Series: Simply Complex
Message: Complex Beliefs
Preacher: Japhet De Oliveira
Daily Walk: Japhet De Oliveira

Refresh: Open with prayer. Ask God for understanding through the Holy Spirit.

Read: Matthew 5:21–48 (NLT). As you read the New Living Translation, note 1–3 insights.

Reflect: My Bible has the subheading “Anger” above verses 21–26.” It could also have logically been “Murder,” since that is where Jesus started in these verses, but this subheading reflects accurately His emphasis on getting to the root of the problem. He wants us to understand that murder is the consequence of anger. Anger is the problem. The apostle John understood what Jesus was arguing in these verses. In 1 John 3:11–15, the passage where John encourages us to love one another, he uses Cain as the example that we should avoid. Cain, of course, was a murderer—but as John points out in verse 15, this was because “hate” was dwelling in Cain.

Road rage is an issue in various North American cities—notably Miami and New York. We probably have all been on the receiving end of this kind of rage—or have perhaps raged at others in a moment of regrettable weakness. What causes this level of tension to build up? What causes people to yell at other drivers—or sometimes to assault or even kill them? What makes people feel that we can move our own personal ton of metal in any way we choose without thought to the consequences of the possible collision?

Anger is deeply complex. Surely there must be times that we are allowed to be angry. There must be times when “righteous fury” is acceptable and even necessary. We would all like to think that this is true since it justifies our behavior. But is it possible that Jesus is pushing toward a much higher standard? Maybe you picked up as well the slight humor that comes through in these verses. You arrive at the temple to offer a sacrifice and as you pause and reflect on all that God is you remember Joe. Yes, Joe, your neighbor who you were angry with and have not forgiven. Well, he lives back home. Where is home? In Galilee, of course. That is a three day journey on foot. It’s going to take a week to turn around, make things right with Joe, and come back to the temple to offer the sacrifice! All because you are not living your faith life authentically.

When Jesus said, “You have heard it was said . . . but I say to you,” He was pointing out the hypocrisy in those of us who think we have done “enough.” So you think because you have not committed murder that you are doing well? The anger you hold within is not only killing you slowly, but it is potentially devastating to others. Do the most difficult thing in the world; make peace with those who make you angry. Reconcile with one another.

Recalibrate: What are you angry about or who are you angry with?

Respond: Pray for a spirit of reconciliation.

Research: Watch the sermon by Tim Gillespie on Matthew 5:21–26