Tag: Jesus

Let Him Have Your Coat Also

Matthew Sermon on the Mount 2 Comments

Mt 5:40 “If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.”

Summary Notes
Say What?!

Jesus said that if someone is trying to take the shirt off my back that I should just give him the shirt and my coat too.  Does Jesus mean that I should give away all my possessions to bullies?!

Why would He say this?
Photo by Dawn Carlson – The Keweenaw Upper Entrance Light in Lake Superior, like all lighthouses, facilitate the transportation of goods and services on the water. Paying what you owe and then some is the foundation of Capitalism. Nothing happens without capital (money) and nothing BIG happens with out a lot of money. In our system few people or businesses have enough money to prepay for everything they need to move goods and to pay people for their time and services. Businesses borrow what they need in the near certain hope that they will sell their goods and pay what they owe and still have a profit. Without the lighthouses over the last two centuries shipping would have been very fraught with peril and the progress and prosperity of our Great Lakes states and country would have been much slower. The quote is from Adam Smith (1723-1790) who was a moral philosopher and is known as the Father of Capitalism. Click the link to find out why I like lighthouses: Why a Lighthouse? See the Photo Gallery for this and other images. 

There is a principle of Jewish law that states punishment for violent acts be in kind such as , “AN EYE FOR AN EYE AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.”  In a previous post I pointed out that the context was of judicial proceedings but the people were using this principle in personal matters.  I think this command is about debts, perhaps both financial and otherwise, and about the likelihood of an imminent judicial ruling against me.  The command also has implications about personal attitude.

There is no reason to think that this opponent is suing for my shirt unrighteously.  If I have wronged someone and they have a legitimate case against me then Jesus’ command has profound implications. 

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes.  By the way, I’ve reprinted some interesting comments that you can see if you scroll down there…

Command 16: “…let him have your coat also.”
REFERENCE:  

Mt 5:40  also Lk 6:29

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying,

CONTEXT: A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount 

Mt 5:38-39 “You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.‘  39But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.”

COMMAND FULL TEXT:  

Mt 5:40 “If anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, let him have your coat also.”

RESULT:  

No stated result except for two chapters later when Jesus came down from the mountain

Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

COMMENT:  

The saying, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH,’ comes from Old Testament law (Ex 21:23-25, Lv 24:19-20, Dt 19:18-21).  In the previous post (BLOG 14 & 15) I pointed out that the context was of judicial proceedings but the saying was being misapplied to personal attitudes.  This command is about the threat of imminent judicial ruling and again has implications about personal attitude.

There is no indication that this opponent is going to law unrighteously.  There are a few potential implications if I’ve wronged someone:

1.  My attitude should be humble and not defensive.
2.  I should more than satisfy the restitution I owe.

If however, your opponent is going to court using lies, deceit or forgeries against you, consider the cost of going to court in a counter-suit to recover what is rightfully yours. Worse damage may be done to your family and fortune if you pursue the counter-suit.  It might be better to simply buy another coat and shirt and be at peace with the matter. Jesus did not mention what to do if your opponent was demanding your house or business. These items matter to your family and livelihood and you might need to approach such a problem differently.

DEFINITIONS:  Key Greek Words

sue:  G2919  κρίνω  kree’-nō   —  Properly to distinguish, that is, decide (mentally or judicially); by implication to try, condemn, punish

take:  G2983  λαμβάνω  lam-ban’-ō  — A primary verb:  to take

have:  G863  ἀφίημι  af-ee’-ay-mee  — To send forth

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application and please share it in the comments

 If I’ve wronged someone, my attitude toward them should be humble.  I should more than satisfy my debt to them if possible.

RETURN TO COMMAND

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Please share a comment, question or perhaps another application for this command of Jesus.

Do Not Resist and Turn the Other

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Summary Notes
Say What?!

