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. Matthew 5:21-22

* Also in the Old Testament Hebrew: “req”.

All of us have felt anger toward others, but not all anger leads to sinful actions. Here Jesus points out that anger nourished can lead to deadly practices. Those practices include labeling others and harmful gossip. Among other things, labeling kills initiative and relationships. Gossip leads to the killing of reputations and livelihoods. Both have ruined human potential and dimmed or extinguished stellar reputations.

Although the following passage in the letter of James is primarily aimed at those who teach scripture, it can be applied to any of us who are in a position of influence. I view it as an elaboration of Matthew 5:21-22.

Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.

How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and saltwater? Can a fig tree, my brothers, bear olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water. James 3:1-12 ESV

We live in a cultural environment where it is difficult to find peaceful conversation around certain topics. Words characterized by “restless evil, full of deadly poison” seem to slip out too easily.

None of us can avoid being angry – scripture records God being angry. But we can ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten us when we are tempted to nourish that anger and let it fester and overwhelm us, and even worse, to “take it out” on persons in our realm of influence with careless or malicious speech.

Here is a scriptural antidote to the all too human tendency of getting bent out of shape with poisonous thoughts to the point they spring a toxic leak upon those made in the likeness of God.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8 ESV

As you pray the Lord’s Prayer once again, recognize those of us who follow Jesus are on the same team. Let the prayer influence your thoughts and words about those in your path today.

Note. To access scripture links that don’t appear in the email version, read the web version in your browser,

Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:17- 20

The phrase “the Law and the Prophets” was Jewish shorthand for what Jews call the * Tanach, the whole Old Testament. “Law” was a reference to Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament, and “the prophets” was a “placeholder” for all the rest of the Hebrew Bible. Christians call all of those writings the Old Testament.

* The Hebrew Bible is often known among Jews as TaNaKh, an acronym derived from the names of its three divisions: Torah (Instruction, or Law, also called the Pentateuch),
Neviʾim (Prophets), and Ketuvim (Writings).

In reading Matthew 5:17- 20, I’ve tried to grasp why Jesus seemed so passionate about the value of the Old Testament. When I was new to the faith, I heard Christians talk about the reliability and inerrancy of scripture. Some adherents have acted as if the “beloved” King James translation had been dropped down directly from heaven. That view unsettled me and propelled me onward in my search.

An insight emerged as the most convincing reason for Jesus’ passion for the Old Testament: It is the carefully chosen record of God’s revelation of himself brought about by personal interactions and conversations with his followers over the centuries prior to **Jesus’ incarnation as the Messiah. God has always entrusted his revelations to obedient followers who love him.

** John 8:58, Colossians 1:17, Hebrews 7:3 and many other passages.

Here is a New Testament statement that advances that idea:

Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world. He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. Hebrews 1:1-3 ESV

This reverence that Jesus had for the Old Testament has been dismissed by more than a few charismatic leaders who believed they were appointed to begin a religious order that supersedes the Bible. Arguably, Muhammed, the founder of Islam, has been most successful in that regard.

A few years ago I encountered a book, Holy Books Have a History, by the scholar Keith E. Small. In that volume, Small shares his investigation of Muslims’ claims about the ultimate authority of the Qur’an. In Chapter 1 he compares those claims about how the Qur’an was delivered versus the way the Bible was written. He observes:

the Qur’an “presents the idea of a dictated book delivered by miraculous means to the prophet Muhammed from a heavenly original…while the Hebrew scriptures and the Christian scriptures…claim that they are the the writings of people on earth who were directed in their writing by God.”

In other words, the Qur’an claims its revelation to Muhammed was intact and basically untouched by human hands. while the tone and words of the Bible integrate the actions and thoughts of God with his people. ***

*** There is much more to say about how each Biblical author had his own style, but this is a short devotional.

As you pray the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-15 ESV) today, meditate on the plural nature of this prayer as well as its inclusive family language. Recognize that for nearly two thousand years this prayer has drawn the allegiance and sentiments of those faithful who were also devoted to the Old Testament.

…“Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.”

Our state of Colorado purportedly averages 300 sunny days per year. Studies have shown that availability of sunshine has more impact on mood than rainfall, temperature, or any other environmental factor. No wonder I became more positive after moving here!

