The Life and Ministry of Jesus
“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in danger of hell fire. Matthew 5:21–22
He expounds the sixth commandment. Many thought that they kept this part of God’s law so long as they did not commit actual murder. The Lord Jesus shows that its requirements go much further than this.
It condemns all angry and passionate language, and especially when used without a cause. Let us mark this well. We may be perfectly innocent of taking life, and yet be guilty of breaking the sixth commandment! 1
Personal Encouragement
Your words do matter. Either you will build up or tear down. So build up someone today with words of grace and love. Repent of your harshness, anger, and foolish language. Remember, out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.
Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. 1 John 3:15
Words chosen wisely are words worth using.
A Prayer
Lord, I am thankful that You speak to me with the fullness of compassion and love.
1. Ryle, J. C. (1993). Matthew. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
