Dealing with Anger and Conflict

The Sermon on the Mount: Lesson 4
Matthew 5:21-26

The Heart of the Law

Jesus begins by referencing the familiar commandment, “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment’” (Matthew 5:21). This command, found in Exodus 20:13, was well known to his audience, but Jesus takes it further. He declares, “But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment” (Matthew 5:22). With these words, Jesus shifts the focus from outward actions to inward attitudes.

The righteousness Jesus calls his followers to isn’t merely avoiding physical acts of violence but cultivating a heart free from hatred and contempt. Anger and insult, he warns, bring consequences before God. In Jewish culture, calling someone “Raca” (a term of contempt) or “fool” was more than just an insult – it reflected a heart filled with malice. Jesus is emphasizing that harboring such attitudes makes one guilty before God’s judgment, just as much as a physical act of murder.

The Urgency of Reconciliation

Jesus then gives two illustrations emphasizing the necessity of reconciliation. First, he says, “So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23-24). Worship isn’t acceptable to God if we’re harboring unresolved conflict with others. True devotion includes making peace with our brothers and sisters.

This teaching highlights the priority of reconciliation in the Christian life. Just as God has reconciled us to himself through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:18-19), we must actively pursue peace in our relationships. Jesus is showing that the heart of the Law isn’t merely avoiding wrongdoing but seeking restored relationships and living in love.

Settle Matters Quickly

Jesus continues, “Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison” (Matthew 5:25). This legal illustration reinforces the urgency of reconciliation. The longer conflict is allowed to fester, the more serious the consequences become. Just as settling a legal dispute quickly can prevent severe penalties, addressing relational conflicts promptly prevents spiritual harm and division.

Paul echoes this principle in Ephesians 4:26-27: “Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil.” Unresolved anger leads to bitterness, and bitterness destroys relationships. Jesus calls his followers to be peacemakers, seeking to resolve disputes before they escalate.

Key Principles

1. Jesus teaches that external obedience isn’t enough; anger, insults, and hatred also violate the spirit of the Law (Matthew 5:21-22).
2. Before approaching God in worship, we must first seek peace with those we’ve wronged (Matthew 5:23-24).
3. Delaying reconciliation only leads to greater harm; Jesus calls us to address disputes before they escalate (Matthew 5:25-26).

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jesus deepen the commandment against murder in Matthew 5:21-22?
2. Why does Jesus equate anger and insult with murder? What does this teach about the nature of sin?
3. What practical steps can we take to guard our hearts against harboring resentment and bitterness?
4. How does the principle of seeking reconciliation before worship apply to our daily lives? (Matthew 5:23-24)
5. What are some ways we can foster a spirit of reconciliation in our families and church communities?
6. How does Jesus’ teaching on settling disputes quickly (Matthew 5:25-26) reflect God’s desire for peace among his people?
7. What does Ephesians 4:26-27 add to our understanding of dealing with anger?
8. Why is reconciliation a key theme in Christian living? How does it reflect God’s character?
9. What are some potential consequences of unresolved conflict in our spiritual lives?
10. How does Jesus’ teaching in this passage challenge the way we approach forgiveness and conflict resolution?

Questions for Discussion and Personal Reflection

1. Are there any relationships in your life where reconciliation is needed? What steps can you take to make peace?
2. How do you typically respond when you feel anger toward someone? How can you align your response with Jesus’ teaching?
3. Have you ever experienced the peace that comes from resolving a conflict? What did you learn from that experience?
4. How does this passage shape your understanding of worship and your relationship with God?
5. What are some practical ways you can cultivate a heart that’s quick to forgive and eager to reconcile?
6. How does understanding God’s forgiveness toward us shape the way we forgive others?
7. What role does pride play in preventing reconciliation, and how can we overcome it?
8. How can you encourage a culture of reconciliation within your church or community?
9. What does it look like to “settle matters quickly” in modern-day conflicts?
10. How can prayer help in softening our hearts and leading us toward reconciliation?

Action Steps

1. Ask God to reveal any resentment or bitterness you may be holding onto, and commit to addressing it in a Christlike manner.
2. Identify one relationship where reconciliation is needed and take a step toward peace, whether through an apology, a conversation, or an act of kindness.
3. Make forgiveness a habit by choosing to let go of offenses and extending grace as Christ has extended grace to you.

Thank you for joining me today. My hope is that you were encouraged and blessed by reflecting on this passage. You can discover more devotionals, Bible studies, and other resources by clicking here: Walking Points. If you found this study helpful, please consider sharing it with others and encouraging them to subscribe as well.