In His message to the multitude, he repeatedly gave them one train of thought and then countered it with: “But I say to you…”
For example, Jesus said, “You have heard that it was said of those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ BUT I SAY TO YOU that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment…” (Matthew 5:21-22).
He also said, “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ BUT I SAY TO YOU that whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart” (Matthew 5:27-28).
Concerning marriage and swearing, again Jesus said: “BUT I SAY TO YOU…” (Matthew 5:32, 34).
And of course everyone’s favorite game changer is the instruction Jesus gave us concerning our enemies. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ BUT I SAY TO YOU, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Matthew 5:43-44).
Jesus raised the standard for us all. When it’s easy to be like the world, Jesus says, “Be different.”
So think twice today. Whatever you’re inclined to do, wait a minute and think about what Jesus would do in that same situation.
