Resolve Conflicts

N.T. #49 "Resolve Conflicts"

April 14, 2023

Matthew 5-Part 19

LET IT GLOW

In the comparison of the command not to murder and the inner motive of heart hatred, Jesus tells us to be reconciled with our offended brother, then bring our gift or offering to God. If we recall someone has something against us, we are to leave the offering, then go make it right. We are to resolve a conflict and bring back into fellowship our fellow man or woman. Did you notice that He didn't mention who was at fault. After the reconciliation, then we are to bring our offering to God and free to do service for Him.

In verse 25, we are to agree with our adversary quickly, lest they take us to court. 

Adversary means an opponent (in a law suit); Satan (as the arch enemy).

We are to go out of our way to avoid legal conflicts before human judges. Otherwise, the accuser may hand us over to the judge, who will hand us over to an officer, and throw us into prison.  If that happens, we won't be free again until we have paid the last penny.

LET IT GROW

In Jesus' day, someone who couldn't pay a debt was thrown into prison until the debt was paid. Unless someone came to pay the debt for the prisoner, he or she would probably die there. It is practical advice to resolve our differences with our enemies before their anger causes more trouble. (Prov. 25:8-10)

If an offence we have done to our brother, in his body, goods, or reputation, be such as will bear an action, in which he may recover considerable damages, it is our wisdom, and it is our duty to our family, to prevent that by a humble submission and a just and peaceable satisfaction; lest otherwise he recover it by law, and put us to the extremity of a prison. (Matthew Henry)

Proverbs 6:3 b says, Now swallow your pride; go and beg to have your name erased. 

It refers to an agreement made between two people. Sometimes all we can do on our part is turn it over to Christ, the Judge. If it is at all possible, we are to be at peace with all.

To sum it up, we are to try to make peace right away before we have to stand before God.

LET IT GO

Keep us humble, Lord.

Give us wisdom how to handle matters so we honor You with our life.

Glory to the King of kings.