Light affects the core of our being. So, when Jesus said to us, his disciples, “You are the light of the world….”, Matthew 5:14, it’s worth a deep dive into what he meant.

Light and darkness are the first contrasting elements mentioned in the book of Beginnings (Genesis).

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and he separated the light from the darkness. Genesis 1:1-4 NIV

The first thing I see in this account is that light is “good”. When God said “let there be light” that culminated with light separating from darkness, it implies that light invades, permeates and dominates. Could permeation be the main quality of light? Here’s a partial list of the benefits of light:

• Without illumination we can’t see at all nor can we see colors.
• Light is the sole source of food generation for all living organisms on earth.
• Sunlight provides the best source of vitamin D which is necessary for healthy bodily functions.
• The temperature of the earth would drop drastically without sunlight.
• Circadian rhythm from everyday light keeps plants and animals synchronized with the time of day or night.
• Light, especially its ultraviolet component, is an excellent sterilizing agent.
• Plants grow toward the sky as they are guided by the light.

In his gospel, John identifies Jesus as creator, mirroring the above passage in Genesis. Here John contrasts the light of Jesus with darkness and proclaims that the light of Jesus wins!

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:1-5 NIV

Later in his gospel, John records Jesus identifying himself as “the light of the world”.

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12 ESV

A couple I know who were pursuing a “New Age” spiritual path, were challenged when her mother observed, “The light inside you is darkness“’.
After that proclamation they encountered Jesus and began to walk with him. Since then, the light of Jesus inside them has illuminated many other people.

Using the above list of the benefits of light, meditate on the affirmation that “You are the light of the world”. How does Jesus’ light inside you spiritually illuminate those in your sphere of influence and give glory to “your Father who is in heaven”? Matthew 5:14-16 ESV

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Note. To access scripture links that don’t appear in the email version, read the web version in your browser.

As we continue our study of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, let’s contemplate the seventh Beatitude:

Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
Matthew 5:9 NIV

Several famous world leaders have included this observation in important speeches: “Peace is not just the absence of conflict.” This rings especially true when we discover that the biblical word for peace ”שָׁלוֹם” (Shalom) means “to make something whole”.

However, conflict and disorder are woven into this life. Even the most successful human relationships are marked with trouble. Conflicts can be sudden, can open or fester under the surface and later break out in unpleasant, dangerous, even life-ending manifestations. On the other hand, seemingly peaceful relationships can suddenly and mysteriously end when conflict remains unaddressed. Here are some words of Jesus to stimulate thoughts about our peacemaking role:

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. John 16:33 ESV

So, it is no surprise that Jesus commends the peacemaker. The Apostle Paul encourages us:

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Romans 12:18, NIV.

I think Jesus also aims at something deeper in this beatitude. In Isaiah 9:6 NIV the prophet identified Jesus in this way centuries before his arrival.

For to us a child is born,
to us a son is given,
and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called
Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

What is Jesus’ role as Prince of Peace? Briefly, he is the only one who can bring true, lasting peace, restoration, redemption, and reconciliation between you and God and others.

Salvation comes no other way; no other name [than Jesus] has been or will be given to us by which we can be saved, only this one. Acts 4:12 MSG

For this reason, when the Holy Spirit leads us in a peacemaking role, it’s valuable to remind ourselves that true reconciliation is found in the person of Jesus. Lasting peace reflects his Way and his heart.

How can the ordinary follower of Jesus be a peacemaker? A myriad of roles and professions come to mind. All these benefit from relying on the highest authority, Jesus; and some are even bolstered by worldly authority. Here are just a few roles and professions that qualify: parent, teacher, medical professional, therapist, pastor, law enforcement, athlete, legal counselor, tradesman, caretaker, military service – in short, just about any profession or role that doesn’t involve sinful or criminal activity.

As we steadily renew our minds, immersing ourselves in God’s word, and submit ourselves to his ways, we will find the Holy Spirit enabling us to be peacemaking sons of God in our own circle of influence.

Ask God if he wants to bring an unresolved personal issue to mind. (If nothing comes to mind, that’s OK.) The personal issue could be one of your own or that of someone in your realm of influence. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as you prepare for your peacemaking role.

