Bible Question: Is there anywhere in any Bible including the Catholic version, that says that if a person thinks a thing it is the same as doing it? |
Bible Answer: Hello chartwig Yes and no. The following specific case comes to mind. Matthew 5:27-28 (ESV) "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' [28] But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Actually, Matt 5:21-48 has several examples of Christ addressing the intent of the heart in relation to our actions. So this is a definite yes. The flip side is James 1:14-15 (ESV) But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. [15] Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death. So, the answer is "not necessarily." When the thought first enters the mind, it is not sin. Remove it immediately. But if it is allowed to continue, then sin will come. So thinking here is not the same as doing. It all has to do with the intention of the heart. Steve |