SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

Week of 9/8/2024

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The Sermon on the Mount

Anger & Reconciliation

Matthew 5:17-26

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Read Matthew 5:17-20. “Keeping the rules does not necessarily make you righteous -- it’s the Christ-likeness inside.” This is the main point of Pastor Jim’s sermon this week. Jesus wants you to understand that being His follower isn’t just about rules, it’s about Him having your heart.

• What does it look like for Jesus to ‘have your heart?’

Read Matthew 5:21-22. Jesus makes it very clear that anger towards someone is evil. You may not be a murderer, but what you do to people in your heart through hatred and prejudice will face judgment.

• Why do you think anger can be hard to control?
• How can you keep your heart softened towards people?

Read Matthew 5:23-26. The opposite of anger in your heart is a passion for reconciliation.

• What can we learn from the way Jesus responded to unfair treatment?
• How can you fight the urge to get back at people who mistreat you?
• How can you choose kindness and grace over having an angry spirit?

As stated above, Jesus is concerned about your heart. How can you live this week with Attentive Eyes, Linked Arms, and a Transformed heart? Let this be your prayer focus for this week.