What is required in the seventh commandment?
The seventh commandment requireth the preservation of our own and our neighbour’s chastity, in heart, speech, and behavior.
Proofs
- The seventh commandment requireth the preservation of our own and our neighbour’s chastity, in heart, speech, and behavior. (1 Corinthians 7:2–3, 5, 34, 36; Colossians 4:6; 1 Peter 3:2)
Additional Exposition
Section 1
Is it our duty to keep our bodies pure?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: We must possess our vessels in sanctification and honour, and not in the lust of concupiscence, (1 Thessalonians 4:4)
Should our thoughts be chaste?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: Lust not after her beauty in thine heart, (Proverbs 6:25)
And in words?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, (Ephesians 4:29)
And our behaviour?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: Having a chaste conversation coupled with fear, (1 Peter 3:2)
Should we be careful of our own chastity?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: We must cleanse ourselves from all filthiness both of flesh and spirit, (2 Corinthians 7:1)
And of that of others?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: And it came to pass as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he harkened not unto her to lie by her, (Genesis 39:10)
Practical response
Should we for this purpose keep a strict watch over our senses?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: I made a covenant with mine eyes, (Job 31:1)
And study the rules of sobriety and temperance?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: I keep under my body and bring it into subjection, (1 Corinthians 9:27)
And addict ourselves to some lawful calling?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: Thus Joseph went into the house to do his business, (Genesis 39:11)
And avoid loose and wanton company?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: Come not nigh the door of her house, (Proverbs 5:8)
And if other means prove ineffectual should we marry?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: If they cannot contain let them marry, (1 Corinthians 7:9)
Is it therefore a sin in the papists to forbid marriage to the clergy?
Answer: Yes.
Proof: Forbidding to marry, (1 Timothy 4:3)