We Might Be Murderers
The Jesus Way
January 30, 2022
For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. “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.’ 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. —Matthew 5:20-22
We can avoid murder with our hands while still having a murderous heart.
How do we commit murder?
1. Nursing a Grudge
But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment (vs. 22a).
2. Harboring Contempt
Again, anyone who says to his brother, “Raca,” is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. (vs. 22b).
Anyone who hates a brother or sister is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life residing in him. —1 John 3:15
“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. “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. Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.” —Matthew 5:23-26
Reconciliation is such an urgent matter that you should stop what you’re doing and go make things right immediately.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. —Romans 12:18
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. —Ephesians 4:32
Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. —Colossians 3:13