Part 6: Why Teaching the Ten Commandments in Public Schools is So important, (the 7th Commandment, “Thou Shall Not Commit Adultry.”) 

Pastor Bruce: Howard, we have introduced you to our audience before, but for those who do not yet know you, Howard is the author of the Amazon Best Selling book, The Spiritual Meaning of Scripture. He has advanced degrees in psychology and business management, has over 25 years of teaching experience as a California Community College instructor and as a senior adjunct graduate faculty member at California Lutheran University. He is also a very accomplished business owner providing custom-made vehicles to some of the world’s most important and best-known people.

Now Howard, let’s explore Why teaching Biblical concepts in Public Schools is so Important.

Howard B. Becker: Sure, and thank you Pastor Bruce.

During our prior podcasts we’ve discussed how teaching the Ten Commandments in public schools offers our students a unique opportunity to explore Principles that greatly affect their mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. We also discussed how these timeless concepts affect the wellbeing of our entire secular society.

We reviewed an article titled; “Pious Pupils in America Perform Better” published in the August 25th issue of The Economist magazine. This article describes the advantages that a religious background provides public school students in America. And although this article voices several points of view about teaching religion in public schools, it reports:
“Amid the arguments, one thing that tends to be overlooked is the evidence of religion’s impact on performance.

Research shows that religious pupils do better in schools. Pious pupils have higher grades, better attendance level and complete more years of college.”

So, Pastor Bruce, as I’ve mentioned before, I think almost everyone can agree that higher grades, better class attendance and more years of college generally result in improved standards of living and stronger communities. These accomplishments provide many benefits to the secular world around us.

For those unfamiliar with The Economist, it’s a British magazine. It has been published since 1843, and according to Wikipedia it has a weekly subscription of over 1.5 million readers. It is very much based on discussing secular issues of national and international importance.

Their article on Pious Pupils in America goes on to report:
“Studies find that the more religious children drink and use alcohol and drugs less and have fewer sexual partners than their peers.”

I think most of us would also agree that reducing drug and alcohol abuse, and sexual promiscuity among our students will offer important benefits to our society, acting to build a healthier, less risky, and more stable nation.

So, the cumulative results of teaching concepts based upon the Ten Commandments will act to provide positive and lasting benefits among our public-school students… while greatly benefiting our American secular society. It’s an undeniable move in the right direction.

What do you think Pastor Bruce?

Pastor Bruce: 1. So, Howard, you’re not suggesting that we attempt to establish a particular religion in public schools, but rather develop a curriculum that explores concepts based upon the Ten Commandments as they relate to what best serves their individual and collective wellbeing.

Howard B. Becker: That’s right Pastor Bruce. I’m suggesting that we develop a public-school curriculum that promotes the individual and societal benefits that teaching concepts based upon the Ten Commandments offers our students. This approach will keep us within the bounds of the First Amendment of our Constitution, which begins “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech.” It also will keep us within the Supreme Court rulings that require all laws to have a “secular legislative purpose.”

It would be a great shame to lose our right to teach these timeless Principles in public schools by being over-zealous in our support for any, one, particular, religion.

We must keep in mind that people fleeing religious persecution formed the basis for the First Amendment of our Constitution in the first place. Freedom of religious belief and freedom of speech are fundamental to our American Dream.

Rather, by using the Ten Commandments we are employing timeless concepts that are fundamental to religions of all faiths, including Judaism, Christianity and Islam alike. These concepts also form the foundations of all ethical and moral civilizations.

Therefore, the Ten Commandments are perfectly appropriate for teaching our students concepts that serve their mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. The concepts embodied in the Ten Commandments also serve the wellbeing of our entire secular society.

What do you think about this approach Pastor Bruce?

Pastor Bruce: 2. This makes a lot of sense to me Howard. And although, as a Christian Pastor I would love nothing better than to teach the tenants of Christianity in public schools, I respect our Constitution.
As an American I understand why we need to stay within the bounds of the First Amendment.

I’ve said before, I’ve also got a feeling that teaching the Ten Commandments in public schools will plant seeds in the minds and hearts of our students, and as they mature those seeds may very well serve for the good of their mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. That’s a very worthy cause. And this curriculum may also inspire students to seek more information about the Bible, and I can only imagine where that might lead them!

