Psalm 139:23-24 - Search me, O God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my anxieties;

24 And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

 

Psalm 24:3-5 - Who may climb the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place?

4 Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies.

5 They will receive the Lord’s blessing and have a right relationship with God their saviour.

 

Key text: Matthew 5:21-6:1-4

 

"The measure of a man’s real character is what he would do if he knew he would never be found out." – Thomas Macaulay

 

 

1. Deeds – Murder Begins in the Heart:

In reflecting on the words of Christ, we find a profound insight into the nature of character. It's not merely our external actions that define us, but the motives of our hearts. Christ teaches that harbouring anger towards others is akin to the root of murder itself. True righteousness requires reconciliation and peace, not just adherence to the letter of rules.

 

2. Desires – Adultery in the Heart:

Christ's teaching goes beyond the surface, delving into the depths of human desires. He warns against the danger of lustful thoughts, equating them with the act of adultery itself. This profound truth challenges us to guard our hearts and minds, recognising that purity extends beyond outward actions to our innermost thoughts and intentions.

 

3. Discontentment – Marriage is Sacred and Binding:

In a world where relationships are often treated lightly, Christ emphasises the sacredness of marriage. He condemns divorce except in cases of infidelity, highlighting the importance of commitment and fidelity in marriage. This teaching reminds us that our integrity and character are revealed not only in our actions but in our commitments and relationships.

 

4. Deceitfulness – Jesus Forbids Oaths:

Christ calls for integrity in our words and promises, cautioning against the use of oaths to deceive or manipulate. He teaches that our yes should mean yes, and our no, no – anything more comes from the evil one. This admonition challenges us to align our words with our actions, reflecting sincerity and truthfulness in all our dealings.

 

5. Discord – Go the Second Mile:

Contrary to the world's standards of retaliation, Christ calls us to respond with love and generosity. He encourages us to go above and beyond, to turn the other cheek, to give freely, and to love even our enemies. This radical approach to conflict challenges us to extend grace and kindness, reflecting the boundless love of our Heavenly Father.

 

6. Disposition – Love Your Enemies:

In perhaps one of the most challenging teachings, Christ calls us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. He reminds us that true sonship involves imitating our Heavenly Father's love and compassion. This transformative love demonstrates our character and reflects the nature of our Father in heaven.

 

7. Deeds – Do Good to Please God:

Finally, Christ exhorts us to do good deeds not for the praise of men but as an expression of genuine compassion and love. He teaches that our acts of kindness should be done in secret, with no desire for recognition or reward. This underscores the importance of authenticity and sincerity in our character and actions.

Prayer Point

Search me, O God, and know my heart. Try me, and know my anxieties;

And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. IJN

Father, You promised in Your word that You will give me a new heart and put a new spirit within me; You will take the heart of stone out of my flesh and give me a heart of flesh. You said You will put Your Spirit within me and cause me to walk in Your statutes, and I will keep Your judgments and do them. I receive the grace for the activation of this promise in my life IJN

 

In summary, Christ's teachings in Matthew 5:21-6:1-4 challenge us to examine the depths of our character. They remind us that true righteousness emanates from the heart and is revealed in our thoughts, desires, words, and deeds. As followers of Christ, let us strive for integrity, sincerity, and love in all aspects of our lives, knowing that true character is forged in the secret places of the heart.