Lust, in the biblical context, refers to an intense and unrestrained desire, often of a sexual nature, that leads individuals away from God's commandments and righteousness. The Bible frequently warns against lust, highlighting its destructive nature and its ability to lead to sin. In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of lust in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the seriousness of even internal desires: "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). This teaching underscores the importance of purity not only in actions but also in thoughts.

The Apostle Paul also speaks against lust, particularly in his letters to the early churches. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5, he writes, "For it is God’s will that you should be holy: You must abstain from sexual immorality; each of you must know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God" . Here, Paul contrasts the behavior expected of believers with that of those who do not follow God, urging Christians to live in a way that honors God.

Lust is often linked with other sins, such as adultery and covetousness, and is seen as a manifestation of the sinful nature that believers are called to overcome. In Galatians 5:16-17, Paul advises, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh" . This passage highlights the ongoing spiritual battle between the desires of the flesh and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Prostitution

Prostitution, the act of engaging in sexual relations for payment, is consistently condemned in the Bible as a form of sexual immorality. The Old Testament law explicitly forbids prostitution, as seen in Leviticus 19:29: "Do not degrade your daughter by making her a prostitute, or the land will turn to prostitution and be filled with wickedness" . This command reflects the broader biblical concern for maintaining the sanctity of sexual relations within the bounds of marriage.

The account of Rahab, a prostitute in Jericho, is a notable exception where a prostitute is portrayed in a positive light due to her faith and actions. In Joshua 2, Rahab hides the Israelite spies and acknowledges the power of the God of Israel, leading to her and her family's salvation during the conquest of Jericho. Her inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) and her mention in the "faith hall of fame" in Hebrews 11:31 demonstrate God's grace and redemption.

In the New Testament, prostitution is often used metaphorically to describe spiritual unfaithfulness. The Book of Revelation uses the imagery of a harlot to depict the corrupting influence of Babylon, symbolizing the seduction of worldly power and wealth away from God (Revelation 17:1-5). This metaphorical use underscores the seriousness with which the Bible views both physical and spiritual infidelity.

The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of prostitution directly in 1 Corinthians 6:15-20, warning believers against joining themselves with prostitutes: "Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and unite them with a prostitute? Never!" . Paul emphasizes the believer's body as a temple of the Holy Spirit, urging Christians to honor God with their bodies and flee from sexual immorality.

Throughout Scripture, both lust and prostitution are depicted as contrary to God's design for human sexuality, which is intended to be expressed within the covenant of marriage. The Bible calls believers to a higher standard of purity and holiness, reflecting God's character and purposes.