Infidelity
Summary
Unfaithfulness or unbelief, whether toward God in matters of faith or toward human relationships in matters of trust.
☩Unbelief Toward God
Infidelity in the theological sense refers to rejection of God's truth or denial of His existence. Scripture characterizes unbelief as willful blindness: 'The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.' Such infidelity provokes divine displeasure, as Israel's unbelief in the wilderness demonstrates.
☩Marital Unfaithfulness
The prophets use marital infidelity as a metaphor for Israel's spiritual adultery in turning to idols. God is portrayed as the faithful husband, Israel as the unfaithful wife who has played the harlot with other gods. This imagery underscores the personal, covenantal nature of relationship with God.
☩Consequences
Both kinds of infidelity bring serious consequences. Spiritual infidelity results in separation from God and eternal judgment. Breaking faith with human covenants destroys trust and brings earthly consequences. God calls His people to faithfulness in all their commitments.
Related Verses72 mentions
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Infidelity," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IV (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).