Home Group Study

Sermon Date: 8 June 2018

Text: Exodus 20:13; Matthew 5:21-26

Opening Discussion: There are some sins that torment only some of us, while there are others that are universal. Pride is a universal sin. So is anger. And, unfortunately, I’m sure most of us are good at both. Share with your group a memory of how anger has led to a broken/destructive relationship.

Observation

What does God’s word say?

As you observe what God’s word says, answer the following questions from Matthew 5:21-26:

•  How many abstract nouns can you find in Matthew 5:21-26? (An abstract noun indicates an idea, quality, or state rather than a concrete object.)
•  How many imperatives (commands) can you find in Matthew 5:21-26?

Read:  Matthew 5:21-26

What are your observations? What are the connections between anger and murder?

Meaning

What does God’s word mean?

“Thou shalt not kill.” Who is a murderer? Who decides? Christ tells us plainly in this passage that if we have any malice; hatred; ill-will or scornful anger against our brother, we are guilty of a breach of this sixth commandment. Jesus simply says it isn’t the issue of murder alone; it’s the issue of anger and hatred in our hearts. We cannot justify ourselves simply because we may not have physically killed someone. If there’s hatred in our hearts, we are the same as a murderer.  Matthew Henry in his commentary on these verses says “Christ showed the full meaning of this commandment; according to which we must be judged hereafter, and therefore ought to be ruled now. All rash anger is heart murder. “Thou fool,” is a spiteful, scornful word and comes from hatred. Malicious slanders and censures are poison that kills secretly and slowly.”

“God will accept nothing at our hands; no worship, no service that we can pay Him, if we are not reconciled to, and at peace with all the world. Not outwardly only, but in heart and soul.” (Thomas Adam.)                                                                               
Read:  Genesis 4:6-7; Ephesians 4:26-31; Galatians 5:19-21; James 1:19-20

What are your observations?

Application

How must I change?

•  Is there a Truth to be believed?

Why does reconciliation with a fellow believer take precedence over worshiping God (Matthew 5:23–24)? Are you willing to postpone worship in order to make things right with a brother or sister?

•  Is there an Attitude to be fostered?

Have you made excuses for your unrighteous anger? If so, what justifications have you used? Will you acknowledge YOUR unrighteous anger as sin? Will you confess your murderous words and actions to those that you have sinned against? Meditate on Psalm 66:18 and 139:23–24.

•  Is there a Behavior to be changed?

In those situations where you know someone is angry with you, have you done what you can to be at peace? Read Romans 12:18. Have you done your part to be at peace with your antagonists, in–laws, your ex, your parents, children, spouse, coworker, friend, and neighbor? If not, what will you do to pursue reconciliation with these individuals?

Closing Prayer: For forgiveness, reconciliation, contrite hearts and for grace to respond without anger and malice.  Praise God for his forgiveness through Jesus Christ, and his son’s perfect righteousness.

Further Study : Time permitting click on this link provided: https://lifehopeandtruth.com/bible/10-commandments/murder-sixth-commandment/