Scripture

“If your eye – even your good eye – causes you to lust, 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.”

Observation

Jesus takes the commandments and applies them to our thinking and not just our outward appearances.

The Law forbids adultery, but Jesus says if we even look at a woman with lust in our heart, we have already committed adultery. if our eyes causes to sin, we should gouge them out if necessary to avoid hell.

While the law allows for divorce, Jesus says that the only valid reason for divorce is an unfaithful partner.

We must not make a vow. Instead of swearing on something, we should simply say, “Yes” or “No.”

Application

God does not want us to be good just on the outside. He wants to transform our thinking so that the thoughts and desires that lead to sin will not happen.

He warns us of the reality of hell. Those who sin without the forgiveness of God will find themselves in such torment that losing an eye or another body part in order to escape sin seems like a good deal.

Jesus is clearly not advocating self-mutilation as a pathway to holiness. Holiness comes as we constantly commit our minds, hearts, and bodies to the direction of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, i confess that I still sin, at least in my mind. Please cleanse my thoughts and teach me how to submit every part of me to you. Amen.