Matthew 5:33-42 – UNDER CONTROL
So many people want to control what others do.
In this passage from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus shows us things that should be “under control” in our own lives.
OUR LIPS UNDER CONTROL – Vss. 33-37 – BY TELLING THE TRUTH
As wrong as it is, Jesus is not talking about taking the Lord’s name in vain in this passage.
He is talking about the truthfulness of the words that come from our lips.
Vows or oaths were not uncommon in the Scriptures. These oaths were to be done seriously, and with absolute truthfulness. Genesis 14:22-23, Jeremiah 42:5, 2 Corinthians 1:23, Matthew 26:63-64. The problem in Jesus’ day was people were making oaths about practically everything. So Jesus tells them to swear not at all. Instead, they were to simply speak the truth.
OUR LOVE UNDER CONTROL – Vss. 38-39 – BY TURNING THE OTHER CHEEK
To turn the other cheek in true humility is a real show of love.
Although the government is to carry out justice (Romans 13:4, Leviticus 38-39), a Christian is not to take matters into his own hands, but quietly surrender his “rights”.
OUR LAWSUITS UNDER CONTROL – Vs. 40 – BY GIVING OF YOUR POSSESSIONS
As we yield to the direction of the Holy Spirit in our lives, even lawsuits will not be a problem.
The cloak was essential clothing and protected by Jewish law.
If necessary, we must be willing to part with the most basic of necessities, and trust God to take care of us. Matthew 6:30-34
OUR LABOR UNDER CONTROL – Vs. 41 – BY GOING THE EXTRA MILE
Israel was under Roman rule. A Roman soldier could force non-Romans to carry his baggage for a mile. Jesus encourages us to do more than we are asked, even if we aren’t required to.
OUR LOANS UNDER CONTROL – Vs. 42 – BY SHARING WITH THOSE IN NEED
We can’t always give all that people ask, but we can usually help in some way when the need is legitimate.
These things will be impossible to do, unless we are under the Lord’s control. Ephesians 5:18, Romans 12:1