Kingdom Righteousness: The Heart That Pleases God

Gospel Light Church

Matthew series #8

May 3rd, 2026

“Kingdom Righteousness: The Heart That Pleases God”

Matthew 5:21–48 (NKJV)

Six comparative / authoritative statements that Jesus uses to teach the multitude of people as he gives them a new understanding to what matters most to kingdom citizens.

INTRO: Beyond Behavior to the Heart

Jesus now raises the standard.

Religion says: “Change your actions.”
Jesus says: “Change your heart.”

“The law of God reaches far beyond the outward act—it judges the thoughts and intents of the heart.” – C.H Spurgeon

I. THE HEART BEHIND OUR ANGER (5:21–26)

*From murder to motive* – murder isn’t just an action, it’s an attitude.

Ephesians “4:26-27

Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath*, 27 nor give [a]place to the devil.

References the sixth commandment – “Thou shalt not kill” – Exodus 20:13

Jesus equates anger with the root of murder.

• Anger destroys relationships
• Reconciliation restores them
• “Raca”– an Aramaic term meaning “idiot”
• “You fool” – from the Greek word “Moros” – where we get the term moron. It describes lack of wisdom, spiritual carelessness, or moral worthlessness, often contrasting godly wisdom with earthly foolishness.

“Jesus shows that sin begins in the heart long before it is seen in action.” – David Guzik

• *Don’t let the sun go down on your wrath – Eph. 4:26
• If you don’t forgive or release your anger, then YOU will remain in that prison!
• Who do I need to forgive?
• Is there unresolved anger in my life?

II. THE PURITY OF OUR THOUGHTS (5:27–30)

*From adultery to desire* – adultery isn’t just an act, it’s an attitude.

Jesus exposes lust as a heart issue.

• Sin begins internally then moves externally
• Illustration – David and Bathsheba – II Sam. 11:2- “he saw a woman”
• Radical measures are required
• CUT IT OFF! Deal with SIN in a radical way!!

“Sin doesn’t start in the act—it starts in the imagination.” – Greg Laurie

• What am I allowing into my mind?
• What needs to be cut off or removed?

III. THE INTEGRITY OF OUR COMMITMENTS (5:31–37)

*From divorce to truthfulness*

• Deuteronomy 24 – speaks about divorce
• In Judaism over 2000 years ago the subject was controversial
• Adultery was spread over all the land during this time.
• Jesus speaks of faithfulness in relationships
• Simplicity in his speech but direct to the point.
• Divorce perpetuates adultery in this case.
• Marriage is sacred and the covenant binding.

Vs. 33-37

“A truthful man needs no oath—his word is his bond.” – C.H Spurgeon

• Making oaths, commitments and contracts.
• Let your YES be YES and your NO be NO
• Pay your debts, fulfill your obligations…be truthful and trustworthy.
• Am I trustworthy in word and action?
• Do I honor commitments?

IV. THE RESPONSE TO OUR ENEMIES (5:38–48)

*From retaliation to radical love*

A. Rejecting Revenge (v. 38–42)

• “Lex Talionis” – the law of exact retribution to limit vengeance in a public forum
• Human nature goes beyond getting even – we want to WIN / survive.
• Jesus is teaching them a brand-new system of behaviors for kingdom citizens
• Turn the other cheek
• Give them your cloak
• Go the extra mile
• Help others in need – be a good neighbor
• It is not about being passive or weakness

Kingdom people don’t retaliate—they reflect Christ.

B. Loving Enemies (v. 43–47)

• Going above and beyond to be Christlike
• Love your enemies
• Pray for those who hurt you
• Love beyond natural limits

“Anyone can love the lovable—but only a true Christian can love their enemy.” – Greg Laurie

• If you want to lighten the weight of the hurt and pain caused by others, learn to PRAY for them. Love them as your enemies.
• If God can forgive you for your worst offenses, then consider forgiving others for the same.

C. Reflecting the Father (v. 48)

“Be perfect…”

This means maturity—complete love.

“The goal is not flawless performance, but a heart that reflects the perfect love of God.” – David Guzik

The Standard that drives us to Christ

The Sermon on the Mount reveals something powerful:

**You cannot live this life in your own strength.

This standard is meant to:

• Expose our need
• Drive us to grace
• Transform us through Christ

It’s like looking into a mirror that shows not just your face—but your heart.

And when you see it clearly…

You realize you need a Savior, not just self-improvement.

SO WHAT?………………..

• Is your Christianity external—or internal?
• Are you managing behavior—or surrendering your heart?
• Do you reflect the Father in how you love others?