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but I tell you that everyone who gazes at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart.

Verse Takeaways

1

Sin Begins in the Heart

Commentators unanimously agree that Jesus radically expands the understanding of adultery. He teaches that sin isn't just the external act but originates in the 'inner man'—the heart, which includes our intellect, will, and affections. By condemning the lustful look, Jesus targets the very source of sin, showing that God's law judges our hidden thoughts and desires, not just our public actions.

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Commentaries

9

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Matthew 5:27–28

18th Century

Theologian

Ye have heard—Thou shalt not commit adultery. Our Savior in these verses explains the seventh commandment. It is probable that the Pharise…

AT Robertson

AT Robertson

On Matthew 5:28

In his heart (εν τη καρδια αυτου). Not just the centre of the blood circulation though it means that. Not just the emotional part …

Charles Spurgeon

Charles Spurgeon

On Matthew 5:27–28

19th Century

Preacher

In this case, our King again sets aside the interpretations of men concerning the commands of God and reveals the law in its vast spiritual breadth…

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Expositor's Bible Commentary

Expositor's Bible Commentary

On Matthew 5:28

The OT command not to commit adultery (Exodus 20:14) is often treated in Jewish sources not so much as a function of purity as of theft…

John Calvin

John Calvin

On Matthew 5:28

16th Century

Theologian

Whoever shall look upon a woman. Christ's design was to condemn generally the lust of the flesh. He says that not only those who have sedu…

John Gill

John Gill

On Matthew 5:28

17th Century

Pastor

But I say unto you, that whosoever looketh on a woman
Many and severe are the prohibitions of the Jews, concerning looking upo…

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Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Matthew 5:27–32

17th Century

Minister

Victory over the desires of the heart must be accompanied by painful exertions. But it must be done.

Everything is bestowed to save us from …

Thomas Aquinas

Thomas Aquinas

On Matthew 5:27–30

13th Century

Philosopher

You have heard that it was said to them of old: You shall not commit adultery. Above, the Lord fulfilled the Law regardin…