19 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands(A) and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.(B)

Murder(C)

21 “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder,[a](D) and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry(E) with a brother or sister[b][c] will be subject to judgment.(F) Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’[d] is answerable to the court.(G) And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.(H)

23 “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.

25 “Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26 Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.

Adultery

27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’[e](I) 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.(J)

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Footnotes

  1. Matthew 5:21 Exodus 20:13
  2. Matthew 5:22 The Greek word for brother or sister (adelphos) refers here to a fellow disciple, whether man or woman; also in verse 23.
  3. Matthew 5:22 Some manuscripts brother or sister without cause
  4. Matthew 5:22 An Aramaic term of contempt
  5. Matthew 5:27 Exodus 20:14

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