On Adultery and the "Evil Woman"

It seems like there has been a lot of adultery going on as of late among public male figures. (See Mark Sanford and Tiger Woods) When most people hear the news of these goings-on, public outrage ensues. However, to the Christian, these things should not come as a surprise...especially when it happens to those men in "high" places. The book of Proverbs addresses this topic in depth as a father, Solomon, is writing to his son concerning women that may cause his son, who was of royal lineage, life-altering problems:

"With much seductive speech she persuades him; with her smooth talk she compels him. All at once he follows her, as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a stag is caught fast till an arrow pierces its liver; as a bird rushes into a snare; he does not know that it will cost him his life." (Prov. 7:21-23)

The imagery is clear: The unsuspecting man's ego is built up and he walks right into a trap that costs him his life - and many times he knows its coming! The adulterous act may not cost him his physical life, but it will cost him his "life" - his reputation, his status, and perhaps his ability to be used by God.

Solomon furthers states that his command is a

"lamp and the teaching a light...to preserve you from the evil woman, from the smooth tongue of the adulteress. Do not desire her beauty in your heart, and do not let her capture you with her eyelashes; for the price of a prostitute is only a loaf of bread, but a married woman hunts down a precious life." (6:23-26)

Pastors, and men, everywhere - do not desire flattery from people - especially women - doing so is like taking the first step into a trap.

Solomon further states that adultery is bad enough, but committing it with a married woman (which happens as well - especially in the church) is even worse. He states:

"He who commits adultery lacks sense; he who does it destroys himself...for jealousy makes a man furious, and he will not spare when he takes revenge. He will accept no compensation, he will refuse though you multiply gifts." (6:32, 34-35)

In other words, the husband will come after the man who cheats on his wife. And well he should.

When I was in seminary, Pastor Johnny Hunt of FBC Woodstock, GA, taught a conference aimed at young pastors. Based on some past experiences in ministry he was completely convinced that Satan puts an "adulterous woman" in every church congregation or area of ministry where a man of God is serving.

One point he was convinced that a certain woman was in his congregation and he prayed that if she was indeed there via Satan, that God would remove her. He never saw her again...

That story should serve as a wake-up call to every pastor and church leader. Beware of enticing words from women who may being used by Satan. Sure, you're not the #1 ranked golfer in the world or the governor of a state, but if you are serving God in His church, Satan is lurking - and he is probably lurking in the guise of a beautiful woman.