox0Divine Guidance in MarriageThe Light of ChristMAT 19:6JHN 3:19PHP 3:19HEB 13:4George Fox emphasizes the significance of aligning marriages with the light of Christ, warning against unions formed in opposition to this divine guidance. He asserts that those who act contrary to this light are aware of their wrongdoings and face condemnation. True marriages, according to Fox, are those joined by God through His light, which should not be separated by man. He highlights that such unions are honorable and blessed, reflecting God's command and power. Ultimately, Fox calls for a commitment to the divine light in all relationships.
To Friends, Concerning Marriages
By George Fox0MarriageUnity in ChristGEN 2:24PRO 18:22MAT 5:161CO 7:392CO 6:14EPH 5:31COL 3:14HEB 13:41PE 3:71JN 1:7George Fox emphasizes that true and honorable marriages are those joined by God in the Light, which represents unity and the Covenant of Life and Peace. He asserts that any marriage not rooted in the Lord is not honorable, and those who oppose marriage are not in the Light. Fox encourages the Children of Light to let their Light shine, ensuring that honorable marriages are recognized and anything contrary is condemned. He calls for transparency in marriage proceedings, urging that they be examined in the Light to maintain unity and purity among believers. Ultimately, he prays for the God of Peace and Love to guide them in wisdom and purity.
(Sex, Love & Marriage) 3. Opposite Poles Attract
By Zac Poonen0FriendshipPurity in RelationshipsPRO 4:23MAT 5:28ROM 14:161CO 8:1GAL 5:13EPH 5:31TH 4:31TI 5:2HEB 13:41PE 5:8Zac Poonen discusses the natural attraction between the sexes, emphasizing that while it is normal to seek friendship and admiration from the opposite sex, it is crucial to maintain a disciplined approach to these feelings. He warns against both excessive intimacy and complete avoidance, advocating for a balanced relationship that honors God and respects personal boundaries. Poonen highlights the importance of treating members of the opposite sex with purity and integrity, particularly in the context of friendships and dating, which can lead to emotional complications if not approached wisely. He encourages young people to focus on their spiritual growth and responsibilities before considering marriage, and to avoid dating and petting, which can lead to moral pitfalls. Ultimately, Poonen calls for a life that glorifies God, free from regret and frustration.
Discipleship and Marriage
By William MacDonald0MarriageDiscipleshipGEN 1:28GEN 2:18PRO 18:22ECC 4:9MAT 5:13MAT 19:12LUK 14:281CO 7:21CO 7:32HEB 13:4William MacDonald addresses the complex relationship between discipleship and marriage, emphasizing that while marriage is a divine institution meant for companionship, procreation, and purity, it is not a universal calling for every disciple. He highlights that some may choose celibacy to serve Christ more fully, underscoring the importance of individual guidance from God in this decision. MacDonald warns against the distractions that marriage can bring, urging believers to prioritize their commitment to Christ above all else. He encourages counting the cost of discipleship, reminding that true followers must be willing to forsake everything for the sake of the Gospel. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to glorifying God, free from the entanglements of worldly desires.
(Sex, Love & Marriage) 5. Two Shall Become One
By Zac Poonen0GEN 2:18PSA 78:5ECC 4:9MAT 19:31CO 7:2EPH 5:221TI 4:1HEB 13:4REV 19:7Zac Poonen preaches on the beauty of unity in marriage, contrasting harmonious Christian couples with those who lack understanding and oneness, leading to misery. He emphasizes the importance of obeying God's Word in marriage to ensure success and happiness. Poonen delves into God's design for marriage, highlighting companionship, the establishment of a home, and sexual fulfillment as key purposes ordained by God. He also discusses the symbolism of marriage, drawing parallels between the husband-wife relationship and Christ-Church relationship, stressing the need for mutual love, respect, and self-sacrifice.
The Christian Husband
By J.R. Miller0Christian MarriageLove and SacrificePRO 31:10MRK 10:91CO 13:4GAL 5:22EPH 4:2EPH 5:25COL 3:19HEB 13:41PE 3:71JN 4:19J.R. Miller emphasizes the vital role of the husband in a Christian marriage, highlighting that love is the foundation of his duties. He explains that a husband's love should be selfless, gentle, and supportive, mirroring Christ's love for the Church. Miller stresses the importance of honoring and sharing life with one's wife, ensuring that she feels valued and included in all aspects of life. He warns against the dangers of neglecting spiritual companionship, urging husbands to walk alongside their wives in faith. Ultimately, a true Christian husband fosters a nurturing environment that allows both partners to grow in love and faith together.
Edition 10 - Everywhere Preaching the Word
By William Seymour0ISA 55:7MAT 3:11MAT 28:19JHN 15:3JHN 17:15ACT 2:3ROM 6:3ROM 7:2HEB 13:4William Seymour preaches about the powerful experiences of seeking the fullness of God through the Baptism in the Holy Spirit. He shares personal encounters of deep prayer, cleansing, and seeking God earnestly. Through a series of spiritual encounters, including visions of the cross, the dove, and the lily, Seymour experiences the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in a profound way. He describes manifestations of speaking in tongues and the overwhelming sense of God's glory and anointing upon him.