Jesus said to not resist an evil person and to allow

Photo by Dawn Carlson     The waves crash up into the Manistee Lighthouse when the wind blows.  Surprised by bad weather, many captains have saved their ship by turning into the deeper water and riding out the storm.  This is like turning the other cheek when faced with further injury.  However when the storm is truly horrific deeper water is no shelter.  In these cases fleeing to a safe harbor like Manistee is the best course of action.   Like most of life wisdom in the circumstances is vitally important to a good outcome.

someone to slap you again if they did it once. He said this in contrast to ancient Jewish law that states a  person found guilty of injuring another person must be punished in the same manner with which he or she inflicted damage.  The punishment was an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.

Why would He say this?

The context for punishing the guilty person was of judicial investigation and conviction.  Jesus’ command to not resist an evil person has the context of personal application. I think that He points out how inappropriate it is for people to personally apply the “eye for eye, tooth for tooth” principle.  The reason why is because the principle it is meant to be applied as a matter of law. 

Jesus then addresses a person’s’ private attitude involving humility and meekness (power under control). Jesus is not stating that moral evil or oppression are to be ignored.  Bible scholars say that the “evils” spoken of here are not necessarily morally evil but are difficult, humbling or uncomfortable.  I think that in today’s culture slapping someone in the face is morally wrong and especially if that someone is an authority figure; but this was not always the case in the culture of Israel, a Roman vassal state, where Jesus was speaking.  This command is about willing submission under authority even if it is painful or toilsome (but not wrong). This response is not my natural inclination – but the opposite!

There is nothing in this command to stop a person from creatively working to change the situation to make it better.

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes

 

12 “…do not resist an evil person…”
13 “…turn the other to him also.”

Mt 5:39

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain:

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT:   A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount:  

Mt 5:38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH.’”

COMMAND FULL TEXT:  Mt 5:39 “But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.”

RESULT:   No stated result except for two chapters later:

Mt 8:1 When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:

The saying, ‘AN EYE FOR AN EYE, AND A TOOTH FOR A TOOTH,’ comes from Old Testament law.

Ex 21:23-25  “But if there is any further injury, then you shall appoint as a penalty life for life,  24eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,  25burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.

Lv 24:19-20 ‘If a man injures his neighbor, just as he has done, so it shall be done to him:  20fracture for fracture, eye for eye, tooth for tooth; just as he has injured a man, so it shall be inflicted on him.

Dt19:18-21 “The judges shall investigate thoroughly, and if the witness is a false witness and he has accused his brother falsely, 19then you shall do to him just as he had intended to do to his brother. Thus you shall purge the evil from among you.  20“The rest will hear and be afraid, and will never again do such an evil thing among you.  21“Thus you shall not show pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.

In each of these Old Testament verses the context was of judicial investigation and proceedings.  Jesus’ command in Matthew 5:39 has the context of personal application. He points out the inappropriate personal application of this matter of law.  Jesus then addresses a person’s’ private attitude involving humility and meekness (power under control). Jesus is not stating that moral evil or oppression are to be ignored.  I think that in today’s culture slapping someone in the face is morally wrong; but this was not always the case in the culture of Israel, a Roman vassal state, where Jesus was speaking.  This command is about willing submission under authority even if it is painful or toilsome (but not wrong). There is nothing in this command to stop a person from creatively working to change the situation to make it better.

The “evils” spoken of here are not necessarily morally evil but are painful, humbling or uncomfortable for us. The responses that Jesus commands are not our natural inclination – but the opposite!  This command is difficult for me to reconcile.  It’s not human nature to tolerate an insult let alone an assault.  Perhaps the idea here is to think first about what just happened and why before reacting to it.  

DEFINITIONS: Key Greek words 

(word: Strong’s # Greek pronunciation — definition)

evil person:  G4190  πονηρός   pon-ay-ros’   —  hurtful in effect or influence but not evil in essential character, nor degeneracy

slaps:  G4474  ῥαπίζω   hrap-id’-ō  —   to slap with the palm of the hand

turn:  G4762  στρέφω   stref’-ō  —  to (literally or figuratively twist that is to turn quite around or reverse

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application and please share it

I must be mature by having the strength of character to consistently demonstrate a private attitude of humility.  I need to think honestly about why this person is acting badly toward me and perhaps work to make situations better rather than just reacting with bad behavior myself.

