Cut It Off

 Before we break down this text, let's make it clear that this is metaphorical teaching, not literal. Please do not harm yourself. The idea Jesus is presenting here is for the constant battle for purity and holiness. How far will you go to prevent falling into sin? How much do you hate sin? This comes from the point in the Sermon on the Mount regarding lust, not only through adultery, but even looking at someone with lustful intent. Jesus goes to the extreme with adultery, but also the common through lustful thoughts. Even amongst Christian men and women today, over 54% have admitted to being comfortable with their pornography addictions. If we put this statistic in line with this teaching in Matthew 5, we are in trouble. Not only are over 54% addicted, but are numb to the sin they are constantly living in. What are we supposed to do? How do we break free from these chains? Take action.

The idea that Jesus is presenting here is that fighting sin takes action, setting boundaries, and killing the sin at the source. Paul says, “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:15-16). The way we spend our time and the boundaries we set is a response to the work that Christ did on our behalf. We will be given strength to fight back against the desires of the flesh. If you are struggling, don’t stop fighting. Bring it to the light, expose it. Don’t give it power over you. Christ has defeated it.

Respond with any questions, encouragement, or prayer requests

In Christ,

Josh Hernandez