The truth is, conflict is inevitable, which makes irritation and anger, at times, down-right unavoidable. Conflict is a part of life and Jesus has a lot to say about it. He helps prepare us to live with him in the future by showing us how to live the abundant life here and now.
Matthew 5:21-26 is c,early one unit and is the first of six such units, all beginning with: "You have heard that it was said, but I say to you ..."
In telling us how to deal with conflict, Jesus tells us to get right with God instead of getting even with one another.
I. Anger is unavoidable, but hatred is unacceptable (verses 21-22).
1. The meaning of anger.
"Angry" is from a Greek word meaning "a smoldering cauldron of hate."
- Sometimes anger is appropriate. It is a God-given emotion to motivate us to action.
2. Hatred is a voluntary reaction.
"Raca" comes from the sound made just before we spit.
"Fool" comes from a word that means mentally disturbed in the worst sense.
- You may be justified in your anger and hurt, but you are never justified in hating another person.
Psalm 4:4; 1 John 2:9
II. Reconciliation is more important than religion (verses 23-24).
1. We can't worship God if we hate someone else.
Psalm 66:18
- Hatred is like hydrochloric acid that eats through the exterior right into the vital organs.
2. Be willing to take the first step toward reconciliation.
- we are only responsible for what others hold against us when it is owing to real sin or blundering on our part.
- We are responsible for pursuing reconciliation when it is our fault, but we cannot make reconciliation happen.
Romans 12:18
III. Quickly handle all problems with both brothers and enemies (verses 25-26).
1. Time does not heal all wounds. (Hebrews 12:14-15)
2. Don't wait until you know what to say and how to act.
Close:
The next time you need to deal with conflict, remember that Jesus tells us to get right with God instead of getting even with one another.
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