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Follow-up to Make No Oath

Follow-up Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments

My purpose in posting this follow-up and others is to demonstrate how I am applying Jesus’ command to my own life.  My  hope is that you will be encouraged to find a practical application for yourself.   

What Jesus Said to Do
Photo by Dawn Carlson    At night the Frankfort light is white and the nearby harbor lights have distinct flash patterns. The lights are a metaphor for yes (on) or no (off)  A mariner will recognize the lights as the Frankfort Harbor and no other because of the faithfulness of it’s “yes” and “no” communication.  I am not a mechanical beacon but I also am known for the faithfulness of my communication. What I mean is that I could be a lot more consistent to do what I say that I will do.  Lou Holtz quote is remarkably appropriate. This image and more can be found in the blog Photo Gallery.Photo Gallery.

Jesus said to make no oath but simply use “YES” or “NO.” An oath is typically a promise that invokes a divine consequence if broken.  

Say Yes or No and Mean It

This is something I really have to improve and I have a couple of examples to share.

Just last week I made a tentative appointment with my sister to meet. When circumstances came up that completely changed my week, I forgot about that appointment. She was very gracious, of course.  Fortunately I don’t do that sort of thing very often. But when I do, I don’t like myself for it.

Something I do quite often is to be late. I habitually depart for appointments with just enough time to be a few minutes late. The solution to this is what I call ”stupid simple!” All I have to do is leave in time to be 10 minutes early; but up till now I just don’t do it.

My Challenge

This week I will concentrate on how to be 10 minutes early for every appointment that is not work related. For work I need to be early but no more than five minutes early. This will be a good goal.  I’ll welcome anyone to check up on how I’m doing! 

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Make No Oath

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Summary Notes
Make No Oath
With no oath, a lighthouse is faithful with its "yes" (on) and "no" (off) communication.
Photo: Dawn Carlson    At night the Tawas Point light is known to flash white for 4 seconds.  The light is metaphor for yes (on) or no (off)  A mariner will recognize the light as the Tawas Point light and no other because of the faithfulness of it’s “yes” and “no” communication.  I am not a mechanical beacon but I also am known for the faithfulness of my communication of “yes” and “no.”  I could be a lot more consistent to accomplish what I say that I will.  See the Why a Lighthouse page for my reasons for using lighthouses on this blog.

Jesus said to make no oath but simply use “YES” or “NO.” When He said this, He was talking about divorce and about breaking vows. Do not make an oath (a promise that invokes a divine consequence if broken) is the simple meaning.  The reason why I should not make an oath is because an oath is ultimately tied to God and may be impossible to keep due to circumstances.

Make No Promises

If I say “Yes” or “No” to someone , my word should be sufficient and I should do as I’ve committed.  There is no need for me to swear it upon my grandma’s grave, for instance.  I don’t hear this kind of talk much anymore; but I have heard people say such things.  I’ve also heard them say things like, “…as God is my witness,” or, “…trust me!”  Jesus is saying all such added words are not good.  Eventually, I will not be able to keep a promise.   

Although this verse is not specifically about business contracts, the principle of following through with business promises is certainly applicable.  Actually, following through with action on any commitment I’ve made is applicable.

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes

 

12 “… make no oath at all …”
13 “But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ {or} ‘No, no’…”

Mt 5:34-37

CONTEXT:

Mt 5:31-33 “It was said, ‘WHOEVER SENDS HIS WIFE AWAY, LET HIM GIVE HER A CERTIFICATE OF DIVORCE’; 32but I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except for {the} reason of unchastity, makes her commit adultery; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.”
33”Again, you have heard that the ancients were told, ‘YOU SHALL NOT MAKE FALSE VOWS, BUT SHALL FULFILL YOUR VOWS TO THE LORD.’“

RECIPIENT: To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain,

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. 2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

COMMAND FULL TEXT AND IMMEDIATE RESULT:

Mt 5:34-37 “But I say to you, make no oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35or by the earth, for it is the footstool of His feet, or by Jerusalem, for it is THE CITY OF THE GREAT KING. 36Nor shall you make an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ {or} ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil.“

RESULT:

After Jesus concluded the sermon, two chapters later:
Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:

The verses immediately preceding this command are talking about marriage and divorce which is the breaking of a vow. Leviticus 19, Numbers 30 and Deuteronomy 23 state that a vow made to God is to be fulfilled. 

