Matthew 5:28 is a powerful reminder that true righteousness starts in the heart. In this verse, Jesus teaches that looking at someone with lustful intent is equivalent to committing adultery in the heart, highlighting how sin isn’t just about actions—it’s also about our inner thoughts and desires. This was a radical shift from the external focus of the Old Testament Law to an internal call for purity. Jesus wasn’t adding weight to the law but revealing its deeper purpose: to shape our hearts, not just our habits.
This teaching also elevates the dignity and value of others, calling us to see people not as objects of desire but as individuals made in God’s image. In a world flooded with images and messages that normalize lust, Matthew 5:28 invites us to a higher standard—one of intentionality, self-control, and respect. Keep reading for a deeper dive into how you can apply this teaching in today’s culture and build a life marked by purity, honor, and spiritual maturity.
When it comes to understanding biblical teachings, every verse holds significant meaning. One such verse is Matthew 5:28. This verse is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, a collection of teachings that cover a broad range of moral and ethical issues. In Matthew 5:28, Jesus says:
“But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.”
This verse is direct and addresses the intentions and thoughts that lead to sinful actions. Let’s dive deeper into its meaning, implications, and how it applies to our lives today.
Context of Matthew 5:28
The Sermon on the Mount
The Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew chapters 5-7, is one of Jesus’ most famous teachings. It addresses a wide array of topics, including the Beatitudes, the Lord’s Prayer, and various moral teachings. Matthew 5:28 is part of a section where Jesus reinterprets the Law of Moses, pushing beyond mere outward compliance to a deeper, heart-level obedience.
Adultery in the Heart
In Matthew 5:27, Jesus references the Old Testament commandment against adultery:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’”
Immediately after, in verse 28, He takes it a step further by emphasizing the importance of inner purity. Jesus teaches that the act of adultery isn’t limited to physical infidelity but includes lustful thoughts and desires. This was a radical teaching at the time, as it highlighted the importance of internal attitudes, not just external actions.
Breaking Down Matthew 5:28
“But I tell you”
Jesus often started His teachings with “But I tell you” to signal a deeper or expanded interpretation of the Law. He wasn’t contradicting the Old Testament but was fulfilling and deepening its meaning (Matthew 5:17).
“Anyone who looks at a woman lustfully”
Here, Jesus speaks directly about the act of looking with lust. The Greek word for “looks” (blepo) implies a deliberate and continuous gaze, not a fleeting glance. Lustful intent means viewing someone as an object for personal gratification rather than respecting them as a person.
“Has already committed adultery with her in his heart”
Jesus underscores that sin starts in the heart. The phrase “in his heart” indicates the inner realm where thoughts and intentions form. According to Jesus, cultivating lustful thoughts is equivalent to committing adultery because it reflects a corrupted heart.
Implications of Matthew 5:28
The Heart of the Matter
Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:28 shifts the focus from merely avoiding sinful actions to maintaining purity of heart. Proverbs 4:23 says,
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
Our thoughts and attitudes influence our actions. By addressing the root of sin, Jesus calls us to a higher standard of holiness.
Personal Responsibility
This verse emphasizes personal responsibility for our thoughts. In a world saturated with sexual imagery, controlling our thoughts requires intentional effort and reliance on God. Philippians 4:8 advises us to focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.
Respect and Dignity
By condemning lustful looks, Jesus promotes the respect and dignity of others. Treating people as objects of desire devalues them. We’re called to view others with love and respect, recognizing their inherent worth as God’s creation.
Applying Matthew 5:28 Today
Guarding Your Mind
In a digital age, guarding your mind is more challenging than ever. With easy access to explicit content, it’s crucial to set boundaries. This might mean avoiding certain websites, using accountability software, or filling your mind with Scripture and wholesome content.
Practical Steps
- Be Aware: Recognize situations that trigger lustful thoughts and avoid them.
- Stay Accountable: Share your struggles with a trusted friend or mentor who can support and pray for you.
- Renew Your Mind: Spend time in God’s Word daily. Romans 12:2 encourages us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
- Pray: Ask God for strength to overcome temptations and for a pure heart.
Relationships and Respect
In relationships, aim for purity and respect. This means treating your partner with honor and valuing their well-being above selfish desires. For singles, this involves respecting others and maintaining boundaries that honor God.
Cultural Challenges
Our culture often normalizes lust and objectification. As Christians, we’re called to stand against this trend. By living out Jesus’ teachings, we can be a light in a world that often blurs moral lines.
Conclusion
Matthew 5:28 challenges us to examine our hearts and strive for purity in our thoughts and actions. Jesus’ words remind us that true righteousness goes beyond external behavior and into the realm of our inner lives. By guarding our hearts, respecting others, and relying on God’s strength, we can live out the high calling He has set for us.
Remember, Jesus’ teaching isn’t about condemning us but about guiding us toward a fuller, more abundant life. As you navigate the complexities of today’s world, let Matthew 5:28 be a reminder of the importance of inner purity and the call to a higher standard of living.
FAQs: Understanding Matthew 5:28
1. What does Matthew 5:28 say?
Matthew 5:28 states, “But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” This verse highlights that lustful thoughts are as sinful as the act of adultery itself, emphasizing the importance of inner purity.
2. What is the context of Matthew 5:28?
Matthew 5:28 is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, specifically addressing the topic of adultery. Jesus expands on the Old Testament commandment against adultery, teaching that even lustful thoughts violate this commandment.
3. Why does Jesus say “But I tell you”?
Jesus uses “But I tell you” to introduce a deeper interpretation of the Law. He wasn’t contradicting the Old Testament but was fulfilling and expanding its meaning to include inner thoughts and intentions, not just outward actions.
4. What does “looks at a woman lustfully” mean?
“Looks at a woman lustfully” refers to a deliberate and continuous gaze with lustful intent. It’s not about a fleeting glance but an intentional act of viewing someone as an object of desire.
5. What does “committed adultery with her in his heart” mean?
This phrase means that harboring lustful thoughts is equivalent to committing adultery because it reflects a corrupted heart. Jesus emphasizes that sin begins in the heart and our thoughts and intentions matter greatly.
6. How can I guard my mind against lustful thoughts?
Guarding your mind involves being aware of situations that trigger lustful thoughts and avoiding them. Practical steps include staying accountable, renewing your mind with Scripture, setting boundaries, and praying for strength and purity.
7. How does Matthew 5:28 promote respect and dignity?
By condemning lustful looks, Jesus promotes treating others with respect and dignity. Viewing people as objects of desire devalues them, whereas Jesus calls us to see others as valuable and worthy of respect as God’s creation.
8. How can I apply Matthew 5:28 in my relationships?
In relationships, aim for purity and respect. Treat your partner with honor and prioritize their well-being above selfish desires. For singles, maintain boundaries that honor God and respect others’ dignity.
9. What are some cultural challenges related to Matthew 5:28?
Our culture often normalizes lust and objectification, making it challenging to adhere to Jesus’ teachings. As Christians, we’re called to stand against these trends and live out Jesus’ call to inner purity and respect for others.
10. How does Matthew 5:28 relate to overall Christian living?
Matthew 5:28 is a reminder that true righteousness involves inner purity, not just external behavior. By guarding our hearts and relying on God’s strength, we can live according to the high standards Jesus set for us, leading a fuller and more abundant life.
