In Matthew 5:27–30, Jesus continues His exposition on the heart of the Law by addressing the sin of lust. He challenges the common understanding of adultery, moving beyond the physical act to the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Jesus’ teaching underscores the seriousness of inner purity and the radical measures required to guard against sin. This passage is not just about avoiding sin but about cultivating a heart that seeks holiness and honors God in every thought and desire. This essay will explore Jesus’ teaching on lust and purity, its implications for kingdom living, and how believers can apply these principles in their daily lives.
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The Commandment and Its Fulfillment
1. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery’” (Matthew 5:27).
The prohibition against adultery is the seventh commandment, given in Exodus 20:14 and Deuteronomy 5:18. Adultery, as defined in the Law, involved sexual relations with someone other than one’s spouse, violating the sanctity of marriage. This command protected not only the marital bond but also the broader societal structure that depended on the stability of the family unit.
In Jesus’ day, the religious leaders interpreted this command narrowly, focusing solely on the outward act. They prided themselves on their external adherence to the Law while neglecting its deeper moral and spiritual intent. Jesus, however, goes beyond the surface to address the heart of the issue.
2. “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:28).
Here, Jesus reveals the true scope of the commandment. Lust, or sinful desire, is equated with adultery because it stems from the same root: a heart turned away from God. The Greek word for “lustfully” (epithymeō) refers to an intense desire or coveting, highlighting the selfish nature of this sin.
This teaching aligns with the Old Testament’s emphasis on inward purity. Proverbs 6:25 warns, “Do not lust in your heart after her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes.” Job declared, “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman” (Job 31:1). Jesus affirms that God’s standard is not limited to outward actions but includes the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
The Seriousness of Sin
1. Radical Measures to Avoid Sin
Jesus continues, “If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell” (Matthew 5:29–30).
These verses use hyperbolic language to emphasize the seriousness of sin and the lengths to which believers must go to avoid it. Jesus is not advocating literal self-mutilation, as this would not address the root of sin, which lies in the heart. Instead, He calls for radical action to guard against anything that leads to sin. This may involve avoiding situations, influences, or habits that tempt us to sin.
Paul echoes this principle in Colossians 3:5: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry.” Believers are called to take decisive action against sin, recognizing its destructive power.
2. The Consequences of Unchecked Sin
Jesus warns of the eternal consequences of sin, using the imagery of hell (Gehenna). Gehenna, a term derived from the Valley of Hinnom near Jerusalem, was associated with judgment and destruction. This vivid warning underscores the seriousness of unrepentant sin, which separates people from God.
While believers are secure in Christ and cannot lose their salvation (John 10:28–29), this warning highlights the need for genuine repentance and a heart devoted to God. Persistent, unrepentant sin reveals a heart that may not truly belong to Him (1 John 3:6–9). Jesus’ words call His followers to examine their hearts and live in the purity and freedom that comes from His grace.
Purity in the Context of the Kingdom
Jesus’ teaching on lust and purity reflects the values of the kingdom of heaven, which stands in stark contrast to the world’s standards. The kingdom calls for a higher righteousness that transforms not only actions but also desires. This righteousness is not achieved through human effort but through the work of the Holy Spirit, who renews the mind and conforms believers to the image of Christ (Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 3:18).
Marriage, as designed by God, is a covenant relationship that reflects His faithfulness and love (Ephesians 5:31–32). Adultery and lust distort this design, prioritizing selfish desire over covenant faithfulness. By addressing the heart-level sin of lust, Jesus upholds the sanctity of marriage and calls His followers to reflect God’s holiness in their relationships.
Practical Applications for Believers
1. Guarding the Heart and Mind
To guard against lust, believers must cultivate a pure heart and mind. This involves being intentional about what they consume, whether through media, conversations, or environments. Philippians 4:8 provides a guide for godly thinking: “Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Scripture memorization and meditation are powerful tools for renewing the mind. Psalm 119:11 declares, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” By filling their minds with God’s truth, believers can resist temptation and stay focused on His will.
2. Relying on the Holy Spirit
Victory over lust is not achieved through willpower alone but through the power of the Holy Spirit. Galatians 5:16 promises, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” As believers yield to the Spirit’s leading, He empowers them to live in purity and obedience.
3. Pursuing Accountability
Accountability within the body of Christ is essential for spiritual growth. James 5:16 encourages believers to “confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” Trusted friends or mentors can provide encouragement, counsel, and prayer in the fight against temptation.
4. Embracing God’s Grace
For those who have struggled with lust or adultery, Jesus’ teaching offers both conviction and hope. His warning against sin is paired with the promise of forgiveness and restoration for those who repent. As 1 John 1:9 assures us, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” God’s grace not only forgives but also empowers believers to walk in freedom.
The Radical Call to Holiness
Jesus’ teaching on lust and purity reveals the radical nature of kingdom living. While the world excuses or even celebrates lust, the kingdom of heaven calls for holiness in every area of life. This holiness is not about legalistic rule-keeping but about a heart transformed by God’s love and grace. As believers pursue purity, they reflect God’s character and point others to His glory.
By addressing the heart-level sin of lust, Jesus exposes the inadequacy of superficial righteousness and calls His followers to a deeper standard. This standard is not burdensome but life-giving, as it leads to greater intimacy with God and freedom from the bondage of sin.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teaching on lust and purity challenges believers to go beyond external obedience and address the condition of their hearts. Lust, though often dismissed as a private or minor issue, is a serious sin that distorts God’s design for relationships and leads to spiritual harm. Jesus calls His followers to take radical measures to guard against sin and pursue holiness, reflecting the values of the kingdom of heaven.
For Christians today, this passage serves as both a warning and an invitation. It warns against the dangers of unchecked desire and calls for vigilance in guarding the heart. Yet it also offers the hope of forgiveness and transformation through Christ. By relying on God’s grace, walking in the Spirit, and seeking accountability, believers can live in the purity and freedom that honors God and reflects His kingdom.
“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10).
All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
For Further Reference: A Detailed Study on the Entire Sermon on the Mount
