4 Do not Murder
Yesterday we saw how Jesus viewed the teaching of the Old Testament. He said that he had not come to abolish it, but to fulfil it. Today we see the far-reaching implications of what he meant.
You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgement'. But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgement. Matthew 5: 21 [NIV]
Here, and in five other places later on in the chapter, Jesus quotes what the Jews had been told by their teachers and then adds, '... but I tell you'. His authority is clear.
The Old Testament law forbade murder. It was the sixth commandment. Jesus adds his weight to the commandment, but he makes it far more comprehensive and demanding. He addresses the root cause of murder: anger. Of course not all anger leads to murder, but anger is what lies behind murder, and so Jesus condemns it. There is some exaggeration here, but we understand Jesus' point. Our thoughts and attitudes matter as well as our deeds.
Jesus then goes on (verse 22) to illustrate what he means in three short statements. Even abusive language is condemned strongly:
Anyone who says 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.
All of this simply reminds us that in everything we do, whether in thought, word or deed, we are answerable to God. And his standards are very high.
I decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear. [Martin Luther-King]
Lord Jesus, forgive me when I have harboured hate or anger. Fill me with your Spirit and give me strength to live my life as you would wish. Amen.
David Long | |
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