²¹“You have heard what was said to people who lived long ago. They were told, ‘Do not commit murder. Anyone who murders will be judged for it.’ ²²But here is what I tell you. Do not be angry with your brother. Anyone who is angry with his brother will be judged. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ must stand trial in the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire in hell.

²³“Suppose you are offering your gift at the altar. And you remember that your brother has something against you. ²⁴Leave your gift in front of the altar. First go and make peace with your brother. Then come back and offer your gift.

²⁵“Suppose someone has a claim against you and is taking you to court. Settle the matter quickly. Do it while you are still with him on your way. If you don’t, he may hand you over to the judge. The judge may hand you over to the officer. And you may be thrown into prison. ²⁶What I’m about to tell you is true. You will not get out until you have paid the very last penny!

Read in Logos