Lv 19:12 And you shall not swear by My name to a falsehood; nor shall you pollute the name of your God; I am Jehovah.

Nu 30:2 When a man vows a vow to Jehovah, or has sworn an oath to bind his soul with a bond, he shall not break his word; he shall do all that has gone out of his mouth.

Dt 23:21-23 “When you make a vow to the LORD your God, you shall not delay to pay it, for it would be sin in you, and the LORD your God will surely require it of you. 22“However, if you refrain from vowing, it would not be sin in you. 23“You shall be careful to perform what goes out from your lips, just as you have voluntarily vowed to the LORD your God, what you have promised.

This command is further instruction not to make promises with an oath because such an oath is ultimately tied to God and may be impossible to keep due to circumstances. Although this verse is not about business contracts, the principle of following through with business promises is certainly applicable.  Actually, following through with action on any commitment I’ve made is applicable.

DEFINITIONS: Key Greek words 

(word: Strong’s # Greek pronunciation — definition)

oath: G3660 ὀμνύω om-noo’-ō — to swear, that is, take (or declare an) oath

statement: G3056 λόγος log’-os — something said (including the thought)

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION: I encourage you to make your own application

When I say that I will do something, then I must make all reasonable effort to fulfill my words. I will become known by friends, business associates and even family members by how well I follow through with actions.   No oath will suffice for action; so do not use an oath.  Additionally, I already have difficulty keeping all of my commitments. Therefore, I would do well to think about it first before I say “yes” too hastily.

RETURN TO COMMAND

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

“Make friends quickly …”

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Summary notes
Leave – Go – Be Reconciled – Make Friends

Jesus’ command to, “Make friends quickly with your opponent at law…” is part of the same paragraph as the command to, “…leave your offering …and go …be reconciled…”  Therefore the two ideas are related. 

Previous post link: Leave Your Offering and Go Be Reconciled

Broken Trust Requires Proof
Photo by Dawn Carlson – The Poverty Island Light Station near Green Bay was first lit in 1875. In 1885 a fog signal was added to give this light station a “voice.” Mariners passing by the dangerous Poverty Island Passage at night or in the fog quickly learned that this light station was a friend to them!  Joel Olsteen’s quote is so appropriate to remember when reconciling differences. What I say and how I say it are so important. This image and more can be seen in the Photo Gallery.

When I’ve wronged someone their trust in me is broken so that my words and promises become meaningless to them.   Its only logical that they need some proof of my sincerity.  Reconciling with some people may mean more than just me saying that I’m sorry; I may need to also offer some kind of tangible consideration.  By “consideration,” I mean paying back what I owe them or giving back what I took if possible.  If the offense was a relationship issue, then beyond humbly seeking forgiveness I might consider what actions I can take to demonstrate my sincerity.  I suppose there are innumerable ways to say, “I’m sorry” and to follow up with action. 

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes 

COMMAND 9: “Make friends quickly …”

Mt 5:25; Also see Lk 12:58 which is a similar command in a different context.

RECIPIENT:   To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain.

Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT:  A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount: 

Mt 5:21-24 “You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.’ 22“But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be  guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother,  ‘You good-for-nothing,’ shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says,  ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty {enough to go} into the fiery hell.  23Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.”

COMMAND FULL TEXT AND IMMEDIATE RESULT:

Mt 5:25-26 “Make friends quickly with your opponent at law while you are with him on the way so that your opponent may not hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you be thrown into prison.  26“Truly I say to you, you will not come out of there until you have paid up the last cent.”

