Discipleship Point
Matthew 5:21
21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’
Pondering Point
The Point: You shall not murder.
What does this mean?
Per Luther’s Catechism, we should fear and love God so that we do not hurt or harm our neighbor in his body but help and support him in every physical need.
Luther’s explanation to this commandment is pre-dated by one that Jesus gave in Matthew 5:21-26. The initial view is don’t murder; a deeper view: Don’t be angry; the deepest view: love your neighbor. God desires love and fellowship among His children; kindled anger and nursed hatred break fellowship. Where God would have us resolve our differences, many of us instead resolve to let differences get in the way of fellowship. We don’t just follow Jesus in a bubble, we follow Jesus alongside other disciples. Let’s not let envy, anger, bitterness or hatred destroy our fellowship in Christ.
Discipleship Prayer
Holy Spirit, thank You for the godly fellowship that I share in You with my brothers and sisters in Christ. Help us all appreciate this unique fellowship that You form in connection with Jesus. Let us be driven to preserve and deepen it. I also pray that You help us to recognize Your desire that we enjoy fellowship with others as well – at work or with family. Expand our fellowship – in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 119:137-144
- You are righteous, Lord,
and your laws are right. - The statutes you have laid down are righteous;
they are fully trustworthy. - My zeal wears me out,
for my enemies ignore your words. - Your promises have been thoroughly tested,
and your servant loves them. - Though I am lowly and despised,
I do not forget your precepts. - Your righteousness is everlasting
and your law is true. - Trouble and distress have come upon me,
but your commands give me delight. - Your statutes are always righteous;
give me understanding that I may live.
Read the versus of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Psalm 50:15
Call on me in the day of trouble;
I will deliver you, and you will honor me.
The Promise
John 6:63
The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you— they are full of the Spirit and life.
Pondering Point
When the going gets tough, the tough get… delighted in God’s commands, says the Psalm writer.