How can Matthew 5:21 guide us in resolving anger with others biblically? Setting the Stage “ ‘You have heard that it was said to the ancients, “Do not murder,” and “Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.” ’ ” (Matthew 5:21) Understanding the Command • Jesus recalls God’s sixth commandment, then expands it (v. 22) to show that murder begins with unrestrained anger. • By linking visible violence to invisible attitudes, He moves the issue from courtroom to heart, calling believers to deal with anger before it conceives sin (James 1:14-15). Anger as Heart-Level Murder • Resentment, contempt, harsh words, or cold silence violate the spirit of “Do not murder.” • God’s standard judges the motive, not just the deed (1 Samuel 16:7). • Harboring anger places us “subject to judgment” just as surely as overt violence. Practical Steps to Resolve Anger 1. Examine the Source – Ask, “What desire, fear, or pride is fueling this?” (James 4:1-2). 2. Confess Immediately – Acknowledge anger as sin when it crosses from righteous concern to self-centered wrath (1 John 1:9). 3. Seek Reconciliation Quickly – “Leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother” (Matthew 5:24). 4. Speak Truth in Love – Address the issue directly but gently (Ephesians 4:15). 5. Control the Tongue – “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” (James 1:19-20). 6. Replace Bitterness with Kindness – “Be kind and tender-hearted… forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (Ephesians 4:31-32). 7. Pray for the Offender – Blessing those who wrong us subdues anger (Matthew 5:44). 8. Guard the Heart Ongoing – Daily fill the mind with God’s Word (Psalm 119:11) and rely on the Spirit’s self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). Scripture Connections • Proverbs 15:1 – A gentle answer diffuses wrath. • Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible… live at peace with everyone.” • Ecclesiastes 7:9 – Anger lodges in the lap of fools. • Colossians 3:8 – “Put away… anger, rage, malice.” Takeaway Truths • Murder is the fruit; unresolved anger is the root. • God’s judgment reaches the hidden places we excuse. • Swift confession and reconciliation keep anger from escalating. • Living out Jesus’ deeper intent transforms relationships and safeguards our witness. |
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