Forgive Others

Jesus said to his disciples: "I tell you unless your righteousness surpasses those of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the kingdom of heaven. "You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, you shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgement. But I say to you, whoever grows angry with his brother will be liable to judgement, and whoever insults his brother, will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, 'You fool,' will be liable to fiery Gehenna. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the alter, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the alter, go first be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise, your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny."

Consideration: The message in this Scripture passage is very clear. Jesus is telling us that foolish anger and judgement of others in the slightest way will lead us to accountability. We must forgive others at all costs. If we fail to do so, we are liable to judgement.