Week 3

Tom Harding

Sermon Notes


Matthew 5:21–22

You have heard that it was said to the people long ago Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. 

 

 

Anger is the natural response to not (getting my way or) getting what I want.

 

Raca - If I can redefine you different than what God says about you, I can do what I want, say what I want, treat you as I want because you no longer matter.

 

 

Matthew 5:23–24

So when you are offering your gift at the altar, if you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go;

 

John 13:34

 I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.

 

1 John 4:20

Those who say, “I love God,” and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars

 

 

We appear before God in the context of all our relationships.

 

Matthew 5:24

…leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother or sister, and then come and offer your gift.

 

Reconciled - to bring things to a state of peace/shalom as God intends.

 

 

Matthew 5:25

Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are on the way to court with him, or your accuser may hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. 

 

 

Who do I need to ask to forgive me?

 

Anger is the natural response to not (getting my way or) getting what I want.

 

You, God and me are three things that never operate or relate in isolation.

 

 

Your healing will start the moment you choose to forgive.

 

The moment you choose Jesus and forgiveness over anger and contempt, something will happen in your worship of God.

 

This is not about what I should do. This is about who do I want to be.