RESULT: 

After Jesus concluded the sermon, two chapters later:
Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29 for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

COMMENT: 

This is practical information.  When I’ve wronged someone trust is broken so that my words and promises become meaningless unless there is proof of my sincerity.  Reconciling with some people will likely involve asking forgiveness and restitution or some other kind of tangible consideration if property or money was involved. Restitution may have many forms.  If the offense was a relationship issue then humbly seek forgiveness.  

DEFINITIONS:  Key Greek Words – Removes ambiguity of the Bible text

(word: Strong’s #    Greek   pronunciation   — definition)  

make:  G2468  ἴσθι  is’-thee  — an imperative, be thou  

friends:  G2132  εὐνόεω  yoo-no-eh’-ō  — to be well minded

quickly: G5035 ταχύ  takh-oo’  — shortly implying without delay, soon or suddenly

opponent at law:  G476  ἀντίδικος  an-tid’-ee-kos  —  an opponent in a lawsuit

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION:   I encourage you to make your own application

There is an old saying that, “Actions speak louder than words.”  I should be prepared to “make friends” when I go to reconcile with someone.  Perhaps I will consider how appropriate it would be to bring proof of my sincerity with actions and/or restitution.

RETURN TO COMMAND

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB.

Follow-up to Leave Your Offering and Go Be Reconciled

Follow-up Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
See the Blog Post
What Jesus Said to Do
Photo Artistry by Dawn Carlson    Ships that have come and gone past the Fort Gratiot lighthouse since 1829 often overcame obstacles.   Aside from weather, the channel from Lake Huron to the St. Clair River requires some tight turns in the current to proceed without damage. Reconciling with someone whom I’ve wronged can also have obstacles to overcome. Obstacles such as distance, cost, lost addresses, faulty memory and hurt feelings can make reconciliation even more difficult. Its best to think about it , seek some guidance and practice first!  I like Michael Jordan‘s quote because it applies to this AND so many situations of life! This image and more can be found in the Photo Gallery. Click on the image for an explanation Why a Lighthouse

Jesus said in Matthew 5:24, ”Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.”

What!?

This command of Jesus is from the first century but it still has a powerful message for today.  When someone came to the Jewish temple in the first century to seek God’s favor they brought something to offer.  But Jesus was telling His disciples that if they were seeking God’s favor with a guilty conscience then they would do well to reconcile first. God was and is not impressed with a fine gift if the giver is mean to people.  Besides that, we know that the effect of a guilty conscience on the mind and body is not good. Stress is the result and long term stress contributes to cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal and immunological disorders of the body and anxiety and depression of the mind.

Have you ever offended someone in a big way?

Have you ever done or said some things that you knew were wrong and it offended someone? I have, and it bothered me so that I was sorry about it. This command has through the years reminded me that I needed to try to make things right. With a lot of humble pie I’ve made some apologies and even asked forgiveness on occasion. A wise person told me to do this in person or with a phone call and never use a letter. Remarkably some folks I talked to didn’t remember the event. Others were quite gracious and accepted the apology. Either way, the times I’ve done this have indeed resulted in peace for me. It was like I had finally paid a debt and was free of it.

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Leave Your Offering and Go Be Reconciled

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Summary notes
Photo artistry by Dawn Carlson The Fort Gratoit lighthouse is the oldest in Michigan. Ships have come and gone past this very structure since 1829. The channel from Lake Huron to the St. Clair River requires a skilled captain. The ship must make some tight turns in the current to safely enter and exit the channel without damage. Reconciling with someone whom I’ve wronged is similar in that it can be emotionally tricky and further damage to the relationship is possible. Perhaps I should think about it , seek some guidance and practice first! This image and more can be found in the Photo Gallery. Click on the image for an explanation Why a Lighthouse
Leave – Go – Be Reconciled – Then Come – and Present

This command to leave your offering and first go and be reconciled and then present your offering is complex because it has five instructions and involves first century Jewish religious practices. However the command is still remarkably relevant today because at its heart the command is about reconciliation of interpersonal relationships. 

In the Jewish religion at the time, worship of God took place at the temple in Jerusalem. The worshiper would bring to the temple offerings of animals, food, drink or incense for various reasons to be presented to God at an alter.  The temple was the only place prescribed for animal sacrifice and it was destroyed in 70 AD.  Therefore Judaism no longer practices this ritual.

