Reading the Word

Matthew 5:27–30 (ESV) — 27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell.

Understanding and Applying the Word

Jesus’ teaching often corrected the religious hypocrisy of the day. In today’s passage Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.'” The religious leaders of that time and before had taught the letter of the law, but they had failed to understand that the law was supposed to not only address external actions, but heart issues. Jesus corrected this misunderstanding by teaching that the one who lusts has committed adultery in his heart.

Our sinfulness is a serious issue and should be dealt with in a serious way. To point out the seriousness of sin, Jesus said, “If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away.” This was hyperbole, but it makes the point. We need to deal with sin and not let it grow or control us. The consequences of failing to do so are too great. It could result in eternal condemnation.

The Bible tells us that we are all sinners. The good news is that God has done something for us so we can deal with our sin. He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to die for our sin as a sacrifice. We are told that if we repent of our sin and trust in Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf, we will be saved. Sin is a serious issue and we need to deal with it. Have you dealt with your sin? Have you turned to Jesus Christ for forgiveness? Do not fail to deal with your sin while there is still time and before it consumes you.

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