Looking Good! (No eye patches allowed)
Hello again reader!
Yesterday’s sermon (2/10/19) had us looking at Matthew 5: 27 – 30. (You should read that now).
In this pericope (portion of Scripture), Jesus applies the pressure on us and our dark, hidden places – calling every part of us into the light. Prior, he warned us just how much danger we’re in because of our anger and tendency to label/curse our fellow man. This section goes deeper and has Jesus telling us to control our thoughts – as they will ultimately define us and place us in similar danger.
In verses 39 and 30 Jesus uses hyperbole to make his point – telling us that gouging out eyes and cutting off hands is better than all of us going to hell. Yes, being crippled and handicapped for the rest of our lives is better than saving face, having a good reputation all the while fostering a sinful heart and mind.
Despite the danger and threat to our eternal salvation, confession of sin is thought to be considerably more difficult and taboo than just plucking out an eye or chopping off a hand. When we open ourselves to confession we expose a truth that society and culture doesn’t want us to expose: We are weak and not independent creatures. We need help. We are desperate for a Savior. Modern culture expects us (especially men) to be strong, independent, holding a solid reputation.
Keep your secrets secret. Keep your weaknesses buried. Save face. Gain friends and influence people. All of these ideals are temptations – all are elevated by society and our peers… And every one of them endangers us. Many will slide on the fast track to hell with a great reputation. Many will fail in the judgement despite glowing resumes. Many will find that perfect attendance and the right wardrobe matter little in the grand scheme of salvation and eternity.
We’re in danger. But boy do we look good.
Matt 5: 29 – 30 (NLT) So if your eye—even your good eye—causes you to lust, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.30And if your hand—even your stronger hand—causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell