A Heart of Peace
For Meditation (Corey Widmer)
We’re now in the main body of teaching of the Sermon on the Mount. Last week, we saw that Jesus defended himself as someone who deeply honors the Law and the Prophets, while also insisting that he is teaching the true, right meaning of the Torah. Jesus called for “a greater righteousness,” a deep goodness and wholeness of the heart that results not just in outward behavior but inward transformation.
Beginning in verse 21, Jesus lists 6 examples of the kind of righteousness he is talking about. For each case, he takes an Old Testament law (or a law given by the Pharisees) that seems pretty straightforward, and then shows how the true intent of the law is much deeper than commonly believed.
His first example is the Law’s prohibition of murder. At first glance, it seems like an easy law to obey- just don’t kill anyone! But Jesus reveals that the true intent of the Law is to not just prevent killing but to promote and cultivate love. Therefore any attitude of the heart that holds someone in contempt or hatred is equivalent to murder in the sight of God. In this sense, we are all guilty of breaking this law!
As you prepare for worship this week, consider the intensity of Jesus’ teaching on anger and reflect on the following:
Can you think of a time that outwardly you appeared cordial, but inside you nursed resentment, apathy or contempt toward another person? What does Jesus seem to be saying about this?
Ephesians 4:26 says, “Be angry, and do not sin.” How could we be angry in a way that is righteous? Can you think of examples from the life of Jesus or elsewhere in the Bible? Why is godly anger different than the kind of anger Jesus is talking about here?
How do you think we as a community, family, or parish group could model the kind of person-honoring, reconciliation-focused attitude that Jesus is teaching here? What would we need to do differently?
Matthew 5:21-26
21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.
23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.
25 “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26 Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.