Love God and Hate My Neighbor?

I cannot properly worship God and hate my neighbor.  Jesus stated in Matthew 22 that the second greatest commandment after loving God is to love your neighbor as yourself.” Romans 12:17-18 states that I am to never pay back evil for evil to anyone and if it is possible, so far as it depends on me to, be at peace with everyone.  Without reconciliation for wrongs I have caused there remains for me a lack of personal peace due to a guilty conscience. The effect of a guilty conscience on the mind and body is not good. Stress is the result and long term stress contributes to cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal and immunological disorders of the body and anxiety and depression of the mind.

Reconciling is an act of love

Reconciling with someone is not only for my benefit, but primarily for theirs too.  If someone has something against me that I have forgotten until now, then they are the one likely to be upset or angry about it rather than me!  Reconciling is a humble act of love on my part.  Humility is involved because I must recognize and take responsibility for my part in the dispute.  Brotherly love is involved because I make the decision and attempt to remove the cause of anger and ill will from the other person for their benefit.

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes

COMMAND:   “…leave your offering …and go; first be reconciled …and then come and present your offering.”

Mt 5:24

RECIPIENT:  

To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain
Mt 5:1-2 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him.  2He opened His mouth and began to teach them, saying…

CONTEXT:  My notes  about the context of this command  

A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount:
Mt 5:21-23  “You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be liable to the court.’ 22But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be  guilty before the court; and whoever says to his brother,  ‘You good-for-nothing,’ shall be guilty before the supreme court; and whoever says,  ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty {enough to go} into the fiery hell.”
23”Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you…”

COMMAND FULL TEXT AND IMMEDIATE RESULT:  

Mt 5:24  “… leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering.”

RESULT:  

After Jesus concluded the sermon, two chapters later:
Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

DEFINITIONS:  Key Greek Words – Removes ambiguity of the Bible text

(word: Strong’s #    Greek   pronunciation   —   definition)

leave:  G863  ἀφίημι   af-ee’-ay-mee   — to send forth; context implied meaning to depart from one place in order to go to another place

offering: G1435 δῶρον  dō‘-ron  — a present; specifically a sacrifice

go:  G2064  ἔρχομαι  er’-khom-ahee  — to literally or figuratively come or go

reconciled: G1259  διαλλάσσω  dee-al-las’-sō   — to change; to change the mind; to conciliate

brother: G80 ἀδελφός  ad-el-fos’   — literally or figuratively a brother (my personal belief is that this term is generic and equally inclusive of sisters)

come:  G2064  ἔρχομαι er’-khom-ahee  —  to come or go

present: G4374 προσφέρω  pros-fer’-ō  — to bring towards

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:  

In the Jewish religion at the time, worship of God took place at the temple in Jerusalem. The worshiper would bring to the temple offerings of animals, food, drink or incense for various reasons to be presented to God at an alter.  The temple was the only place prescribed for animal sacrifice and it was destroyed in 70 AD.  Therefore Judaism no longer practices this ritual. The principle that I cannot properly worship God without love for my neighbor also is still valid  because Jesus also said this:

Mt 22:36-40  “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?”  37And He said to him, “‘YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND.’  38“This is the great and foremost commandment.  39The second is like it, ‘YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’  40On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets.”

Romans 12:17-18 states that I am to never pay back evil for evil to anyone and if it is possible, so far as it depends on me to, be at peace with everyone.  Without reconciliation for wrongs I have caused there remains for me a lack of personal peace due to a guilty conscience. The effect of a guilty conscience on the mind and body is not good. Stress is the result and long term stress contributes to cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal and immunological disorders of the body and anxiety and depression of the mind.

But  reconciling with my brother is not only for my benefit, but primarily for his.  If he has something against me that I have forgotten until now, then he is likely to be upset or angry about it rather than me!  Reconciling is a humble act of love on my part.  Humility is involved because I must recognize and take responsibility for my part in the dispute.  Brotherly love is involved because I make the decision and attempt to remove the cause of anger and ill will from my brother for his benefit.

