Thursday, October 29, 2009
Don’t Let It Go Too Far
(Matthew 5:25-26)
When human relationships become frayed, reconciliation remains the best, most Biblical answer. That’s why Jesus commanded us to approach our brother even if we merely suspect we’ve offended him (5:23, 24). That being said, it is possible that the initial approach could meet with rebuff or indifference. Is it proper to just give up in such a case? After all, we have done exactly what Jesus said with no apparent affect. Is it enough to make one approach and abandon hope if it is rejected?
The simple answer to these questions is “no.” In fact, Jesus said that if the grievance progresses, the sincere believer should make additional attempts at reconciliation—before the matter goes too far.
Today’s passage actually refers to individuals who are on their way to see a judge. Apparently, the initial attempt at reconciliation failed for some reason. The offended brother, believing he has legal grounds, has decided to settle the matter in court. Jesus said it should not be allowed to go that far. And you (yes, YOU) must do anything you can to stop it. You should “agree with thine adversary quickly,” meaning you should come to terms with the offended party before the matter goes to court. You should be willing to sacrifice your “rights” in order to keep the matter away from the legal system. (Jesus warned that sometimes the legal system exacts an unjust sentence. It’s unpredictable.) Paul instructed sincere believers to allow themselves to be “defrauded” rather than bring the matter to court (I Cor. 6:7). In other words, whatever you do, don’t let it go too far!
