Lust is a deadly sin in the Bible with a deep spiritual meaning. This concept lies in the space of morality and self control. Lust is not equal to attraction. In contrast, it is perceived by God as deep corruption. In the Bible, many verses showcase that lust is an extreme desire. Christian scholars believe that it has serious consequences on a spiritual level. Aside from actions, the sin of lust is also counted in thoughts and bad intentions. Being one of the deadly sins, you can find several Bible verses warning you against lust. Stay tuned to learn about “What is lust in the Bible”? and more.
What Is Lust In The Bible?
The Biblical definition of lust is basically a sinful desire that’s hard to control for humanity. You can understand it as sexual immorality against others. The sin of lust also spans across desire for power, wealth, and other materialistic things. According to the Bible, lust originates from your heart as well as your mind.
The inappropriate behaviour is just the starting stage of this sin. Then it corrupts your thoughts and soul. In the original languages, lust is termed as Epithymia (Greek) and Ta’avah (Hebrew). It is counted among the immoral and negative thoughts. For humanity, it is directly against the will of God and defies your obedience towards him.
In Matthew 5:28, Jesus said, “Anyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” Accordingly, the sin of lust is not limited to physical actions, as it is also in your heart. Further, you’ll learn how sin is different from natural and controlled desire.
Differences Between Lust & Natural Desire
The comparison of Lust vs Natural Desire shows extreme differences. Lust is sinful in the Bible, whereas having natural desires does not carry harsh spiritual consequences. As has been noted, the sin of lust is extreme sexual and materialistic desires. From thoughts to physical action, this sin includes everything. Natural desires are healthy and not sinful.
God has given us these natural desires, but having uncontrolled and extreme ones is not allowed. In Christianity, people should have love and sexual relations only in marriage. Lust provokes selfishness and excessive immorality. The Bible simply doesn’t allow distorted and evil lust. It also consists of wanting too many materialistic things. Humanity shouldn’t misuse its freedom to desire different things.
Why Is Lust A Deadly Sin In Christianity?
All of the reasons behind lust being a deadly sin according to the Bible are mentioned below:
- Lust is the root cause of many other sins. It causes adultery, greed, violence, and extreme sexual needs. The sin of lust never stays isolated, as it leads to other sinful actions.
- Adultery and murder seem normal to someone with lust in their mind. According to the Bible, lust comes from a human’s heart. Most of the other sins are rooted in physical actions. It is reflected as one of the most dangerous sins.
- Having lust is the exploitation and objectification of other humans. This is merely personal pleasure and no respect for others. Everyone is created by God and doesn’t deserve the negativity of someone’s lust.
- By committing the sin of lust, humans are going against the will and plans of God. In Christianity, sexual relationships should be contained within marriage. Being faithful and having healthy desires is allowed. Similarly, people shouldn’t have extreme desires for materialistic things.
Top 3 Bible Verses Against Lust & Their Meaning
Matthew 5:28
- Bible Verse: “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.”
- Meaning: During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus made this statement while talking about righteous actions. Aside from physical adultery, he also talked about spiritual purity. The meaning of the Matthew 5:28 verse is that lust will corrupt your heart.
1 John 2:16
- Bible Verse: “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.”
- Meaning: Indeed, this Bible verse was written by the Apostle Paul. And, he addressed all the Christian believers. This verse shows that the world is full of temptation. From pride to extreme sexual desires and materialistic needs, everything is sinful. Lust will increase the distance between God and your soul. Your spiritual growth will not be limited unless you address lust directly.
2 Timothy 2:22
- Bible Verse: Flee also youthful lust, but follow righteousness, fath, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.”
- Meaning: In this Bible verse, Timothy and Paul are interacting with each other. Timothy was a young leader at the time. He was advised how to lead a life according to God. Temptations shouldn’t take away your control against lust. In the place of lust, you should embrace feelings of love and faith.
Conclusion
Without a doubt, lust carries a lot of spiritual consequences and that’s why it is dangerous. You will be distanced further away from God. Lust leads to immorality, guilt, and corruption. For the same reason, people should avoid having lust and keep their natural desires. In conclusion, lust will provoke destructive actions in your life.
FAQs
Is the sin of lust limited to sexual desires?
No, it also includes having extreme desires for materialistic things.
What is the meaning of lust in the Bible?
It means having extreme sexual or materialistic desires in life. Being controlled will keep you away from lust.
Why is lust considered to be a deadly sin?
It is a deadly sin because lust is the root cause of many other sins. For example, violence, adultery, and intense desires.
Also, Read: What Are The 7 Deadly Sins In The Bible | Bible Verses About Beauty | Seven Spirits of God
