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Matthew 5:23-24 Alterated gifts
by RS  admin@creationpie.com : 1024 x 640
1. Matthew 5:21-26 Divorcing the brotherly gift agreement
In the Sermon on the Mount, in Matthew 5:22-41, Jesus addresses the following.
2. Matthew 5:22 Paraphrase
Verse routeMatthew 5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. [kjv]

The difficulty of paraphrasing a translated verse with multiple meanings is not easy.

5:22: But I say to you. Whoever is [and remains] angry with the brother (Jesus) is liable for the judgment. Whoever says to the brother Raca (Aramaic word for fool) [rag, band aid], is liable with respect to the council (religious institution that uses that language). But whoever calls the brother (Jesus) fool (Greek word) is liable for hell fire. Additional (double) meanings: If Jesus (one of the many) is angry with the brother, that brother is liable for the judgment (as is Jesus who must then do that judgment) .... but whoever Jesus calls a fool (Greek word, in parables, sayings, etc.) is liable for hell fire (as is Jesus who must then do that hell fire).

Can Jesus implicitly and indirectly call the religious establishment "fools" by teaching the "truth"? Once the people know the "truth", it becomes obvious to them that the religious establishment is not teaching the entire "truth" and they thus appear as "fools".

[computer science teaching examples, Green Acres syndrome]

Information sign More: Matthew 5:22 The danger of brotherly anger
3. Matthew 5:23-24 Alterated gifts
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse route5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]

4. Matthew 5:23
   Matthew 5:23 
 All 
KJV: Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;
Greek: εαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου
5. Matthew 5:24
   Matthew 5:24 
 All 
KJV: Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
Greek: αφες εκει το δωρον σου εμπροσθεν του θυσιαστηριου και υπαγε πρωτον διαλλαγηθι τω αδελφω σου και τοτε ελθων προσφερε το δωρον σου
6. Good gifts and bad gifts
Verse routeMatthew 7:11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him? [kjv]
Verse routeει ουν υμεις πονηροι οντες οιδατε δοματα αγαθα διδοναι τοις τεκνοις υμων ποσω μαλλον ο πατηρ υμων ο εν τοις ουρανοις δωσει αγαθα τοις αιτουσιν αυτον [gnt]
Verse route… bona … filiis … [v]

The word "Gift" in German means "poison" while the word "gift" in English is a "present". Both have the idea of "giving" something to someone which is the origin of the words.
The ancient Greek word "δωρεά" ≈ "gift". The ancient Greek word "δῶμα" ≈ "house" and, in context, "gift". The idea of a "gift" can be good, bad and/or deceptive.
7. Bad gifts as good gifts
Verse routeMatthew 7:9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? [kjv]
Verse route7:10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? [kjv]
Verse routeLuke 11:12 Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? [kjv]

Would the religious establishment, deceptively, do any of the following?


Information sign More: A scatter-brained approach to the sting of a scorpion
Information sign More: Gifts to children
8. Matthew 5:23 If and when
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

Altar 1
The Greek is "if therefore" or "when therefore".
English has a distinction between "if" and "when" whereas in logic, they both express the same idea.
9. Matthew 5:23 Bring it on
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

Altar 2
The Greek translated as "bring" is that of "offering" or, literally, "carry to". The ancient Greek word "προσφέρω" ≈ "bring to or upon, apply to, lay upon".
The Greek translated as "to" is that of "on" or "onto". The ancient Greek prefix "επι" ≈ "on" as in the English word "epicenter" which is, literally, "on the center".

That is, you are "carrying to (offer)" your "gift" "on" the "altar".

Paraphrase: if therefore you shall offer (carry forward) your gift on (onto) the altar ...

