Adultery as sexual disorder: An exegetical study of Matthew 5:27–30

Abstract

There is a prevailing notion amongst preachers of the gospel, especially those in the Pentecostal circle, that adultery is a demonic problem. Their understanding of Jesus’ statement in Matthew 5:27–30 about adultery in the heart is that for adultery to happen in an invisible entity such as the heart, some invisible forces (demons) are responsible. This research is an exegetical study of Matthew 5:27–30, employing historical criticism as methodology, to ascertain the correctness of this understanding. The conclusion of this study is that adultery as described and understood in Matthew 5:27–30 is a sexual disorder and not a demonic problem.Contribution: This contribution argues that adultery mentioned in Matthew 5:27–30, contrary to its understanding in Pentecostal circles, is a sexual disorder and not the result of demonic spirits that feed the mind with sexual thoughts.