The Missionary
The Life of a Missionary – Part 1

Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:21-32

Key Verse: Matthew 5:22

But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.

We have been studying the “light and salt” passages of Matthew chapter five.  As we move deeper into Jesus’ first sermon, we see Him get very specific as to what that means.  If you have time to read the additional scripture reading for today, you will see that it all deals with the missionaries relationships.  In Matthew 5:21 Jesus talks about our anger with another person.  God judges our hearts; therefore He sees our deep seated anger issues against someone.  Jesus reminds us that anger can mean the same as murder in God’s eyes.  Jesus suggested that we settle matters quickly to avoid such judgment (vs. 25).

            Jesus moves from hatred to lustfulness.  In Matthew 5:27 Jesus warns us that we don’t have to physically have an affair with someone to commit adultery in God’s eyes.  Again, God, being the only true judge, sees our hearts and its lustful thoughts.  God cares about our relationships with other people.  Whether it is anger that is destroying a relationship or lust, God grieves over His children not relating properly.

            Remember, all God’s children are missionaries because God has given us all a mission to accomplish.  No one can properly please God and accomplish that mission until he learns to maintain healthy relationships.

Father, please keep reminding me how important all the people around me are to you.  Help me relate to them in ways that honor you.  In Jesus’  name, amen.