Title: Thou shalt not covet (Exodus 20:17)
Content Because all the commands of the 10 commands are related to our actions, we can say that the criminal actions are visible. On the other hand, the crime of covetousness is an invisible crime, unlike those pointed out in other commandments. Covetousness is an invisible but real crime, a sinful desire or motive for sin, a crime involving inner thoughts, and an emotion. Covetousness is “the excessive desire to possess in an unjust and unjust way, despite not having the right to own it.
1. What kind of sin is covetousness First, this is the most common crime that can be committed by humans. Second, this transition is the root of sin. James points out, "When lust has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death" (James 1:15). Paul teaches that “the love of money is the root of all evil.” (1 Tim. 6:10) Third, this sin is idolatry. (Colossians 3:5, Philippians 3:19) Fourth, this sin is the most restricted in the Bible. It is a sin you are doing. (Luke 12:15)
2. What are the consequences of covetousness? First, it makes the growth of faith impossible. Paul exhorts us to “learn to be self-sufficient and to give up greed so that we may devote ourselves to the words and precepts of the Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Timothy 6:3). Second, it destroys health. “He who hates greed prospers” (Proverbs 28:16) Third, they fall into various trials (1 Tim. 6:9). Fourth, it harms our community. Exodus 18:21 advises to “set up leaders without covetousness”. 1 Timothy 3 says that “a bishop who is the leader of the church should be a man who does not love money.” Fifth, it is a sin that prevents us from entering the kingdom of God (Ephesians 5:5).
3. To overcome the crime of covetousness, you must first know that covetousness is a sin. Second, we must learn the lesson of self-sufficiency. (Philippians 4:12-13) Third, we must learn to give. (Proverbs 21:26) Fourth, we must have holy desire. Fifth, like Zacchaeus, we must go boldly before the Lord with humility.