The Life and Ministry of Jesus
“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Matthew 5:27–28
In understanding what Jesus means, first let us see what he does not mean. Jesus does not mean it is wrong to look at a woman admiringly, but it is wrong to do so lustfully. He does not forbid the natural, normal attraction that is part of our humanity. What he forbids is deep-seated lust that consumes the inner person.
A. B. Bruce writes, “The look is not casual but persistent, the desire not involuntary or momentary, but cherished.” It is not the first glance that is sin, but the second that swells with lust and feeds upon the subject. The use of the aorist tense conveys that the person has already committed adultery with the woman. It is an accomplished, irreversible fact. This occurs in his heart, in the essence of his being. As Robert Guelich says, “Jesus categorically declares that the lustful desire to have another’s wife incriminates one’s very person.” Mental infidelity leaves one completely guilty. 1
Personal Encouragement
Two sinners are involved. The one who lust and the one who intentionally causes the lusting. Both are guilty and both need to repent and turn away from such habits.
Do not lust after her beauty in your heart, Nor let her allure you with her eyelids. Proverbs 6:25
An immoral line is usually crossed before most are willing to admit it.
A Prayer
Lord, cleanse my heart and make me new again.
1. Hughes, R. K. (2001). The sermon on the mount: the message of the kingdom. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