The modern Greek word "προσφέρω" (pro-SFEH-ro) ≈ "offer".
10. Leviticus Offering
The ancient Greek word "προσφέρω" ≈ "bring to or upon, apply to, lay upon" is used two times in the LXX (Septuagint) with the meaning of "offering"

Verse routeLeviticus 1:14 And if the burnt sacrifice for his offering to the LORD be of fowls, then he shall bring his offering of turtledoves, or of young pigeons. [kjv]
Verse routeεαν δε απο των πετεινων καρπωμα προσφερης δωρον τω κυριω και προσοισει απο των τρυγονων η απο των περιστερων το δωρον αυτου [lxx]
Verse route2:14 And if thou offer a meat offering of thy firstfruits unto the LORD, thou shalt offer for the meat offering of thy firstfruits green ears of corn dried by the fire, even corn beaten out of full ears. [kjv]
Verse routeεαν δε προσφερης θυσιαν πρωτογενηματων τω κυριω νεα πεφρυγμενα χιδρα ερικτα τω κυριω και προσοισεις την θυσιαν των πρωτογενηματων [lxx]

11. Leviticus 1:14
   Leviticus 1:14 
 All 
KJV: And if the burnt sacrifice for his offering to the LORD be of fowls, then he shall bring his offering of turtledoves, or of young pigeons.
Hebrew: ואם מן העוף עלה קרבנו ליהוה והקריב מן התרים או מן בני היונה את קרבנו׃
Greek: εαν δε απο των πετεινων καρπωμα προσφερης δωρον τω κυριω και προσοισει απο των τρυγονων η απο των περιστερων το δωρον αυτου
Brenton: And if he bring his gift, a burnt offering to the Lord, of birds, then shall he bring his gift of doves or pigeons.
12. Leviticus 2:14
   Leviticus 2:14 
 All 
KJV: And if thou offer a meat offering of thy firstfruits unto the LORD, thou shalt offer for the meat offering of thy firstfruits green ears of corn dried by the fire, even corn beaten out of full ears.
Hebrew: ואם תקריב מנחת בכורים ליהוה אביב קלוי באש גרש כרמל תקריב את מנחת בכוריך׃
Greek: εαν δε προσφερης θυσιαν πρωτογενηματων τω κυριω νεα πεφρυγμενα χιδρα ερικτα τω κυριω και προσοισεις την θυσιαν των πρωτογενηματων
Brenton: And if you would offer a sacrifice of first fruits to the Lord, it shall be new grains ground and roasted for the Lord; so shall you bring the sacrifice of the first fruits.
13. Strongs - offer
14. Usage - offer
*G4374 *49 προσφέρω (pros-fer'-o) : from G4314 and G5342 (including its alternate); to bear towards, i.e. lead to, tender (especially to God), treat:--bring (to, unto), deal with, do, offer (unto, up), present unto, put to.
Word usage per chapter Words: προσενεγκαι προσενεγκας=3 προσενεγκε=2 προσενεγκη προσενεγκον προσενεχθεις προσενηνοχεν προσεφερεν προσεφερον=3 προσηνεγκα προσηνεγκαν=7 προσηνεγκατε=2 προσηνεγκεν=4 προσηνεχθη=3 προσηνεχθησαν προσφερε προσφερει προσφερειν=3 προσφερεται προσφερη=2 προσφερης=1 προσφερομεναι προσφερονται=2 προσφεροντες προσφεροντων προσφερουσιν=2 προσφερων

15. Usage - offer
The ancient Greek word "προσφέρω" ≈ "bring to or upon, apply to, lay upon", in the form used by Jesus here, is used one time in the GNT (Greek New Testament). When Jesus or Paul use a common word in a way that appears only one time in the GNT, one should look carefully at that word for double meanings, play on words, etc.

Another meaning of this exact word in the ancient Greek is "προσφέρης" ≈ "resemble".

Play on words: If therefore you offer [resemble] your gift on the altar ...

Do you "resemble" that remark? First known use is by Curly of the Three Stooges. This saying is often attributed to Groucho Marx.
Might you resemble a "gift" of mammon? (next chapter)

Information sign More: Matthew 6:24 A wealth of logical ideas on mammon
16. Matthew 5:23 Altar
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

Altar 2
The Greek translated as "altar" is also translated as "sanctuary" in some of the works of the early church fathers. The word comes from the Greek word for "kill" as in something "dead" that as "sacrificed".
 
What did the pastor say when someone complained about kids chewing gum in the sanctuary?


