12 Bible Verses About Lust

Written by: Evelyn Johnson
Published on:

This article explores powerful Bible verses about lust and how they teach us to resist temptation and focus on God’s will.

Lust is described as a desire for something that is not rightfully ours, often related to sexual desire or material possessions.

The Bible emphasizes the importance of self-control and purity in our thoughts and actions, and teaches us to treat others with respect and honor, rather than objectifying them for our own pleasure.

Relevant chapters include Matthew 5, 1 Corinthians 6, Galatians 5, and James 1.

Bible verses about lust

Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about lust:

1. “But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.” – Matthew 5:28
2. “Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” – 2 Timothy 2:22
3. “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;” – 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4
4. “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” – Romans 12:2
5. “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” – 1 John 2:16
6. “Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” – Romans 13:13

7. “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” – Romans 13:14
8. “And the Lord said unto Moses, Go, get thee down; for thy people, which thou broughtest out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves.” – Exodus 32:7
9. “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.” – Mark 7:21-23
10. “And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” – Matthew 5:29
11. “But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” – James 1:14-15
12. “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;” – Titus 2:11-12

What does the Bible say about lust?

The Bible teaches that lust is a sin that can lead to immoral behavior and ultimately separation from God.

It is described as a desire for something that is not rightfully ours, often related to sexual desire or material possessions.

Lust can lead to adultery, fornication, and other forms of sexual immorality, which are condemned in the Bible.

The Bible encourages us to resist temptation and to focus on God’s will, rather than our own selfish desires.

It also teaches that we should treat others with respect and honor, rather than objectifying them for our own pleasure.

Overall, the Bible emphasizes the importance of self-control and purity in our thoughts and actions.

What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about lust?

1. Matthew 5 – This chapter includes Jesus’ teachings on lust and adultery. He emphasizes the importance of not just avoiding the physical act of adultery, but also the thoughts and desires that lead to it.

2. 1 Corinthians 6 – This chapter discusses sexual immorality and how it goes against the purpose of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. It also emphasizes the importance of fleeing from sexual sin.

3. Galatians 5 – This chapter discusses the battle between the flesh and the Spirit, and how the desires of the flesh can lead to sinful behavior, including sexual immorality.

4. James 1 – This chapter discusses the temptation to sin and how it can lead to death. It emphasizes the importance of resisting temptation and relying on God’s strength to overcome it.

These chapters are relevant to lust because they all address the issue of sexual immorality and the importance of resisting temptation. They also emphasize the spiritual consequences of giving in to lustful desires.

Ideas and concepts related to lust that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.

1. Temptation – Temptation is the desire to do something that is considered wrong or sinful. Lust is often seen as a temptation that can lead to sinful behavior.

2. Adultery – Adultery is the act of having sexual relations with someone who is not your spouse. Lust can lead to adultery, which is considered a sin in the Bible.

3. Fornication – Fornication is the act of engaging in sexual activity outside of marriage. Lust can lead to fornication, which is also considered a sin in the Bible.

4. Covetousness – Covetousness is the desire to have something that belongs to someone else. Lust can be seen as a form of covetousness, as it involves a strong desire for something that may not be attainable or appropriate.

5. Idolatry – Idolatry is the worship of something other than God. Lust can become an idol, as it can consume a person’s thoughts and desires, leading them away from God.

Overall, these concepts are related to lust in that they all involve desires that can lead to sinful behavior. The Bible teaches that we should resist temptation, avoid adultery and fornication, and focus our desires on God rather than worldly things.

Evelyn Johnson - Bible Verses
Written by Evelyn Johnson


Evelyn Johnson is a theologian, Bible expert, and the founder of EncouragingBibleVerses.org, a trusted resource for uplifting and empowering Bible verses.

With a Master's degree in Divinity, Evelyn is dedicated to studying and interpreting the Bible. Her website features curated collections of verses on various topics, along with insightful commentary and practical tips for everyday life.

Evelyn is also a sought-after speaker and author on matters of faith and spirituality. In her free time, she enjoys hiking and volunteering in her local church and community.

Learn more about her and read her other articles here.