In Matthew 5:27–30, Jesus moves beyond the physical act of adultery to expose the sinfulness of lust within the human heart. Sexual purity is not simply a matter of outward behavior or avoiding particular temptations. It requires us to recognize the seriousness of sin and address the desires that lead us into it.
Jesus uses the language of removing an eye or cutting off a hand to emphasize the seriousness with which we must deal with sin. While these statements are hyperbolic, the principle is clear: we must be willing to remove anything that leads us into sin. However, removing temptation cannot change the heart or produce the righteousness God requires. That comes through faith in Jesus Christ, whose righteousness is our hope.
