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“You have heard that it was said . . . but I say to you . . .” Jesus begins a series of six “contests” in which he questions the understanding of Scripture popular in his day. He proves himself to be the authority on Scriptural interpretation and application. The first misunderstanding of Scripture Jesus attempts to correct pertains to reconciliation. According to Jesus, mending fences and true conflict resolution involves more than an external/token gesture—it’s a heart issue. And until one has dealt with one’s anger and feelings at the deepest level, one still risks sinning against the Lord. Burned bridges and unmended fences can hinder worship and invite long-term consequences. But most importantly, pent-up hatred can erode one’s own heart. At some point, our negative feelings about others stops punishing them and begins punishing us.