How does Matthew 5:28 redefine the concept of adultery in our hearts? Setting the Lens of the Sermon on the Mount Matthew 5 opens with Jesus clarifying the original intent behind God’s commands, calling His followers to a righteousness that flows from the inside out (v. 20). In this context, He re-examines the command against adultery and brings it into the realm of the heart. What Jesus Actually Said “ ‘But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.’ ” (Matthew 5:28) From External Act to Internal Attitude • Exodus 20:14 prohibits the physical act; Jesus addresses the inward motive. • The heart—seat of thoughts and desires—now becomes the battleground (Proverbs 4:23). • Sin is traced to its conception stage, before any outward behavior (James 1:14-15). Why This Redefinition Matters • It affirms God’s holiness: He sees not only deeds but intentions (1 Samuel 16:7). • It levels the playing field: none can claim innocence based merely on external fidelity (Romans 3:23). • It exposes hidden idolatries: misplaced affections that challenge devotion to God (Ezekiel 14:3). Guarding the Eye Gate • Jesus pinpoints the look that cultivates lust—an intentional gaze, not a passing notice (Job 31:1). • The eye feeds the imagination; unchecked, imagination fuels sinful desire (Proverbs 6:25). • Taking every thought captive (2 Corinthians 10:5) cuts sin’s supply line at its source. Practical Steps Toward Heart Purity • Saturate the mind with what is “worthy of praise” (Philippians 4:8). • Flee—not flirt with—sexual temptation (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). • Establish accountability: transparent relationships that lovingly confront and encourage (Hebrews 3:13). • Set wise digital and visual boundaries; remove triggers that spark lust (Psalm 101:3). • Cultivate the Spirit’s fruit of self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). The Promise of a New Heart • Christ’s standard reveals our need for His cleansing (Psalm 51:10). • Through the new covenant, He writes His law on our hearts (Jeremiah 31:33). • By grace, believers enjoy both forgiveness for past failure and power for present obedience (Titus 2:11-12). Living Out the Redefined Standard The call is not merely to avoid crossing a moral line but to cherish purity, honor marriage (Hebrews 13:4), and reflect God’s character in thought and deed. Inward righteousness, made possible by the indwelling Spirit, fulfills the heart-level fidelity Jesus describes in Matthew 5:28. |
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