Howard B. Becker: Agreed Pastor Bruce. And as we’ve stated throughout this series, this is our mission here. Let’s plant those seeds, let’s nourish them, and let’s help them grow in the minds and hearts of our public-school students. This curriculum will give them the tools they need as they navigate through this complex and confusing world of ours. Our society will be much better off than if we choose not to address these invaluable concepts at all!

And, I wouldn’t be surprised for a moment if these seeds grow into something much more substantial, opening inquisitive minds and hearts to cultivate these concepts further, and of their own accord.

What might come into fruition from this study may one day become something we will all be able to call truly “Marvelous in our eyes.”

Pastor Bruce: 3. Amen, brother Howard

Howard B. Becker: So now Pastor Bruce we have arrived at the 7th Commandment, “Thou Shalt Not Commit Adultery.”
To begin, I suggest that teachers ask their students these questions.
Why do people get married?
For Love?
For Sexuality?
For Family?
For Children?
For Support?
For Happiness?
For Fulfillment?
For all the above?

These questions are likely to provoke some very lively discussions about the value and importance of marriage,
Don’t you think so Pastor Bruce?

Pastor Bruce: 4. Yes, these questions lead to deep reflection on why God ordained marriage. Marriage isn't just about personal happiness—it mirrors Christ’s relationship with His Church. Adultery distorts that picture, replacing commitment with selfishness. When we view marriage through God's lens, we see its true purpose: love, faithfulness, and building a godly legacy. The scripture in Ephesians 5:25 says: “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.” – Ephesians 5:25

Howard B. Becker: Thanks for that perspective, Pastor Bruce.

Next, I would like to suggest that teachers ask their students these questions:
What is the meaning of “I do” in a physical wedding ceremony?

Does it constitute a promise between two people to love their spouse as they would wish to be loved, themselves?

Is it a Covenant, uniting both husband and wife together as one, as they go forward, hand in hand, and step by step in life?

Is it a commitment that pledges the integrity and fidelity of their mind, heart and soul to one another?

I’ll bet students are enthusiast about supporting the affirmative to these questions!

Don’t you think so Pastor Bruce?

Pastor Bruce: 5. Absolutely! I do believe the answers to those questions could be very lively. My thoughts on this are that the phrase *"I do"* is more than just words—it’s a solemn vow before God and man. Marriage is not just a promise but a covenant, a sacred bond reflecting Christ’s love for the Church. This commitment demands integrity of heart, mind, and soul, forsaking all others. Adultery breaks this divine trust, but faithfulness preserves it.

Howard B. Becker: Well said!

Now, please allow me to flip the script.

At this point I would like to suggest that teachers address the harm that adulty inflicts upon the relationship between a husband and wife by asking the following questions:

Does adulty harm the trust and love a husband and wife have for one another?
Does it harm the happiness and fulfillment they have shared together?
Does it harm their mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing?
Does it harm their sexual relationship?
Does it harm their family relationships?
Does it harm the mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of their children?
With children, can that harm cause insecurity, anxiety, resentment, anger, self-blame, and depression? Do these injuries often perpetuate themselves for generations to come?
Do these many harmful effects damage the secular world around us?

These questions may lead to some very impactful discussions, don’t you think so Pastor Bruce?

Pastor Bruce: 6. Indeed, these discussions will reveal how adultery inflicts suffering far beyond the couple involved. It destroys trust, disrupts families, and damages mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Even society feels the effects, as broken homes lead to broken communities. God calls us to faithfulness, not just for our own sake but for the sake of future generations.

Howard B. Becker: Agreed! And what’s more, your comments apply across the board, regardless of a student’s religious orientation, or if they are religious or not. It encourages students to think deeply about the importance of keeping fidelity in marriage, for their Good and for the Good of all around them. These considerations serve a vital secular purpose.

And so now I would like to alert teachers to the fact that this discussion may bring out wounds students have already suffered from the harm adultery has caused within their own families. That harm can be both painful and embarrassing. And so, I would caution teachers to keep this discussion general in nature, as opposed to personal.

And although this discussion may be painful for some students, it may be healing to those in need of realizing that they are not alone.

School counselors are often available in public school settings….and for students who need to privately discuss their personal anguish with a skilled professional, the sooner the better is usually a good rule of thumb. They may not have others that they can easily turn to for discussions like these.

What do you think Pastor Bruce?

Pastor Bruce: 7. Absolutely! Howard, Scripture says in Psalm 147:3: “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” Many students may feel ashamed or isolated because of their family's brokenness. A compassionate, general discussion allows them to process their pain without feeling exposed. Encouraging wise counsel is key. Most importantly, they need to know that God offers healing, love, and a future not defined by past hurts.

