ANGER Part I

Over the next few days I will be posting my sermon notes from a message pertaining to the subject of anger. A subject I am regrettably all too familiar with (although forgiven, bless His name...). If you have anything to add, please feel free to do so.
Rev.

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I. A Truly Deadly Sin

This past year, we have seen more than a few notable examples of the damaging and potentially deadly effects of anger in our society. This year alone, there have been TWENTY TWO student related school shootings in America. It seems that not a day goes by where a high profile homicide doesn’t come over the news. This wave of violence has stretched from coast to coast. It is present in our homes, our workplaces, schools, and even in our churches. Just this August, a shooting at a church in Neosho, MO resulted in the deaths of three people. The FBI reports that, over 17,000 people were murdered in America in 2006. 334 murders were committed in MO.

Love is arguably the most powerful force in the universe; therefore, anger may truly be the most destructive.

II. Cain & Abel

It is certainly worth noting that the first sin recorded after the fall was motivated by jealousy and anger:

… so Cain became very angry and his countenance fell. ⁶ Then the LORD said to Cain, "Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen? ⁷ "If you do well, will not your countenance be lifted up? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door; and its desire is for you, but you must master it."

Gen 4:5b-7 (NASB)

Jesus takes this to the next level, warning us that if we have hatred in our heart toward someone that we are in serious trouble:

"You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' ²² But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca, ' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.

Matt 5:21-22 (NIV)