
How does Jesus transform our understanding of the will of God for our lives and relationships?
1. Instead of allowing anger to divide the people of God, Jesus commands
Matthew 5:21-26
You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. 23 Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. 25 Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26 Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
Colossians 3:13
13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
2. Instead of teaching that sex outside of marriage is the only thing that God cares about as it relates to people’s sexual behavior, Jesus commands
Matthew 5:27-30
You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.
3 Strategies for Fighting Sin:
- Lean in to Christian
- Seek
3. Instead of perpetuating
Matthew 5:31-32
It has been said, ‘Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ 32 But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
Community Group Discussion Questions
Part 1: Catch up & share how you are really doing:
- How are you feeling today? Use only two words to answer. Explain why you chose each word.
- Take a moment and pray for one another about any big concerns / requests.
Part 2: Read Matthew 5:21-32, then…
- Reflecting on verses 21-26, what words, phrases, or ideas stand out to you about Jesus’ heart for reconciliation?
Are there any situations or relationships you would be willing to share about where you sense God leading you to seek reconciliation in your own life right now?
Focusing on verses 27-30, what jumps off the page at you in this section of the teaching? Do you remember anything in this week’s message that was helpful to you in considering how we might apply Jesus’ words here - either on an individual level or in our relationships? (Or do you have any fresh ideas of your own?)
Considering Jesus teaching in verses 31-32, how do you think Christians today can reflect Jesus’ heart by helping people who have been hurt by relational brokenness to experience the love of God? Can you share any practical examples or ideas for what this might look like?