You may find the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-15 ESV) helpful:

…“Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come,
your will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.”
For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Note. To access scripture links that don’t appear in the email version, read the web version in your browser.

It’s important to remind ourselves that Jesus was, is, and will remain the most intelligent human being and the most effective leader of people who will ever exist. He knows what we are made of and our vulnerabilities. Therefore, as we study his Sermon on the Mount, let’s assume he’s designed it to be grasped by the simplest soul as well as providing stimulation for the most gifted intellect.

Please notice three things about the Beatitudes (perfect happiness) which form the sermon’s introduction (Matthew 5:1-12 and Luke 6:12-22):

First, a fair portion of the conditions/qualities Jesus describes in the Beatitudes are negative results of the “Fall” described in Genesis 3.

Second, all but the first and last of these Beatitudes promise future rather than immediate benefits of following Jesus.

Third, in using the term “Blessed are…” Jesus characterizes members of the Kingdom of Heaven (his followers) in terms of a core identity rather than describing goals to be achieved.

For today, let’s consider the first Beatitude:

“Blessed are the poor *in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:3 ESV

*Note: the shorter version of the Beatitudes found in Luke doesn’t include “in spirit”.

Some readers of this Beatitude have furthered two unlikely interpretations. One view insists that “poor” refers strictly to physical poverty and therefore true disciples must divest themselves of as many earthly possessions as possible. Another speculates that all poor, needy people are Jesus in disguise.

Popular teachers sometimes minimize this Beatitude, promoting the idea that Jesus’ main aim is to make his disciples materially prosperous. Others map out weighty plans to eliminate material poverty for all humanity.

I advocate that we understand this Beatitude in the context of many scriptures. Take a look at such things as Jesus’ interactions with the poor, how the early church handled the poor in their midst, and the value of spiritual riches in Jesus. In short, resist making this and the rest of the Beatitudes a tidy “to do” list.

Here are just a few among many passages to contemplate:

Jesus’ interactions with widows (often the poorest of the poor): Luke 4:24-26, Mark 12:41–44, Luke 7:11-17.

How the early church handled (satisfactorily or not) the poor in their midst: Acts 4:32-37, Acts 5:1-11, Acts 6:1, I Corinthians 11:17-22

The value of our riches in Christ: Ephesians 1:3-14. (Every blessing bestowed, implemented and guaranteed.)

Again, end with The Lord’s Prayer:

…“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you,
but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. Matthew 6:9-15 ESV

Imagine yourself included in the intimate group of disciples just recently chosen by Jesus. You’ve witnessed him teaching:invigorating new perspectives on the Scriptures, followed by spectacular, unprecedented healings of both physical and mental illnesses. These powerful acts have prompted expanding crowds to follow his every step.

As reported in Matthew 4, Jesus prefaced his teaching with these words: “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven has come near.” Here’s my paraphrase for those squeamish about using the words “Repent” and “Heaven”:

“Turn around and face me, listen deeply, and follow me in my Eternal Kingdom Way.”

One day, in the midst of an assembled multitude, you hear Jesus call your intimate group of disciples together for a teaching session you sense is momentous. Will you eagerly embrace his teaching as you hear for the first time his majestic overview of the attitudes and lifestyle expected in his Kingdom?

During these next few weeks, as our inner thoughts are freshly challenged by the extraordinary Kingdom Jesus describes in his “Sermon on the Mount”, please reflect on the following short phrases:

After Jesus’ baptism, and before beginning his ministry, he was tested by the Prince of This World. Jesus repeated the following phrase before quoting pertinent Scripture to dismiss the power of evil:

“It is Written. . .” Matthew 4 ESV

As Jesus delivered the stunning core teachings of His Heavenly Kingdom to his disciples, he repeated this phrase as he confirmed he is the Messianic author/origin of what “is Written”.

“You have heard it said, but I say…” Matthew 5 ESV

Open your mind and heart to hear Jesus’ Kingdom overview as if you are hearing it for the first time.

For today’s exercise, meditate on the section of his Sermon on the Mount known as The Lord’s Prayer:

…“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.
Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you,
but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Matthew 6:9-15 ESV