Killing Sin: Lust

The forbidden longings of lust are a very real and present danger. Although Christians may be diligent in being on the lookout for lust, we often find it has passed through our defenses and is present in our hearts. Lust may be subtle in its entrance, and then strong in its growth and pursuits. Such longings in our hearts are part of the three that the Apostle John lists in 1 John 2 above. Don't miss John's words that importantly reveal to us that these lusts are both in the world and of the world. Notice that all three of these longings have to do with three predominant inclinations of the depraved nature. All three of them demonstrate personal gratification, and not a heart of love and obedience to God. Yet, all praise be to our God for the truth that though the natural man is in bondage to his lusts (Rom. 3:10–18), when the Lord saves us, because of our union with Christ, we are delivered from the dominion of them (Rom. 6:12-14).