Future topic Details are left as a future topic.
17. Strongs - altar
18. Usage - altar
*G2379 *23 θυσιαστήριον (thoo-see-as-tay'-ree-on) : from a derivative of G2378; a place of sacrifice, i.e. an altar (special or genitive case, literal or figurative):--altar.
Word usage per chapter Words: θυσιαστηρια θυσιαστηριον=6 θυσιαστηριου=11 θυσιαστηριω=5

19. John 10:10
Verse routeJohn 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. [kjv]
Verse routeο κλεπτης ουκ ερχεται ει μη ινα κλεψη και θυση και απολεση εγω ηλθον ινα ζωην εχωσιν και περισσον εχωσιν [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "θύω" ≈ "offer in sacrifice, kill, slaughter". An example is "θυσία" ≈ "offering, sacrifice, victim" which is the basis for "θυσιαστηρίων" ≈ "altar".

Discuss: Who is the "great deceiver"? Can a case be made for (some) religious organizations acting as a "thief" to "steal" and "kill" and "destroy"? Provide examples.

Information sign More: Matthew 6:19-21: A treasury of treasures of which to treasure
20. Matthew 5:23 Gifts
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

A "gift" is something given, whether for good or not good. A similar word is "guest" and "ghost". There is an "if" for bringing a "gift" onto the altar. Does one need to carry a "gift" to the altar? Is there a "yoke of compulsion" to carry a "gift" to the altar?

Might Jesus be "angry" with you if you "carry (to offer)" a "gift" "on" the "altar" rather than doing something else that Jesus considers more important?

Information sign More: Matthew 5:22 The danger of brotherly anger
Information sign More: Matthew 25:38 Hosting strange and hostile guests and ghosts
21. Amos 5:21-22 Feast days and holocausts
Verse routeAmos 5:21 I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. [kjv]
Verse routeμεμισηκα απωσμαι εορτας υμων και ου μη οσφρανθω εν ταις πανηγυρεσιν υμων [lxx]
Verse route5:22 Though ye offer me burnt offerings and your meat offerings, I will not accept them: neither will I regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts. [kjv]
Verse routeδιοτι και εαν ενεγκητε μοι ολοκαυτωματα και θυσιας υμων ου προσδεξομαι αυτα και σωτηριου επιφανειας υμων ουκ επιβλεψομαι [lxx]

The English word "holocaust" comes, through French and Latin, from the ancient Greek word "ὁλόκαυστος " ≈ "wholly burnt" as in a "burnt offering".
22. Matthew 11:12-14 Exploring the Kingdom of Heaven
Verse routeMatthew 11:12 And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by force. [kjv]

It is not clear if what Daniel describes as the "kingdom" of "heaven" is related to what Jesus says.

Information sign More: Matthew 12:26-29 Snatching the raptured goods from the strong man
Information sign More: Parables and secret codes used and explained by Jesus
Information sign More: Daniel and the kingdom of heaven
Information sign More: Matthew 11:12-14 Exploring the Kingdom of Heaven
23. Barnabas 2.6 Yoke of compulsion
In the Epistle of Barnabas, the writer explains at length, quoting verses such as found in Isaiah (and elsewhere), to point out that Jesus removes the "yoke of compulsion".

English: Therefore he has abolished these things, in order that the new law of our Lord Jesus Christ which is free from the yoke of compulsion, might have its offering, one not made by humans. (Holmes, 2007, p. 383)
Greek: ταυτα ουν κατηργησεν, ινα ο καινος νομος του κυριου ὑμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, ἄνευ ζυγοῦ ἀνάγκης, ὤν, μὴ ἀνθρωποποίητον ἔχῃ τὴν προσφοράν. Epistle of Barnabas [2.6]
Any religious establishment that profits from that "yoke of compulsion" would not want the Epistle of Barnabas included in the canon. Another disputed book, Hebrews, was included. Interesting, Hebrews includes many verses that appear to support a "yoke of compulsion" while some verses in the Epistle of Barnabas appear to be mistranslated (to provide continued support for not including it in the canon).

Information sign More: Matthew 11:12-14 Exploring the Kingdom of Heaven
Information sign More: Epistle of Barnabas
24. Yoke of compulsion
The lack of need for a religious hierarchy or "yoke" of "compulsion" as Barnabas explains, from the teachings of Jesus about the "kingdom of heaven", would not have appealed to a human sand hierarchy interested in secular power.

