You have heard that it was said, “You shall not commit adultery.”
But I tell you that anyone who looks at a women lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Matthew 5:27-28 (NIV)
You have heard that it was said to the people long ago,
‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.” But I tell you,
do not resist an evil person.
Matthew 5:38-39 (NIV)
You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…”
Matthew 5:43-44 (NIV)
“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 5:21-22 (NIV)
Anger is dangerous to our souls.
Anger is a secondary emotion. If we look beneath the anger we find other emotions like fear, shame, hurt, rejection, frustration, disappointment, and sadness.
Anger is a wake up call that something deeper is going on that needs to be dealt with.
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.
Matthew 5:23-24 (NIV)
Start with heart!
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First go and be reconciled to them;
then come and offer your gift
Matthew 5:24 (NIV)
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 5:25-26 (NIV)