Matthew 5:27-30
Reflect
Here, Jesus addresses the importance of purity in relation to our sexuality. Jesus speaks not only to actions, but to thoughts and desires. Jesus challenges all people to take captive every thought, every glance, every online search, and perhaps more so the avoidable second look or mouse click. Jesus speaks using vivid models to capture our attention, revealing of the seriousness with which we are to guard ourselves from letting the seeds of lust take root in our lives. Jesus uses strong illustrations to point out how wandering eyes or “seemingly harmless” sexual thoughts will weaken our defenses and embolden us to step closer to a line we believe we would never cross.
In Genesis 4 the Lord speaks to Cain and warns him that “sin is crouching at your door, it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.” Here, Jesus gives a similar warning about the dangers of what lingers on the other side of our lines of defense and the increasing gravitational pull it exerts, the closer we get to it. Jesus uses metaphors that may seem extreme; however, they cause us to take seriously the gravity of, and the need to protect our lives against the destructive consequences of sexual sin.
Apply
As we reflect on these verses, let us cultivate self-awareness and a commitment to purity beginning with our inner thoughts and imaginations as well as outward actions.
Pastor Mike
Pray
- Pray for our Senior Lead Team Pastor, Lyle Buyer, his ministry, and family.
- Pray for our Church Board members: Beth Cheung, Gerhard Hiob, Hal Reirson, JD Kliewer, Mary Jetha, Mike Ross, Randy Voss, Seth Jansen, Trevor Toews, Uwem Okome.
- Pray for our Custodians, Adit Gamble, Stan Goodnough and Anne King; Facilities Manager, Joe Richards.