Matthew 5:20-26

New Testament for Everyone

²⁰ “Yes, let me tell you: unless your covenant behavior is far superior to that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get in to the kingdom of heaven.”

On murder and reconciliation

²¹ “You heard that it was said to the ancient people, ‘You shall not murder’; and anyone who commits murder shall be liable to judgment. ²² But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment; anyone who uses foul and abusive language will be liable to the lawcourt; and anyone who says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to the fires of Gehenna.

²³ “So, if you are coming to the altar with your gift, and there you remember that your brother has a grievance against you, ²⁴ leave your gift right there in front of the altar, and go first and be reconciled to your brother. Then come back and offer your gift. ²⁵ Make friends with your opponent quickly, while you are with him in the street, in case your opponent hands you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you find yourself being thrown into jail. ²⁶ I’m telling you the truth: you won’t get out until you’ve paid every last copper coin.”