GPS Guide – August 5, 2019
DISAGREEMENT
Monday
Read: Matthew 5:21-23
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, ” (NIV Matthew 5:21-23)
Study: Jesus, in his Sermon on the Mount (his “platform,” to use a modern political term), startlingly widened the reach of the sixth commandment. (Exodus 20:13). He said contempt, shown by words that tear down and destroy others, is as morally destructive as the physical act of murder. Then he expanded on that idea in the strikingly different way he taught his followers to treat enemies. Avoid anger and revenge, he said. Offer God’s expansive love to everyone.
Prayer: God, as I take in your love, help me to better understand the many dimensions of the love you pour into me—and ask me to extend to others. Amen.