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION:   I encourage you to make your own application

If I have wronged someone, consider the part I had in it and take responsibility for that part.  I may hope, but must not expect that they will admit to their part.  I should seeking wise counsel before attempting to talk to that person or persons whom I have wronged, especially if there  are legal or financial issues involved and certainly if there is danger involved.  If I am accepted then peace will be won for both parties.  If I am not accepted then I have peace knowing I have done all that can be done for now.

The next command contains some important instruction pertaining to this one.  I’ll post it next week…

RETURN TO COMMAND

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Follow-up to Let Your Light Shine

Follow-up Matthew Sermon on the Mount 2 Comments
Jesus’ statements are still relevant.
Photo Artistry by Dawn Carlson    The Michigan City light is one of only two lighthouses of Indiana that are on the Great Lakes. It is a day mark that is illuminated by the sun during the day to inform mariners of their location. At night the light shines for the same reason. Once you know your current location you can then navigate to where you are going.  Jesus’ commands are like navigation markers for the human soul. This image and more can be found in the Photo Gallery. You can read about Why a Lighthouse by clicking on the picture.

I think that Jesus’ command to let your light shine is as challenging today as it ever was.  His commands are also just as relevant in today’s world as they were when He spoke them.  

Do I love people enough?

When Jesus spoke this command He was urging His followers to go out into the world and be positive influences,  I don’t know about you, but I feel challenged by this command.  Its easy for me to agree with it.  But then I immediately move on in my thoughts without stopping to consider the practical implication of what it might mean to let my light shine.   I think that it means I have to love people enough to care about them in practical ways.  But, there are big problems in the world like hunger, bad water, disease, poverty, ignorance, violence, lack of economic opportunity and the list is unending.  I am often caught up with my own agenda and sometimes realize how selfish and small my own agenda seems.  No matter how much I do for family and friends there are even bigger needs out there that affect millions of people and I’m doing so little or nothing about them.  Frankly, I think the answer to my question about if I love people enough is, “No.”  I don’t know if I can.

What to do?

I can however care more about the people around me and perform my commitments with excellence.   What can I do this week to let my light shine?”  I will review this command every day this week to remind myself to take notice of the needs of family and coworkers.  I can also apply the idea of being excellent by stepping up to do my job better and taking initiative to solve some problems without caring who gets the credit.  Like I said at the beginning, this will be challenging!

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

WhatJesusSaidToDo.com

Let Your Light Shine

Matthew Sermon on the Mount No Comments
Here are my summary notes
You are the light of the world
Photo by Dawn Carlson The South Haven Pier like all lighthouses shines its light after dark to aid navigation. People who work with integrity and skill are noticed as having a good reputation. The voice of such people is validated by their reputation. A good message helps people to navigate their lives.  South Haven Pier Winter Sunset and others are available from the Photo Gallery.  Also find out why I feature lighthouses in Why a Lighthouse.

Jesus called His many followers the light of the world!  He was on a mountainside teaching them  in the hearing of a very large crowd.   I think Jesus was urging His followers to go out into the world and be a positive influence to their families and friends, at work and in business and politics, and in every other relationship and occupation there is. 

Not merely a religious message

But He told these followers that the influence they are to have is not merely a religious message. He told them to live in such a way that actions of good work done with integrity and skill give them the credibility for people to listen to their message.   The message they were to bring to the world was, of course of monumental importance; it was the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  

A Contradiction?

Jesus told his followers later in chapter six that they were to do their good works in secret.  His instruction seems contradictory at first.  However, these verses are actually complementary rather than contradictory.  Jesus pointed out that the attitude for doing good to others must not be for self aggrandizement or showy self righteousness because these attitudes and actions have short lived rewards. Long lasting rewards come from doing what is right with humbleness and strength of character that is satisfied by meeting needs and with integrity that is practiced even when no one is looking.

