1. Desire Permitted & Prohibited

2. Introduction In certain contexts, strong desire is commendable. Yet, it is often an expression of covetousness, and thus stands condemned. Christians must discern the difference, pursuing that which is good, avoiding that which is evil.

3. Defined The Greek verb epithumeō, a compound of epi [intensifier] and thumos [passion], describes strong desire, means “to covet, to long for, to lust after, etc.” The Greek verb epithumeō, a compound of epi [intensifier] and thumos [passion], describes strong desire, means “to covet, to long for, to lust after, etc.” The noun epithumētēs refers to “one who desires.” The noun epithumētēs refers to “one who desires.” The noun epithumia signifies “(great) desire, passionate longing, or lust.” The noun epithumia signifies “(great) desire, passionate longing, or lust.”

4. Physical Realm Physical food (Luke 15:11-16; 16:19-21) Release from physical suffering (Phil. 1:21-24; cf. Rev. 9:6)

5. Spiritual Realm Association (Luke 17:22; 22:14-16; 1 Thess. 2:17-20) Faithfulness (Heb. 6:11-12) Oversight (1 Tim. 3:1; cf. 1 Pet. 5:1-4) Understanding (Matt. 13:16-17; 1 Pet. 1:10-12)

6. Characteristics of Sinful Desire Originates with Satan (John 8:44) and with self (James 1:13-16) It is corrupt (Eph. 4:20-24; 2 Pet. 1:4) It is callous (2 Pet. 3:3-4) It is carnal (Gal. 5:16-24; 1 John 2:15-17)

7. Expressions of Sinful Desire Sexual immorality (Matt. 5:27-28; 1 Thess. 4:3-8) Materialistic coveting (Mark 4:18-19; Rom. 7:7-11; 1 Tim. 6:9-10)

8. Participants of Sinful Desire Self-indulgent youth (2 Tim. 2:20-22) Sinful humanity (Rom. 1:24-32; Eph. 2:1-3; Titus 3:3) Apostate disciples (2 Tim. 3:6-7; 4:1-5; James 4:1-4) False teachers (2 Pet. 2:9-11, 18-19; Jude 16- 21)

9. Conclusion We must not let sin reign in our mortal bodies so that we obey its lusts (Rom. 6:12-13). We must put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts (Rom. 13:13-14). We must crucify the flesh with its passions and desires (Gal. 5:24-25). We must consider ourselves dead to evil desire (Col. 3:5-7).

10. Conclusion We must deny ungodliness and worldly desires (Titus 2:11-14). We must not be conformed to the former lusts which were ours in ignorance (1 Pet. 1:14-16). We must abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul (1 Pet. 2:11-12). We should waste no more time in pursuing the lusts of men (1 Pet. 4:1-5).