Show Don't Tell: Matthew 5:21-26

Instead of saying "Jesus taught that anger is like murder," feel the category collapse. "You have heard that it was said, 'Do not murder.'" Easy enough—most people in the crowd haven't killed anyone. They can check that box. "But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment." Wait. Angry? "Anyone who says 'Raca'—worthless—will be answerable to the court. Anyone who says 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell." Watch the self-righteousness drain from faces. Who hasn't been angry? Who hasn't dismissed someone with contempt? Jesus pushes further: if you're at the altar offering your gift and remember someone has something against you, stop. Leave your gift. Go reconcile first, then come worship. Settle matters quickly. Relationships before rituals. The heart, not just the hands.