Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature:Lustfulness is characterized by an intense and unrestrained desire, often of a sexual nature. In the biblical context, it is considered a sin that stems from the heart and leads to actions contrary to God's commandments. Lust is often associated with covetousness and idolatry, as it places personal desires above God's will. Biblical References: 1. Old Testament: · Exodus 20:17 · The commandment against coveting includes a prohibition against lusting after a neighbor's spouse, highlighting the sinful nature of desiring what is not rightfully one's own. · Proverbs 6:25 · "Do not lust in your heart after her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes." This verse warns against the dangers of being led astray by physical attraction, emphasizing the importance of guarding one's heart. 2. New Testament: · Matthew 5:28 · Jesus intensifies the understanding of lust by stating, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." This teaching underscores the seriousness of lustful thoughts, equating them with the act of adultery. · 1 John 2:16 · "For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not from the Father but from the world." This passage categorizes lust as part of worldly desires that are opposed to the will of God. Theological Implications: Lust is seen as a manifestation of the sinful nature that all humans inherit. It is a distortion of the good desires God has given, turning them into self-serving and destructive impulses. The Bible teaches that lust leads to spiritual death if not repented of and overcome through the power of the Holy Spirit. Moral and Ethical Teachings: Christians are called to live lives of purity and self-control, resisting the temptations of lust. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently exhorts believers to flee from sexual immorality and to honor God with their bodies (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). The pursuit of holiness involves a conscious effort to renew the mind and align one's desires with God's will (Romans 12:2). Practical Application: Believers are encouraged to cultivate a heart of contentment and gratitude, focusing on the blessings God has provided rather than longing for what is forbidden. Accountability, prayer, and immersion in Scripture are vital tools in combating lustful thoughts and actions. The community of faith plays a crucial role in supporting individuals in their journey toward purity and righteousness. Historical and Cultural Context: In biblical times, as today, lust was a prevalent issue that affected individuals and communities. The cultural norms of the ancient Near East and Greco-Roman world often conflicted with the biblical call to sexual purity, making the teachings of Scripture countercultural and challenging to uphold. The early church fathers and subsequent Christian theologians have consistently taught against lust, emphasizing its destructive impact on both personal and communal levels. Conclusion: While the Bible acknowledges the reality of lust as a common human struggle, it offers hope and redemption through Jesus Christ. By relying on God's grace and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, believers can overcome lust and live in accordance with God's design for human relationships. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (a.) Full of lust; excited by lust.2. (a.) Exciting lust; characterized by lust or sensuality. Greek 1939. epithumia -- desire, passionate longing, lust ... desire, passionate longing, lust NASB Word Usage coveting (2), desire (4), desires (8), earnestly (1), impulses (1), long (1), lust (5), lustful (1), lusts (15 ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1939.htm - 7k 4763. streniao -- to run riot Strong's Hebrew 2154. zimmah -- a plan, device, wickedness... wickedness NASB Word Usage acts of lewdness (1), crime (1), devising (1), evil intent (1), immorality (2), lewd (3), lewdly (1), lewdness (13), lustful crime (1 ... /hebrew/2154.htm - 6k 5690. agab -- (sensuous) love 1432. gadel -- becoming great, growing up 1320. basar -- flesh Library David not Lustful, Though He Fell into Adultery. Vision Second. Again, of his Neglect in Chastising his Talkative ... Whether There Can be Mortal Sin in Touches and Kisses? Whether the Matter of Lust is Only Venereal Desires and Pleasures? Whether the Daughters of Lust are Fittingly Described? Book Four this is the Story of his Years among the Manicheans. ... But if You Come to the Conclusion that These Fables have Been ... Whether the Unnatural vice is a Species of Lust? Whether Six Daughters are Fittingly Assigned to Gluttony? Whether the Matter of Christ's Body Should have Been Taken from a ... Thesaurus Lustful (10 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Lustful (10 Occurrences). ... Mark 7:22 covetings, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, and foolishness. ... /l/lustful.htm - 9k Lewd (37 Occurrences) Lustfully (2 Occurrences) Licentiousness (10 Occurrences) Sensuality (9 Occurrences) Lusteth (6 Occurrences) Neigh (2 Occurrences) Unprincipled (4 Occurrences) Orgies (4 Occurrences) Oppressed (81 Occurrences) Resources How can I get rid of lustful thoughts? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is lasciviousness? | GotQuestions.org Is it ever not a sin to masturbate? | GotQuestions.org Lustful: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Lustful (10 Occurrences)Matthew 5:28 Mark 7:22 Romans 13:13 1 Thessalonians 4:5 2 Peter 2:7 2 Peter 2:18 Job 31:11 Jeremiah 13:27 Ezekiel 16:26 Ezekiel 33:31 Subtopics Related Terms |