SCRIPTURE
Matthew 5:21-26
COMMENTS
I think that most would agree that murder is a sin. And as such, it deserves judgement. But anger? How do we stop from being angry? It is an emotion, not an action. To insult someone, to actually say it out loud, and you can be held liable for your words. But to suffer hell just for calling someone a fool? That seems a bit extreme.
Jesus is making a strong point here, and it is that we are all guilty and deserve judgement. I think of Romans 3:23. He continues this thought with the idea of making an offering while in conflict with a brother. He tells us to resolve the conflict first. Not that we cannot make the offering, but don't come to God making an offering to cleanse yourself in one area of your life, while still holding on to other areas that need addressed. If you have an opportunity to settle things with your brother, great. If you have to stand before the judge, that might not work out so well for you. If you are found guilty, you will never escape your judgement!
Remember the thoughts put forward in the beginning of the chapter, those putting forth the ideas of purity, humility, thirsting for righteousness? This is what Jesus is reinforcing. Cleanliness before God is not a matter of not violating the "big" laws, it is a matter of who you are inside. Don't think you can put God in your debt with gifts and offerings. The debt we owe is far beyond our ability to give.
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