Verse routeMatthew 11:30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. [kjv]
Verse routeο γαρ ζυγος μου χρηστος και το φορτιον μου ελαφρον εστιν [gnt]

The Greek for "easy" is that of being "useful" and is a play on words with the Greek word for "Christ". The word "yoke" means, literally, "two going together". The word for "burden" was also a word for "tax". What is the "tax" of the "yoke" of "compulsion"? Think "altars" and "sacrifices" and "money tables".
25. Matthew 5:23 Remember
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

The Madela Effect happens when many people falsely remember the same thing. It is named after Nelson Mandela who many people remember dying in prison in the 1980's.
26. Matthew 5:23 And there remember
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

Altar 2
Why does Jesus say "and there" when just an "and" would suffice?
You are here T-shirt: You are here
From context it is clear that you are "there" and not somewhere else.

Meaningless sign: You are here. You are not there.
27. Matthew 5:23 And there
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

There appears to be a play on words here (and not there). The words would have sounded similar but with an accent shift. People fluent in the language easily pick up on such play on words. Today these words are pronounced the same. At that time, they would have had a similar but not the same sound. That is, a play on words. Jesus uses the Greek word "and" as part of a play on words in many places. For comparison.

The modern Greek phrase "κακή ιδέα" (ka-KEE ee-THEH-a) ≈ "bad idea".
28. Bad play on word connection
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

Verse route6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. [kjv]
Verse routeμη ουν μεριμνησητε εις την αυριον η γαρ αυριον μεριμνησει αυτης αρκετον τη ημερα η κακια αυτης [gnt]

Back in Matthew 5:23, Jesus appears to make a play on words with "and there" being "bad". In Matthew 6:34, later in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus uses the word on which the play on words appears to be made - to insure that the connection, once made, is justified.

The word is not the usual Greek word for "evil" but the word for "bad" and, as used by Jesus, refers to those who are "harmed" and need the "Good News".
29. Matthew 6:34
   Matthew 6:34 
 All 
KJV: Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.
Greek: μη ουν μεριμνησητε εις την αυριον η γαρ αυριον μεριμνησει τα εαυτης αυτης αρκετον τη ημερα η κακια αυτης
30. Matthew 5:23,20 And there
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

For the play on words of "and there" with "bad", a feminine noun is needed for the feminine adjective form. Going back three verses one finds the word "δικαιοσύνη" ≈ "righteousness, justice" that is of feminine gender.

Verse route5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. [kjv]
Verse routeλεγω γαρ υμιν οτι εαν μη περισσευση υμων η δικαιοσυνη πλειον των γραμματεων και φαρισαιων ου μη εισελθητε εις την βασιλειαν των ουρανων [gnt]

31. Matthew 5:20 Righteous birds
Verse routeMatthew 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. [kjv]
Verse routeλεγω γαρ υμιν οτι εαν μη περισσευση υμων η δικαιοσυνη πλειον των γραμματεων και φαρισαιων ου μη εισελθητε εις την βασιλειαν των ουρανων [gnt]

Unlike an earlier verse, there is no "amen" or "verily" or even "blessed" starting this verse. The "righteousness" can be God's "righteousness" or man's "righteousness" (or both). Context is important.
Paraphrase: Except your righteousness (as defined by the birds) exceeds the righteousness of those birds, you shall not enter and/or be promoted as a member of that birdhouse.

Note that this alternate meaning does not make the traditional interpretation invalid.

[good and bad salt, good and bad light, good and bad houses]

Information sign More: Matthew 5:19-20 Righteous commandment breaking
32. Strongs - remember
33. Usage - remember
*G3403 *23 μιμνήσκω (mim-nace'-ko) : a prolonged form of G3415 (from which some of the tenses are borrowed); to remind, i.e. (middle voice) to recall to mind:--be mindful, remember.
Word usage per chapter Words: εμνησθη=2 εμνησθημεν εμνησθην εμνησθησαν=5 μεμνημενος μεμνησθε μιμνησκεσθε μιμνησκη μνησθηναι=3 μνησθης=1 μνησθησομαι μνησθητε=2 μνησθητι=2 μνησθω

34. Matthew 5:23 Remember
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

The second person singular (and plural) forms of the verb, as in many languages, can be used in two ways. There are some play on word possibilities here. Paul appears to use this play on word connection in Philippians.

Information sign More: Philippians 3:2-3 Possible solecism
35. Matthew 5:23 And there remember
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "κατά σου" ≈ "against you" as in being "down on you". Using the play on words, the verse is as follows.

