Tuesday 12th March
Read Matthew 5:21-23
“‘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.” (NIVUK)
Jesus has progressively established that something as significant as murder is equivalent to, if not superseded by, something as thoughtless as dismissing and insulting someone you found obnoxious and foolish. The punishment for murder can be dealt with in human courts, but the punishment for anger and abuse escalates to heaven’s court and the judgement is severe indeed.
Therefore, Jesus says, treat it seriously! An insulting comment is literally a matter of life and death – like murder. It is so serious that, even if you are in church when you realise the situation, worshipping and praising God, you should walk out and sort it out! Don’t just wait until the service is over even if they are short like ours. Walk out and be reconciled – then come and worship.
One wonders how literally Jesus actually intends this example to be taken. Surely it is a little hyperbolic, like removing one’s eye if it causes you to sin? Perhaps, perhaps not. Don Carson captures the heart of Jesus’ intention here well, ‘Men love to substitute ceremony for integrity, purity and love, but Jesus will have none of it’.