Moral Decline
By Colin Peckham0EXO 20:14PSA 119:105PRO 6:32ROM 12:21CO 6:92TI 3:16HEB 13:4JAS 4:41JN 2:15Colin Peckham addresses the prevalent immorality in society, particularly focusing on the normalization of pre-marital and extra-marital sexual relationships, contrasting it with the timeless moral standards set by God in the Bible, such as the commandment 'Thou shalt not commit adultery'. He emphasizes the importance of upholding biblical teachings on chastity before marriage and fidelity within marriage, highlighting the detrimental effects of immorality on individuals, families, communities, and nations. Peckham also underscores the enduring relevance and authority of the Bible, despite attempts throughout history to undermine or ignore its teachings, urging a return to God's standards for healthier and righteous living.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Marriage is honorable in all - Let this state be highly esteemed as one of God's own instituting, and as highly calculated to produce the best interests of mankind. This may have been said against the opinions of the Essenes, called Therapeutae, who held marriage in little repute, and totally abstained from it themselves as a state of comparative imperfection. At the same time it shows the absurdity of the popish tenet, that marriage in the clergy is both dishonorable and sinful; which is, in fact, in opposition to the apostle, who says marriage is honorable in All; and to the institution of God, which evidently designed that every male and female should be united in this holy bond; and to nature, which in every part of the habitable world has produced men and women in due proportion to each other. The bed undefiled - Every man cleaving to his own wife, and every wife cleaving to her own husband, because God will judge, i.e. punish, all fornicators and adulterers. Instead of δε but, γαρ, for, is the reading of AD*, one other, with the Vulgate, Coptic, and one of the Itala; it more forcibly expresses the reason of the prohibition: Let the bed be undefiled, For whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
is, &c.--Translate, "Let marriage be treated as honorable": as Heb 13:5 also is an exhortation. in all--"in the case of all men": "among all." "To avoid fornication let EVERY MAN have his own wife" (Co1 7:2). Judaism and Gnosticism combined were soon about to throw discredit on marriage. The venerable Paphnutius, in the Council of Nice, quoted this verse for the justification of the married state. If one does not himself marry, he should not prevent others from doing so. Others, especially Romanists, translate, "in all things," as in Heb 13:18. But the warning being against lasciviousness, the contrast to "whoremongers and adulterers" in the parallel clause, requires the "in all" in this clause to refer to persons. the bed undefiled--Translate, as Greek requires "undefiled" to be a predicate, not an epithet, "And let the bed be undefiled." God will judge--Most whoremongers escape the notice of human tribunals; but God takes particular cognizance of those whom man does not punish. Gay immoralities will then be regarded in a very different light from what they are now.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Marriage is honourable in all,.... Some read these words as an exhortation, "let" it "be so"; others as an assertion, it is so. "Marriage" is the union of one man and one woman in wedlock, whereby they become one flesh; it is a joining together of male and female in this relation, and of two only, and of such as are not within the degrees of blood forbid by the law, Lev 18:6 and of such as are fit for marriage: and this is "honourable", as it was instituted by God, and has been honoured with the presence of Christ, Gen 2:22. And it is so in the ends of it, being to procreate children, multiply the earth, build up families, preserve a legitimate offspring, and prevent fornication and all uncleanness; and it is so, when the duties of the relation are performed on both sides: and it is honourable "in all"; in all things, in all respects, upon all accounts; "every way", as the Arabic version renders it; or as the Ethiopic version, "everywhere"; it has been honourably esteemed of among all nations; it becomes persons of all ranks and degrees, quality, and order; and it is honourable in all that are lawfully married, and do not violate the marriage contract, or defile the marriage bed: hereby are condemned such who despise marriage, that they may give a loose to their wandering and insatiable lusts; and such who, under a pretence of greater sanctity and perfection, reject it as unlawful; and the Papists, who deny it to men employed in sacred work: and the bed undefiled: the Arabic version reads, "his bed"; and the Syriac and Ethiopic versions, "their bed"; the bed of such whose marriage is honourable; which is not polluted by admitting others into it, or by acts of fornication and adultery: "but", or "for", as the Alexandrian copy reads, whoremongers and adulterers God will judge; the former of these may be rendered "fornicators", as it is by the Vulgate Latin version: fornication is a sin committed by single persons, unmarried ones; and though it was reckoned among the Gentiles a thing indifferent, yet is contrary to the law of God, and is a work of the flesh, and makes unfit for the kingdom of God, and brings down the judgments of God both here and hereafter. And this is in opposition to marriage, which is appointed to prevent it. The sin "adulterers" are guilty of, is a sin committed by persons, who are either one or both in a married state, and so is directly a pollution of the marriage bed: this was punishable with death by the law of God, and light of nature; and though men may make light of it, God will judge and punish such as commit it, both in this life, with diseases, poverty, and disgrace, and in the world to come, at the great day of account; for however secretly it may be committed, God, who is omniscient, sees it, and will bring it into judgment; nor shall any be able to escape the righteous judgment of God, for he is omnipotent, as well as omniscient. The Jews say, "whoever lies with another man's wife, shall not escape "the judgment", or damnation of hell (t)'' (t) T. Bab. Sota. fol. 4. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:4 Give honor to marriage means to protect it and hold it as highly valuable. • Immoral refers to all sexually illicit behavior. • Adultery breaks the marriage vow by engaging in sexual activity outside the marriage relationship.