27. "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' 28. But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29. If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
A Rorschach ink blot test was given to a young man who after seeing each card responded with the same answer. "Those are pictures of naked women.”
Finally, the psychologist said, "It seems that you have a one-track mind.”
He answered," Me? Listen, Doc, you're the one who’s showing all those dirty pictures."
We live in a sexual society. It is impossible to read a secular magazine, watch an evening of television, or walk into stores without being reminded how much sex is used to sell. Conversations at school and work overflow with sexual subjects and off-colored jokes.
We are bombarded on all sides with the pleasure-seeking philosophy of self-gratification. Our world says: “If it feels good do it.” “Everyone is doing it.” You are prudes, Victorian and archaic if you do not realize the changing times.” Many tell themselves the lie that a sexual relationship is all right if you really love the person. Love is the only thing that matters.
Some would say that sexual activities are as normal and healthy as breathing. If God gave you the drive and hunger for food, then it is only normal and healthy to eat food. If God created our bodies to seek to satisfy sexual hunger and desire, we shouldn't restrict ourselves of what is a natural and normal hunger. Man, in that thinking, is nothing more than full of animalistic instincts.
There is also another unhealthy attitude, teaching all sex is shameful and sinful. Nice people do not do it and it is something you should never talk about in public. Perhaps some people are uncomfortable having a week of devotionals on the topic of adultery and sexual purity. However, Jesus addressed this as a sin problem in the Sermon on the Mount. Sexuality is a big part of our thinking and our lives and there are Scriptures that speak to the issues.
As we continue looking at Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks to issues of the heart. We must have a changed heart from the ways of the world. Following strict laws is not enough and Jesus makes that point vivid by contrasting His righteousness with that of the Pharisees. He is addressing the matter of deeper purity.
Sexual attractions can be tempting. Jesus’ warnings are important for His followers.
Prayer: As I seek Your Word, Lord, I pray with David - I have hidden Your Word in my heart, that I might not sin against You. Holy Spirit keep my heart, thoughts and actions pure.