Howard B. Becker: Terrific thoughts Pastor Bruce.

Now, I’d like to flip the script once again. I’d like to suggest that teachers move forward by asking these questions:
Is a marriage both an event and a journey?
Does a sound marriage have many stages of joy and difficulties?
What does it take for a couple to keep the fidelity of their marriage sound?
Does it require dedicated self-sacrifice and discipline while overcoming personal pride and selfishness?
Does that take work on the part of both husband and wife?
Does that work help change both husband and wife for the better?
If both husband and wife honestly, sincerely and humbly work together to honor their wedding vows, are they likely to grow in love, happiness and fulfillment from a life well lived?
Does fidelity in a marriage serve the mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of their children?
Does keeping fidelity in a marriage serve the wellbeing of our entire secular society?
These questions may also lead to some very impactful classroom discussions!

What do think about all this Pastor Bruce?


Pastor Bruce: 8. Howard, I believe our classrooms need impactful classroom discussions. When I was attending public school, which was just a few years ago - I don’t remember lively classroom discussions like you’re suggesting. If I had, it very well could have changed my life for the better. I believe that Marriage requires effort from both partners—love, faithfulness, and humility are essential. When a couple fights for their marriage instead of against each other, they grow in love and wisdom. This stability blesses their children and influences the world around them. A strong marriage isn’t just personal—it’s foundational to a thriving society.

Howard B. Becker: I second that motion!

Pastor Bruce, here's one of my favorite Old Testament Bible passages from Psalm 85:10. It celebrates the effects of keeping the fidelity of this 7th Commandment sacred in life. I think students will enjoy discussing the implications of this Message!

“Mercy and Truth are met together; Righteousness and Peace have kissed each other.”

Pastor Bruce: 9. Amen brother Howard!

Howard B. Becker: And so now I’d like to suggest that teachers discuss the effects that adultery has upon the adulterer themselves: They might begin by asking these questions:

Does adultery cause harm to the mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing of the adulterer themselves?
Does it act to destroy the adulterer’s own integrity and strength of character?
Can that loss of character lead to more of the same, including breaking promises made to friends, business associates and societal relationships?

Does breaking promises to others adulterate the trust and Goodwill that exists between people?
Does that adulteration undermine the soundness of our secular society?
Does an adulterer think that their infidelity and broken promises will ever be discovered?

Here’s a very relevant Old Testament Bible verse a teacher may wish to share with their students:
“The eye of the adulterer waiteth for the twilight, saying, No eye shall see me: and disguiseth his face.” - Job 24:15

Considering the harm an adulterer causes to their spouse, to their children, to themselves, and to all around them, a teacher might then ask this question:

“Who do they think their kidding?”

What do you think Pastor Bruce?

Pastor Bruce: 10. Absolutely! Adultery isn’t just betrayal; it’s self-destruction. It chips away at a person’s integrity, making dishonesty easier in all relationships. The weight of guilt and secrecy leads to anxiety and fear, often destroying peace of mind. No one gets away with sin forever—God’s justice prevails.

Howard B. Becker: Pastor Bruce, I realize these are tough topics for classroom discussion, whether students are religious or not. However, for their benefit and for the benefit of the secular world around us, I strongly believe these topics should be openly discussed in public-school education.

In many cases, this may be the only place where students will be able to discuss these subjects with this depth and perspective. It will give them the opportunity to reflect on the importance of keeping fidelity in the promises they make to others as they emerge into adults within our society. Most especially it will give them the opportunity to reflect on the importance of keeping marital fidelity.

Ok, so now let’s turn to a much happier note. Here, I suggest that a teacher continues this discussion by listing some of the positives that a sound marriage yields in life, by asking their students these questions:

What are the benefits of maintaining fidelity between husbands and wives?
Do they include prospering in trust and love?
What benefits come from nurturing lasting companionship and Friendship between married couples?

Do they include Intimacy, family bonding, and mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing?
Do they include Joy and fulfillment from a life well lived?
Is there anything else that can replace the internal benefits that a sound marriage offers us?

Is there anything else that can provide the mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing that a sound marriage provides to children?
Is there anything else that can provide the Good that a sound marriage offers to our entire secular society?
Is keeping this 7th Commandment in our best interests, and in the best interests of all those around us?

Do you think this is why Jesus so clearly proclaimed in Matthew 19:7:
“What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”

What are your thoughts here Pastor Bruce?

