The Way Of The King.
Week #5: Jesus On Anger.
Opening Reflection.
Where have you seen God’s Kingdom at work in your life this week?
Or how have you experienced The Way of The King in your life this week?
Share any brief examples and encouragements.
‘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.” 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.’
‘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 in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. ‘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. Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.’
Matthew 5:21-22
Matthew 5:23-26
1. “Raca” was an Aramaic term of contempt, It was a bit like saying, “You … idiot!” (In contemporary English, this really needs an added expletive to have the same impact as “Raca!” would have had back in the day.)
- Have you ever said things designed to belittle someone, diminish them, or make them feel stupid?
- How did it make youfeel?
- Why do we do this?
2. Saying, “You fool!” (as the NIV puts it) was to call someone “moros,” meaning “a dull and worthless reprobate,” or “a persistent rebel against God.” It was literally to condemn them as a “damned fool!” – with the original sense of “damned” as “someone utterly rejected by God.”
-Why do you think Jesus particularly condemns this kind of talk?
3. Is it ever OK to be angry?
- What do you think Jesus meant? Was he really equating being angry with murder?
- Why is giving in to anger such a dangerous thing?
4. As Christians, what sorts of gifts do we bring as “offerings on the altar?”
5. Why is it important to be reconciled to others before we worship?
- Why is it so hard?
6. Can you think of anyone whom you have offended and who still has anything against you?
- Has anyone offended you?
- Can you think of anything you could do to begin to bring healing and reconciliation?
Closing Reflection.
What elements of the Kingdom of God from this passage would you like to see more of in your life over this next week?
Is there anything you will take away from this study and discussion? What has stood out that you can take into your week ahead?
Pray together (in pairs or small groups) for each other, in response to your answers.
