How can Matthew 5:23 guide us in resolving conflicts with fellow believers? The Setting of Matthew 5:23 • Jesus is speaking in the Sermon on the Mount, giving concrete, literal commands for daily life. • The first–century Jewish worshiper would bring an animal or grain gift to the altar in Jerusalem; the scene is one of earnest worship. • By addressing conflicts right in the middle of that worship moment, Jesus shows that love for God and love for people are inseparable (cf. 1 John 4:20). Key Truths in the Verse • “If you are offering your gift at the altar” – true worship is more than ritual; God wants our hearts aligned with His holiness (Isaiah 1:11-17). • “And there remember that your brother has something against you” – the problem is not only when I hold a grudge, but when I have caused offense. • The instruction assumes the accuracy of memory and conscience prompted by the Holy Spirit—He actively brings unresolved issues to mind (John 16:8). Why Reconciliation Precedes Worship • God values restored relationships over religious performance (Hosea 6:6). • Unity in the body safeguards the credibility of our witness (John 13:34-35). • Bitterness quenches the Spirit and hinders prayer (Ephesians 4:30; 1 Peter 3:7). • An unreconciled state violates the Lord’s command to love our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:39). Practical Steps Drawn from the Verse 1. Pause and examine – Before every worship gathering, ask the Spirit to reveal offenses you’ve caused. 2. Recall and admit – If a name or situation surfaces, accept it as a prompt from the Lord. 3. Take initiative immediately – “Go first” is implied (cf. Matthew 5:24; Romans 12:18). Waiting for the other person is disobedience. 4. Go personally and privately – Follow Jesus’ pattern (Matthew 18:15). Texts or emails easily inflame; face-to-face honors the person. 5. Confess plainly – Own specific sins without excuses: “I was wrong when I . . . .” (Proverbs 28:13). 6. Make restitution if needed – Zacchaeus models tangible repayment (Luke 19:8-9). 7. Forgive and release – Extending or receiving forgiveness mirrors Christ’s forgiveness of us (Colossians 3:13). 8. Return to worship – Once peace is sought, resume your “gift”; reconciliation actually sweetens your praise. Supporting Scriptures • Mark 11:25 – “And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against another, forgive them.” • Ephesians 4:26-27 – “Do not let the sun set upon your anger, and do not give the devil a foothold.” • Hebrews 12:14 – “Pursue peace with everyone, as well as holiness.” • Psalm 133:1 – “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” Outcomes of Obedience • Clear conscience and renewed joy in worship (Psalm 51:12). • Stronger fellowship within the church family (Acts 2:46-47). • Credible witness before an observing world (Philippians 2:15-16). • Personal freedom from the corrosive effects of unresolved conflict (James 3:16-18). Living It Out This Week • Before the next service or quiet-time offering, ask: “Is anyone holding something against me?” • Obey promptly—phone call, coffee meeting, doorstep visit—whatever it takes. • Expect God to meet you with fresh grace, because reconciliation aligns you with His literal, trustworthy Word. |
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