Dictionary of Bible Themes: 8777 lust

8777 lust

Dictionary of Bible Themes

Dictionary of Bible Themes » 8000 The life of the believer » 8700 Threats to the life of faith » 8777 lust

An overpowering and compulsive desire or passion, especially of a sexual nature. Scripture condemns lust of all kinds, and urges believers to show self-control.

Lust has its origins in the heart and mind

Proverbs 6:25-29; Matthew 5:28 See also Genesis 3:6; Job 31:1; James 1:13-15; 1 John 2:16

Lust is natural to unbelievers

Romans 1:21-27 See also Romans 7:5; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10; 1 Peter 4:3; 2 Peter 2:14-18

Believers can and must fight against lust by showing self-control

Galatians 5:16-21; Colossians 3:5 See also 1 Corinthians 9:27; Galatians 5:24; Ephesians 4:22; 1 Thessalonians 4:4-5; 2 Timothy 2:22; Titus 2:12; 1 Peter 2:11

Examples of lust

Lust expressed as sexual desire

Genesis 39:6-12 Potiphar's wife and Joseph; 2 Samuel 11:2-5 David and Bathsheba

Lust for money

1 Timothy 6:9-10 See also 1 Timothy 3:3

The lustful desire of Israel and Judah for alliances

Ezekiel 23:1-21 Both kingdoms sought security from such alliances, rather than trusting in God.