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"The lust of the eyes..."

Text: 1 John 2:16

THE NATURE OF THE FLESH

The human nature is not naturally imbued with strength. Human weaknesses are many and they are often easily tempted by what the world offers.

“For all that is in the world- the lust of the flesh,

the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life-

is not of the Father but is of the world.”

1 John 2:16

1. “The lust of the eyes”

a) John focused on “the eyes”

b) Through the eyes: –

i) Covetous thoughts can come.

ii) These thoughts if not controlled will lead to a strong desire (“lust”).

2. Consequences

a) Some may resort to criminal measures to obtain what is coveted.

b) Others may become obsessed with a desire to possess things.

c) On many occasions the results are ruinous.

3. No one exempted

a) Children are not exempted from “the lust of the eyes”.

i) They can resort to stealing.

ii) They can even resort to violence to obtain what their eyes desire.

b) Nor are “strong young men”.

i) The danger is perhaps worse.

ii) Promiscuity may result.

4. “The pride of life”

a) There is a subtle reference to “material wealth” or “status”.

b) Even older people desire to possess these worldly prizes.

c) Many spend their whole life pursuing these things.

d) Once they have reached a certain level they also end up possessing “pride of life”.

e) A more candid translation of this Greek phrase would be “arrogance in life”.

f) They think very highly of themselves and end up despising others who have “not succeeded”.