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Guarding Against Temptation
Matthew 5:27-30
Jesus’
teaching on adultery is in line with what He already said concerning
murder (Matt. 5:21-22). Both of these sins begin in the heart. In
fact, the heart of man is the beginning point of many sins (Matt.
15:19). To merely refrain from committing the act will not suffice, we
must guard our hearts against unrighteousness. But, how is that to be
done?
Jesus
answers this question saying, “If your right
eye makes you stumble, tear it out and throw it from you; for it is
better for you to lose one of the parts of your body, than for your
whole body to be thrown into hell.” This recommendation sounds extreme
and many believe these words should not be taken literally. Our Lord’s
words here may be hyperbole but, at the same time they are sound
advice. We are to know our strengths and our weaknesses and keep
ourselves away from temptation, no matter the cost.
This may mean avoiding certain places,
activities or even people. Steering clear of temptation may cost us
money, enjoyment or even friendships, but who wouldn’t gladly suffer
these short term losses when the long term pay-off is the security of
our soul’s salvation? Does it really sound extreme to suggest ridding
one’s self of an offending body part if doing so is the only way to
avoid an eternity in hell?
Jesus was not suggesting we blind ourselves
or cut off our hands in an effort to avoid any and all temptations, and
neither am I. But we must be aware that Satan will strike where we are
weakest and we must do whatever is needed to protect ourselves from the
devil’s attacks. James provides the best defense against temptation,
“Submit therefore to God, resist the devil and he will flee from you”
(James 4:7).
Thomas Sneed
Pond Church of Christ
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