Anger Leads to Murder

Covenant with God

Called into Covenant with God

Obeying God's Law

Matthew 5:21-26 The Message

Murder

21-22 “You’re familiar with the command to the ancients, ‘Do not murder.’ I’m telling you that anyone who is so much as angry with a brother or sister is guilty of murder. Carelessly call a brother ‘idiot!’ and you just might find yourself hauled into court. Thoughtlessly yell ‘stupid!’ at a sister and you are on the brink of hellfire. The simple moral fact is that words kill.
23-24 “This is how I want you to conduct yourself in these matters. If you enter your place of worship and, about to make an offering, you suddenly remember a grudge a friend has against you, abandon your offering, leave immediately, go to this friend and make things right. Then and only then, come back and work things out with God.
25-26 “Or say you’re out on the street and an old enemy accosts you. Don’t lose a minute. Make the first move; make things right with him. After all, if you leave the first move to him, knowing his track record, you’re likely to end up in court, maybe even jail. If that happens, you won’t get out without a stiff fine.

For Reflection

Here is an excellent example of how Christ honors the Messianic law and extends it.  Not only is murder a sin but so is character assassination,  Even a hateful thought toward another is sinful.  Why?  It is a form of idolatry to place yourself at the center of your universe. In doing so you set yourself higher than God.  Being a Christian requires a great sacrifice.  That sacrifice is your avoidance of self-centeredness.

Pray

Pray for humility.  Pray so that you place God above yourself.  Pray so that you may be filled with the wisdom of righteousness.