Sermon On The Mount: Why So Angry?

I. The Heart of the Law (Matthew 5:20–21)

II. Anger: Murder in the Heart (Matthew 5:21–22)

III. Reconciliation: The Heart of Love (Matthew 5:23–26)

IV. Two Kingdoms Contrasted

 Small Group Discussion Questions

1. Jesus teaches that anger in the heart is as serious as murder (Matt. 5:21–22). Where have you noticed anger or contempt in your own heart recently, whether toward a person, group, or situation? How does recognizing this as “murder” in God’s eyes challenge you to seek His transformation?

 

2. The Samaritan woman’s heart was changed by Jesus’ living water, despite her outward and inward sin (John 4:14). How does her story give you hope that God can transform your heart, even in areas where you feel stuck in anger or sin? What does it look like to trust Jesus daily to make your heart a “spring of living water”?

 

3. In the church example (Matt. 5:23–24), Jesus says to leave your gift at the altar and reconcile before worshiping. How might unresolved anger or grudges affect your ability to worship God authentically? What practical step could you take to ensure your heart is right with others before Sunday service or even before taking communion?

 

4. The sermon contrasts the kingdom of inner goodness (trusting Jesus for heart change) with the kingdom of rule-keeping (external righteousness). Where do you find yourself tempted to rely on “checking boxes” to appear righteous? How can you invite Jesus to transform your heart to love God and neighbor more deeply? 

 

5. God asked Jonah, “Do you do well to be angry?” when he wanted Nineveh judged instead of saved (Jonah 4:4, 9). When have you struggled to love an “enemy” or someone who wronged you? How does Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:21–26 challenge you to pray for a heart that loves like God does?