Scripture References: Matthew 5:27-30; Jeremiah 31:31-34; Exodus 20:14, 17
Intro: Welcome to this sermon based on Matthew 5:27-30. Continuing the Sermon on the Mount series, Jesus intensifies the command against adultery, shifting focus from the external act to the internal condition of the heart. (Note: This sermon addresses mature themes.)
Key Points:
- Adultery Begins in the Heart (v. 28): Jesus equates deliberately looking at someone with lustful intent ("staring to fuel desire") with committing adultery internally. He consistently pushes beyond outward behavior to address the root source of sin within our hearts.
- Why Jesus is Intense: Sacredness & Love: His strong stance comes not from prudishness, but from upholding the sacredness of God's "very good" design for sexuality within covenant marriage. Lust objectifies God's image-bearers, fundamentally opposes the kingdom ethic of love, and causes profound damage.
- Radical Action Required (vv. 29-30): The commands to "gouge out" an eye or "cut off" a hand are hyperbole, emphasizing the need for drastic measures against things that lead us into sin. We must be ruthless in removing sources of temptation, even if they seem valuable or essential.
- Addressing the Root Cause: Self-harm isn't the solution because the problem isn't ultimately the eye or hand, but the heart. Jesus diagnoses the root to offer true, internal healing, not just external modification.
- Hope Through the New Covenant (Jer 31): Jesus doesn't leave us condemned by this high standard. God promises a New Covenant, offering forgiveness and the power to change from within by writing His desires onto our hearts through His Spirit.
Conclusion: Jesus calls for a radical purity that starts in the heart, honoring God's design for sexuality and the dignity of others. While His standard exposes our deep need for grace, He provides the means for transformation through the New Covenant.
Call to Action: Honestly allow Jesus' words to examine your heart regarding lust. Confess struggles without shame, embracing His forgiveness. Identify and take decisive, perhaps radical, steps to remove triggers and temptations. Ask God to transform your heart through His Spirit according to the New Covenant promise. Receive His grace and healing.
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The Gospel of Matthew: Jesus & Lust (Matthew 5:27-30)
with Travis Aicklen
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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