Matthew 5:21–26
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus does not merely repeat the law; He goes beyond the surface to uncover the heart. He takes the sixth commandment — “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13) — and shows us that the true intent of God’s law is deeper than outward action. Murder is not only an act of the hand but also a condition of the heart.
Jesus says, “But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment” (Matthew 5:22). He warns that contemptuous words like “Raca” (empty-headed) or calling someone a “fool” spring from the same spirit of hatred that can lead to destruction. God sees not only our actions but also our attitudes, and He weighs the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Why Anger Matters
Anger is not always sinful. Scripture shows us that God Himself can be righteously angry at injustice and evil (Psalm 7:11). Even Jesus displayed righteous anger when He cleared the temple courts (John 2:15–17). Paul tells us, “In your anger do not sin” (Ephesians 4:26).
But Jesus is addressing something different here — not righteous indignation, but simmering resentment, bitterness, and contempt toward others. This kind of anger, left unchecked, poisons our hearts, distorts our vision, and eventually spills out in words and actions that tear others down.
How often do we allow this kind of anger to fester? Sometimes we may not act on it physically, but we assassinate people’s character with our words, gossip, or silence. Other times we rehearse offenses in our minds, replaying the hurt until bitterness takes root. Jesus says this is just as serious as outward violence, because it springs from the same sinful root.
Worship and Reconciliation
Jesus then gives a striking command: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there… First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23–24).
For His original listeners, the altar represented the most sacred space — the place of worship and sacrifice. Jesus was saying that reconciliation with one another is so important that it takes precedence even over acts of worship. God does not delight in songs or sacrifices offered by hearts filled with resentment.
Samuel echoed this truth to Saul: “Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord? To obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22). True worship is not about performance but about obedience and love flowing from a clean heart.
This means that before we raise our hands in praise, God calls us to examine our hearts. Is there bitterness, unresolved conflict, or unforgiveness? Jesus teaches us to pause and take the initiative to reconcile, as far as it depends on us (Romans 12:18).
The Urgency of Reconciliation
Jesus continues, “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court” (Matthew 5:25). The longer we allow offense to fester, the more it grows, the harder reconciliation becomes, and the greater the consequences.
We live in a world of block-and-delete culture, where it feels easier to avoid people than to deal with issues. But the kingdom way is different. Jesus calls us to move toward one another, not away. Reconciliation may not always lead to restored friendship, but it does guard our hearts from bitterness and keeps our worship genuine.
The Power to Reconcile
Of course, this is not easy. In our own strength, we may lack the will to forgive or the humility to admit fault. That is why Jesus promises us the Holy Spirit, our Advocate and Helper (John 14:16–17). The Spirit softens our hearts, reminds us of God’s grace toward us, and empowers us to extend that same grace to others.
Paul writes, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13). When we remember how much mercy we have received, it becomes possible — though still challenging — to show mercy to others.
Living as Kingdom People
At its core, reconciliation is not just about conflict resolution; it is about living out the culture of the kingdom. Jesus’ manifesto is clear: His followers are to reflect His heart. Kingdom people are not marked by grudges or bitterness, but by love, forgiveness, and peace.
Every time we choose reconciliation over resentment, we reflect our Father in heaven. Every time we forgive instead of retaliating, we show the world a glimpse of the cross. Every time we humble ourselves to seek peace, we live out the gospel we proclaim.
Reflection Question
Is there someone you need to reconcile with today — a friend, a family member, a brother or sister in Christ? What step can you take, with the Spirit’s help, to pursue peace and keep your worship pure before God?