Click here for my personal application and your comments link …or Scroll down for my full notes

COMMAND:   “Let your light shine…”

Mt 5:16

RECIPIENT:  

To the disciples in the hearing of the crowds on the mountain

CONTEXT:  My notes  about the context of this command  

A continuation of the Sermon on the Mount:
Mt 5:14-15   “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; 15nor does {anyone} light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.”

COMMAND FULL TEXT AND IMMEDIATE RESULT:  

Mt 5:16 “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

RESULT:  

After Jesus concluded the sermon, two chapters later:
Mt 7:28-29; 8:1 When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; 29for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.
1When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed Him.

DEFINITIONS:  Key Greek Words – Removes ambiguity of the Bible text

(word: Strong’s #    Greek   pronunciation   —   definition)

light: G5457  φῶς  foce — literally or figuratively luminous

shine: G2989  λάμπω  lam’-pō — to beam

MY COMMENTS AND NOTES:  

Contrast Mt 5:16 with what Jesus said in Matthew 6 (below) where Jesus commands me to do good works in secret. These seem contradictory at first.  However, when I asked the question, “How are these related and how do they make sense together?”, the solution became obvious.  These verses are complementary rather than contradictory.  In each case below Jesus pointed out that the attitude for doing good for others must not be for self aggrandizement or showy self righteousness because these attitudes and actions have short lived rewards. Long lasting rewards come from doing what is right with humbleness and strength of character that is satisfied by the meeting of needs and integrity that are practiced even when no one is looking.

Verses about doing good in secret

Mt 6:1-4 “Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven. 2“So when you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full. 3“But when you give to the poor, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4so that your giving will be in secret; and your Father who sees {what is done} in secret will reward you.”

Mt 6:6 “But you, when you pray, go into your inner room, close your door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees {what is done} in secret will reward you.”

Mt 6:17-18 “But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face 18so that your fasting will not be noticed by men, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees {what is done} in secret will reward you.”

MY PERSONAL APPLICATION:   I encourage you to make your own application

Hard work done with integrity and honesty is difficult to hide. Whether on the job, in the family or volunteering, someone will know who did what. The goal is to humbly conduct myself in such a way that when people notice what was done, they are more grateful for the result and give thanks to God or to those whom I represent than to me personally.

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB

Follow-up to Rejoice and Be Glad

Follow-up Matthew Sermon on the Mount 2 Comments
South Haven in winter with Psalms quote. Photo by Dawn Carlson:   If there is beauty even in the icy coldness of winter, then there can be gladness even if my detractors behave badly toward me when I do good things. See South Haven Winter and others in the Photo Gallery.

One important reason I decided to share my notes about what Jesus said to do was to demonstrate how Jesus’ statements are remarkably practical to follow in today’s world.  This has been my experience and I hope it will be yours.

I love this quote from the Bible’s book of Psalms. This is another idea from Jesus’ command to rejoice and be glad that is always applicable.  

I’ve had to learn

This image reminds me of a lesson that I have to keep learning over and over again.  I don’t like the cold and it’s easy for me to grumble about it.  In fact, it’s quite easy for me to focus on what I don’t like about alot of life and to grumble about those things in my mind and in my speech.  In this frame of mind, I can’t see the good things in life that are actually all around me.  For instance, the beauty in this photograph can too easily be ignored if I’m grumbling about the cold. I can be grateful and focus on the beauty even if I still don’t like the cold.  It puts me in a better attitude when I can do this. 

I have to be conscience about being grateful and rejoicing in the good things in my life. It’s natural for me to be cynical and to focus on the darker side of politics, work, people, places and etcetera.  I have heard that such thinking is natural because human nature is always looking for danger or threat as a matter of survival.  But this kind of thinking does me little good in 99% of modern western living.  If I want to be a likable person, if I want to encourage others, if I want to like myself and be content in my own circumstances, if I want better things to happen then I need to direct my thoughts toward gratefulness and rejoicing.  Directing my thoughts in a better direction is the only way to begin behaving in better ways to make better things happen.

Below, please share your comments , question or perhaps your own application for this command

© 2018 Christopher Carlson

WhatJesusSaidToDo.com

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