Matthew 5:27-30 | Go to War with Lust
Feb 26, 2023 • Rick Hardison
How seriously should Christians take the battle against lust? In Matthew 5:27–30, Jesus moves beyond outward adultery to expose the desires of the heart, calling His followers to pursue purity with urgency. This sermon challenges us to recognize the seriousness of lust, take responsibility for our own desires, examine the relational and heart-level issues that may fuel temptation, and establish radical safeguards when necessary. Jesus’ command to “tear out” an eye or “cut off” a hand emphasizes that fighting sin may require costly sacrifices and significant inconvenience. Yet the call to purity is ultimately for our good. And for those burdened by guilt and shame, there is grace: Jesus has purchased His people with His own blood.