We’re continuing our study of the Sermon on the Mount, moving to the next prohibition Jesus teaches about. We already looked at the sixth commandment, which deals with murder. Now, we’re focusing on the seventh commandment, which addresses adultery. Let’s dive into the key verses from Matthew 5:27-30:
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. It’s better to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It’s better to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
These words sound intense, don’t they? Is Jesus really telling us to mutilate ourselves? What’s He getting at here? Let’s unpack this. Just like He did with the commandment about murder, Jesus isn’t narrowing the definition of sin—He’s expanding it. With murder, He said that even angry words or hateful thoughts are like murder in the heart. Here, He’s saying that a lustful look or thought is like committing adultery in your heart. It’s not just about the physical act; it’s about what’s going on inside your mind and imagination.
Jesus is talking about sexual sin outside of marriage. But let’s be clear: the Bible doesn’t teach that sex itself is bad. In fact, Scripture celebrates it as a gift from God within marriage. If you’ve read the Song of Solomon, you know it’s a beautiful picture of love and intimacy between a husband and wife.
Since this is a tough topic, especially for guys, I’ll keep it straightforward. The Bible teaches that sex within marriage is more than just physical—it’s a way to express a deep connection of soul and spirit between a husband and wife. That’s why I tell young men that when you’re thinking about dating someone, you shouldn’t just date for fun. You need to ask: Could this person be a lifelong partner? Physical attraction matters—let’s be honest, it’s hard to be in a relationship with someone you’re not drawn to. But there also needs to be a connection in your minds and personalities, what I call a “soul oneness.” Even more important is a spiritual oneness—sharing the same faith in Christ. Dating someone who doesn’t follow Jesus is risky. You might think, “Maybe they’ll become a believer if I date them,” but that’s a dangerous assumption. Too often, emotions take over, and the spiritual side gets ignored. Trust me, I’ve seen it happen, and it can lead to heartbreak.