I am a Jesus pusher!!! Jesus extends a vivid and startling contrast in Matthew 5:28, “But I say to you that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” “Those of old” interpreted God’s law according to their self-achievements. They viewed their sexuality as “an isolated body drive” to be controlled within the boundaries of decency. If they kept their sexuality in the boundaries of marriage, any pleasure or satisfaction was acceptable. The contrast here is with the Spirit-filled life, “But I say to you.” The New Covenant restored us to God’s intention from the beginning. Our sexuality envelops our creation and purpose for life. The presence of God must permeate every aspect of sexuality from the heart’s intention to the practical physical expression. Jesus makes an amazing contrast!
The rule of old was, “You shall not commit adultery.” The Jews loved this terminology because it was always about “you” and never about “them.” We see this philosophy expressed when they drug a woman caught in the act of adultery to the feet of Jesus. They believed they were justified in their action; they leaned back ready to throw stones, their self-righteousness leading them to put this woman to death. Let us look carefully at what Jesus said in our passage. “But I say to you that whoever” (Matthew 5:28). The “looking ones” fall into the category of lusting and are included with no adjustment, no excuse, or no compromise! This does not allow us to drag anyone into the arena of scrutiny. We all stand in the spotlight of examination by the New Covenant standard! I am a Jesus pusher!!!