Pastor Bruce: 11. Howard, I have to agree that a teacher should ask their students to list some of the benefits that a sound marriage yields in life. Furthermore, teaching young people the value of marital fidelity shapes stronger families and a healthier society. A sound marriage is a source of deep companionship, trust, and joy that no worldly substitute can replace. Fidelity strengthens love, builds legacy, and provides security for children. The 7th Commandment isn’t about restriction—it’s about safeguarding the greatest blessings in life.

Howard B. Becker: I couldn’t agree more with you Pastor Bruce.

And I think we can all agree that keeping the fidelity of our marriage sacred brings forth something much deeper, richer and fulfilling within our lives than anything that we will ever be able to create on our own. All the glory of Solomon’s riches don’t hold a candle to the value these incomparable blessings yield. And, if I remember correctly, wasn’t it Solomon’s own infidelity that brought him down from his lofty perch?

Now this also reminds me of the very first Miracle that Jesus performed during His Advent into our world. As described in John 3:9, during the Wedding ceremony in Galilee, this is where He took common knowledge about the joy of marriage and turned it into an understanding that is much deeper, richer and fulfilling than anything that we are able to create on our own.

“When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the Bridegroom.”

Pastor Bruce, you’ve so aptly reminded us of the marriage between Christ and His Church during this podcast. Spiritually, that union is also described in the Bible as the marriage between the Bridegroom and His Bride. And so, as we have all been invited to attend that sacred wedding ceremony, let us each inquire from the Bridegroom about how we may continue to receive a deeper spiritual understanding about the incomparable importance of keeping the fidelity of our marriage vows sacred. The Truth of that understanding yields Goodness within our lives, and when tended, yield invaluable benefits for our entire secular society for generations to come.

And so now, once again, I’d like to encourage all of us to work together to plant these seeds of understanding about the meaning and implications of the Ten Commandments among our public-school students. For many students, it may be a welcome reinforcement of what they have been taught since childhood. For many others it may be the only place where they will be able to discuss these ancient and timeless concepts in a setting that allows them to honestly and sincerely express their thoughts and feelings about them.

All of this presents a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about Principles that greatly affect their mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing. We should never treat that Opportunity lightly for it affects the current and future wellbeing of our entire secular society.

Pastor Bruce, I think we can all agree that public school teachers are some of the most passionate and compassionate people in our country. When it comes to promoting their students’ well-being, they are deeply committed to bringing out the very best in them.  

Allowing our public-school teachers to use their passion and compassion to reach the minds and hearts of our public-school students through discussion based upon the Ten Commandments fits perfectly with their heartfelt mission. Allowing them to do so without violating the First Amendment of our Constitution is crucial for maintaining this invaluable curriculum.

Pastor Bruce: 12. Thank you for expressing these insights with us today, Howard. Some of your suggested classroom discussions may seem uncomfortable, but at the same time they will inspire introspection along with good reasoning among our students as they begin to enter society as adults.

Whether as parents, public school administrators, or just simply as taxpayers, we have the responsibility of giving them the tools they need to achieve success and fulfillment in all aspects of their lives. What that success and fulfillment offers for the wellbeing of our entire secular society cannot be overstated.

Howard’s approach to teaching the Ten Commandments stays within the bounds of the First Amendment of our Constitution. Therefore, teaching these timeless concepts in the manner he’s suggested should help all concerned, while offending none.

For those who want to move deeper into these ideas, Howard’s book, The Spiritual Meaning of Scripture, offers a great place to start. You can find it on Amazon, Barnes and Noble or at your favorite bookstore.

His website, TheSpiritualMeaningofSpriture.com offers innumerable background details, contains revealing blogs, and additional podcast interviews about the incomparable benefits of teaching the Ten Commandments in public schools. It also provides a free download of the first two chapters of his book. You will find a wealth of valuable information there.

I'm excited about continuing this conversation on teaching the Ten Commandments in public schools!

Dear audience, you do not want to miss listening to this entire series!

Howard B. Becker: Pastor Bruce, I’d like to mention one last thing before we end today’s podcast;
For those who don’t yet know him, Dr. Bruce Oliver is the founder and director of Bruce Oliver Ministries. He is the popular host of Talks For Christ - formerly Abundant Living Podcasts. Bruce has pastored churches from Texas to Georgia, his experience is vast, and his ministry is truly inspiring. Pastor Bruce, thank you for all you do!