What Jesus Said About Lust: 5 Things To Learn

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Matthew 5:28 (KJV) says, “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.”  Matthew 5:28, part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, challenges us to examine the condition of our hearts and minds. It goes beyond outward actions and addresses the inner motivations that shape our behavior.

Here are five key lessons  we can draw from Matthew 5:28:

1. Sin Begins in the Heart  

Jesus emphasizes that sin isn’t just about physical actions—it starts in the heart. Lustful thoughts are as sinful as committing adultery because they reflect the same internal rebellion against God’s design for purity. Proverbs 4:23  reminds us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”  Our thoughts and intentions matter deeply to God.

Be vigilant about what you allow into your mind through media, entertainment, or unchecked thoughts. Guarding your heart is essential for spiritual and relational health.

2. God’s Standard Is Holiness, Not Just Outward Compliance  

The Pharisees focused on external obedience to the law, but Jesus calls us to a higher standard—holiness of heart and mind. Adultery isn’t just a physical act; it begins with impure desires. 1 Samuel 16:7  declares, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”  God cares about the purity of our inner lives.

Pursue holiness not just in actions but in attitudes. Regularly ask God to search your heart and reveal areas that need cleansing (Psalm 139:23-24 ).

3. Accountability for Thoughts and Intentions  

This verse makes it clear that we are accountable not only for what we do but also for what we think. Allowing lustful thoughts to take root is equivalent to crossing a boundary God has set. 2 Corinthians 10:5  instructs us to “take every thought captive to obey Christ.”  Our thoughts have power, and unchecked ones can lead to destructive behaviors.

When inappropriate thoughts arise, immediately redirect your focus to things that are pure, noble, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8 ).

4. The Importance of Self-Control  

Lust thrives when self-control is absent. Jesus calls us to exercise discipline over our eyes and minds. Job 31:1  provides an example of intentional self-control: “I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman.”  Choosing where to direct our gaze reflects our commitment to honor God and others.

Set boundaries around what you watch, read, and consume. Cultivate habits that strengthen self-control, such as prayer, fasting, and accountability with trusted friends.

5. A Call to Radical Measures Against Temptation  

In the verses following Matthew 5:28, Jesus urges drastic action if something causes us to stumble: “If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out… If your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off”  (Matthew 5:29-30). While this is hyperbolic language, the point is clear: take radical steps to avoid temptation. Sin has serious consequences, and avoiding it requires decisive action.

Identify triggers or environments that lead to lustful thoughts and remove them from your life. This might mean limiting screen time, installing accountability software, or seeking godly counsel to address deeper struggles.