Jesus and Sex

Jesus and Sex

This Bible teaching from Founded In Truth Fellowship delves into the often-avoided topic of sex and sexual desire, as discussed by Yeshua (Jesus) in the Sermon on the Mount. The speaker begins by introducing Founded In Truth as a fellowship centered on truth and love, emphasizing their commitment to addressing even difficult subjects that the Bible speaks about extensively but are often overlooked in church settings.

The teaching highlights that Yeshua offers a profound and sometimes shocking perspective on this area of life. Drawing from Matthew chapter 5, verse 27, Yeshua states, "You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart." This statement, the speaker explains, reveals that Yeshua's teaching goes beyond the physical act of adultery to address the inner desires and intentions of the heart. He is calling people to a deeper level of righteousness, one that transforms the very core of their being, moving beyond mere behavioral modification to the renovation of the inner person.

The speaker emphasizes that Yeshua's message is set within the context of a new covenant, a relationship with God founded on forgiveness, love, and mercy, as spoken of in Jeremiah 31. This new relationship calls for a radical shift in how people relate to God and to one another, walking against the grain of the world's permissive attitudes towards sexual desire.

A crucial distinction is made between sexual desire and lust. The speaker clarifies that sexual desire itself is not inherently sinful; in fact, the Bible presents two primary purposes for it within the context of God's design: procreation and pleasure within a committed, covenantal relationship. The book of Song of Songs (also known as Song of Solomon) is cited as an entire book of erotic poetry within the Bible that beautifully portrays the passion and intimacy intended within marriage. Examples from Song of Songs chapter 7 are shared to illustrate the depth of desire and appreciation between covenant partners. This book reveals that sexual passion, within the boundaries of a committed relationship, is a beautiful and exciting part of God's plan.

However, the teaching warns against the dangers of unbound sexual desire, which leads to lust. Lust is defined as the desire for something one is not entitled to, a form of coveting. Yeshua's words in Matthew 5:28 equate looking at someone with lustful intent to being a thief in one's mind, objectifying another human being. This kind of desire takes the boundaries off of a good thing, turning it into something destructive, much like fire leaving the fireplace. The example of King Solomon, who despite his wisdom, fell into the trap of unchecked sexual desire, serves as a cautionary tale. Proverbs chapters 5 and 7 are mentioned as warnings against this very danger.

To underscore the seriousness of this issue, Yeshua uses hyperbolic language in verses 29 and 30, urging listeners to tear out their eye or cut off their hand if it causes them to sin. The speaker clarifies that Yeshua is not literally commanding self-mutilation but rather using exaggeration to shock people into recognizing the extreme danger of unchained lust and the eternal consequences it can bring. It is better to lose a member than for the whole body to be cast into hell. The real issue, the speaker emphasizes, is the heart. Cutting off a hand will not resolve the inner problem of lust.

The teaching then addresses the pervasive issue of pornography in the modern age. With easy access to sexually explicit material, fueling lust has become simpler than ever. Scientific research is cited to show the devastating effects of pornography on individuals and society, including its impact on both men and women. The brain's reward system, through the release of dopamine, creates pathways that reinforce the desire for repeated exposure. Additionally, hormones associated with bonding, such as oxytocin and vasopressin, can be misdirected, leading to a false sense of entitlement towards individuals in pornography. This can distort one's understanding of healthy relationships and create feelings of shame, inadequacy, and incompleteness.

The core of Yeshua's teaching, according to the speaker, is the need to renovate the heart and to see every human being as an image bearer of God. Looking at another person with lust objectifies them, stripping away their God-given status. True discipleship involves changing one's perspective to understand that there is no place for desire for another without love, commitment, and covenant. The responsibility for this transformation ultimately lies with each individual, particularly men, to cultivate a heart that honors God in how they view and treat others.

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Application for Everyday Life

• Self-Examination: Regularly examine your thoughts and intentions regarding sexual attraction. Recognize when innocent attraction crosses the line into lustful desire.
• Guard Your Eyes and Mind: Be mindful of what you consume visually and mentally. Limit exposure to images and content that fuel lust, including pornography and objectifying media.
• Retrain Your Brain: Actively work to redirect thoughts and attention away from lustful impulses. Focus on seeing others as individuals created in God's image.
• Cultivate Healthy Relationships: Nurture love, commitment, and intimacy within your covenant relationships. Seek to understand and appreciate your partner in a holistic way.
• Seek Accountability and Support: If you struggle with lust, be open and honest with trusted friends, mentors, or leaders who can provide support and accountability.
• Utilize Resources: Explore available resources, such as books and websites, that offer science-based strategies for overcoming addiction to pornography and retraining the brain.
• Pray for a Renewed Heart: Regularly ask God to cleanse your heart, renew your mind, and help you see others as He sees them.
• Address Underlying Issues: Recognize that lust can sometimes be a symptom of deeper issues like loneliness, insecurity, or unresolved trauma. Seek help to address these root causes.
• Practice Modesty: While the ultimate responsibility lies with the individual's heart, practicing modesty in dress and behavior can help create an environment that is less provocative for lustful thoughts in others.
• Focus on Godly Love: Cultivate a love for God and others that is rooted in respect, honor, and a recognition of their inherent worth as beings created in His likeness.

Books and Resources Mentioned

• fightthenewdrug
• Fortify: retrain your brain from being addicted to sex or pornography

Bible Verse Hyperlinks

Matthew 5:27

Matthew 5:28

Matthew 5:29

Matthew 5:30

Song of Songs

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