Jesus Teaches About Private Sins

Jesus took six important Old Testament laws and interpreted them for us. In these antitheses (direct opposites), Jesus dealt with the attitudes and intents of the heart and not simply with the external action.

• The Pharisees said that righteousness consisted of performing certain actions, but Jesus said it centered in the attitudes of the heart.
• Likewise, with sin: The Pharisees had a list of external actions that were sinful, but Jesus explained that sin came from the attitudes of the heart. Anger is murder in the heart; lust is adultery in the heart.

Sermon Summary

Key Points:

• True Righteousness: Pastor Will emphasizes that true righteousness goes beyond the superficial observance of rules and regulations, like the Pharisees who meticulously tithed even small spices while neglecting weightier matters of the law like justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). He quotes Micah 6:8, which highlights doing what is right, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.
• Antithesis in Matthew 5: The sermon focuses on the concept of “antithesis” in Matthew 5, where Jesus contrasts the common interpretation of the law with its true meaning. Pastor Will explains that Jesus corrects the Pharisees’ misinterpretations and reveals the deeper intent of God’s law. Examples include anger (not just murder), lust (not just adultery), and divorce (not for frivolous reasons).
• Turning the Other Cheek (Matthew 5:38-42): Pastor Will delves into the meaning of “turning the other cheek,” explaining that it’s not about pacifism or defenselessness, but about responding to aggression with restraint and refusing to retaliate in kind. He points out that a backhand slap to the right cheek was considered a grave insult, and Jesus advocates for a measured response that avoids escalating conflict.
• Self-Defense vs. Retaliation: The sermon clarifies that the Bible supports self-defense (Exodus 22, Luke 22:36) but discourages excessive retaliation and revenge. Pastor Will emphasizes that vengeance belongs to God (Romans 12:19).
• Going the Extra Mile: Pastor Will uses the example of Roman law, which allowed soldiers to compel Jews to carry their gear for one mile, to illustrate the concept of “going the extra mile.” He references a scene from The Chosen (Season 4, Episode 5) where Jesus and his disciples willingly carry the soldiers’ gear for two miles, demonstrating kindness and surprising their adversaries.

Conclusion:

Pastor Will concludes by urging the congregation to prioritize de-escalation and reconciliation in conflicts. He encourages them to follow Jesus’ example of responding to aggression with kindness and restraint, even if it means enduring humiliation. He emphasizes that true righteousness lies in reflecting God’s love and mercy, even towards those who wrong us. This approach, he argues, can lead to peace and conviction in the hearts of adversaries.