TID #155 Root out sin quickly

What’s up TRC and Friends! Today we continue in the Sermon on the Mount and talk about the next way Jesus taught us to seek his kingdom and righteousness first.

Today we’ll get into Matthew 5:21-26.

In Matthew 5:21-26, Jesus instructs us about dealing with sin, particularly using lust as an illustration. Jesus’ main point is the urgency and decisiveness required in addressing sin in our lives.

Jesus’s central message is that we must deal with sin quickly and decisively. He uses stark imagery – suggesting it’s better to cut off body parts than allow sin to remain – to emphasize the severity and urgency of addressing sin in our lives.

Why does sexual sin require special attention?

1. It’s deeply connected to worship and spiritual warfare.
2. It affects both the physical and spiritual aspects of our being.
3. It has far-reaching consequences on relationships and society.
4. It’s particularly destructive to marriage, which represents Christ’s relationship with the church.

How does sin in general begin and progress?

Jesus teaches that outward sin starts in the heart. Before any physical action, sin begins in our thoughts and desires. This progression shows why we must address sin at its root.

Sin starts with thoughts and desires. These thoughts affect our neurological pathways. Physical actions follow from these established neuropathways. Habits and lifestyles develop from repeated actions.

What are some practical steps to root out sin?

1. Practice transparency with trusted accountability partners.
2. Establish new thought patterns aligned with God’s word.
3. Create new physical habits that reinforce God’s standards.
4. Take decisive action when temptation appears.

Consider these questions and challenges.

1. What sins am I currently tolerating that need immediate attention?
2. Am I being fully transparent with trusted friends about sin?
3. What practical steps can I take today to cut off access to temptation?

Choose one area of sin in your life and take immediate, decisive action to address it. This might mean:

1. Deleting apps that lead to temptation.
2. Setting up accountability software.
3. Scheduling regular check-ins with a trusted friend.
4. Creating new habits that replace destructive patterns.

No preventative measure is too extreme when it comes to protecting your relationship with God and your relationship with your church. Deal with sin quickly and decisively, knowing that God’s grace empowers us to overcome through Christ.