The Fire of Lust That Destroys Faith – Matthew 5:27-30
Pastor Tan Thai · Oct 23, 2011
This sermon expounds Jesus's teaching on adultery in Matthew 5:27-30, emphasizing that sin begins with lustful intent in the heart rather than only outward action. Through the contrasting examples of Joseph and David, the pastor highlights the serious consequences of nurturing lust, while offering practical guidance for self-discipline and family protection.
The sermon opens by highlighting the importance of sight among the five human senses, then connects it to humanity's first sin in Genesis 3. Eve saw that the fruit was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and her gaze led to desire and disobedience. The pastor affirms that marriage is the only God-ordained context for sexual relations, and that the seventh commandment 'Do not commit adultery' protects that sacred relationship.
The central portion of the sermon contrasts two biblical figures: Joseph and David. Joseph, though continuously tempted by Potiphar's wife, chose to flee and preserve his purity. David, by contrast, lingered to watch Bathsheba bathing, allowed lust to take hold, and then committed both adultery and murder. The consequences devastated his royal household for generations. The pastor also cites contemporary realities — a multi-billion-dollar pornographic film industry and the widespread accessibility of online pornography — to illustrate that the fire of lust is never satisfied.
The pastor explains Jesus's teaching that looking at another person with lustful intent already constitutes adultery in the heart, without any physical act being necessary. This reflects God's absolute standard, which differs from human law that only punishes outward actions. Paul is also quoted from 1 Corinthians 6:18 and 7:2-5 to underscore that sexual immorality sins against one's own body, and that marriage is God's provision to guard against this sin.
The practical application section includes specific counsel: parents should teach their children about sexuality at the appropriate age, should not allow children to use internet-connected devices alone in private rooms, and must model godly behavior. Sisters in the church are encouraged to dress modestly so as not to cause weaker brothers and sisters to stumble, in keeping with the love principle of Romans 14. Young people are advised to seek accountability partners and to pray together.
The sermon concludes by interpreting the images of 'plucking out the eye' and 'cutting off the hand' in Matthew 5:29-30 not literally but as a call to serious self-discipline. The pastor suggests that rather than merely building a dam against lust, believers should redirect their energy into healthy channels such as exercise, reading, and wholesome activities. Sexuality is not something shameful but a gift God designed for husband and wife within marriage, to be honored and properly protected.