5:23: If therefore you offer [resemble] your gift on the altar, [bad (righteousness)], remember [as a groom wooing a bride] that the brother of yours (Jesus) has some things against (down on) you (detailed in Revelation).

The next verses will indicate a better way that is in line with what "the" brother (Jesus) desires.

First, the Greek phrase "against you" is only used here and three times by Jesus in Revelation. This provides a hint as to the nature and substance of these things.
36. Matthew 5:23 Against thee
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

The ancient Greek words "κατά σου" ≈ "against you" as in being "down on you".

The ancient Greek prefix "κατά" ≈ "back, downwards, against, fully, completely". "σου" ≈ "you". Using the last word as a play on words, would be that the brother Jesus has something (and then some) against you. The two Greek words for "against you" are only used in Matthew 5:23 and in Revelation, to the churches at Ephesus, Smyrna and Thyatira.

Information sign More: Revelation 2:1-7 Ephesus
Information sign More: Revelation 2:8-11 Smyrna
Information sign More: Revelation 2:18-29 Thyatira
37. Matthew 5:23 The brother
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

Altar 3
If you have a lot of "brothers", is it very likely that at least one (or more) would have something "against" or "down on" you? Who is your "brother"? Who is your "neighbor"?
This is "the" (definite article) "brother". Perhaps "the" (definite article) "brother" is, as in a previous verse, Jesus. Might Jesus have anything "against thee"?

This phase for "against you" is used only four times in the GNT. It is used here by Jesus and three times by Jesus, one each in the letters to the churches of Ephesus, Smyrna and Thiatara. Since the "brother" could be Jesus, let us look at those usages.

Information sign More: Dative case in Greek
Information sign More: Matthew 5:22 The danger of brotherly anger
38. Revelation 2:4 To the church at Ephesus
Verse routeRevelation 2:4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. [kjv]
Verse routeαλλα εχω κατα σου οτι την αγαπην σου την πρωτην αφηκες [gnt]

HeartThe Greek translated as "left" is the word for "forgive" or "allow" or "let go".

They had lost their "first" "love". When Jesus uses the word for "first" there is often no second or third or later option.
In many cases, losing the "love" of Jesus results in a "love" of oneself. The "birds" will use a false light to attract "fish" from which "pigs" are recruited to keep everyone in line as the "birds" create their own "house" built of "sand".

Information sign More: Revelation 2:1-7 Ephesus
Information sign More: Matthew 5:15: This little light of mine
Information sign More: Matthew 5:13-16 Animal crackers
Information sign More: Matthew: Forgive the modern psychology bait and switch
39. Revelation 2:4
   Revelation 2:4 
 All 
KJV: Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
Greek: αλλ αλλα εχω κατα σου οτι την αγαπην σου την πρωτην αφηκας αφηκες
40. Revelation 2:14 To the church at Smyrna
Verse routeRevelation 2:14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. [kjv]
Verse routeαλλα εχω κατα σου ολιγα οτι εχεις εκει κρατουντας την διδαχην βαλααμ ος εδιδασκεν τω βαλακ βαλειν σκανδαλον ενωπιον των υιων ισραηλ φαγειν ειδωλοθυτα και πορνευσαι [gnt]

They held to the doctrine of Balaam. Balaam knew he could not go against God so he tried other ways to mislead Israel. The ancient Greek word "σκάνδαλον" ≈ "trap, snare" as in entice, tempt, etc., but is often translated as "stumbling block" is that of entrapping others, often by misleading logical arguments.

Information sign More: Matthew 11:1-6: Trapped by an offensive misinterpretation of Jesus
Information sign More: Matthew 11:6: Idiomatic misinterpretations that offend
41. Revelation 2:14
   Revelation 2:14 
 All 
KJV: But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
Greek: αλλ αλλα εχω κατα σου ολιγα οτι εχεις εκει κρατουντας την διδαχην βαλααμ ος εδιδασκεν εν τω βαλακ βαλειν σκανδαλον ενωπιον των υιων ισραηλ φαγειν ειδωλοθυτα και πορνευσαι
42. Revelation 2:20 To the church at Thiatara
Verse routeRevelation 2:20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols. [kjv]
Verse routeαλλα εχω κατα σου οτι αφεις την γυναικα ιεζαβελ η λεγουσα εαυτην προφητιν και διδασκει και πλανα τους εμους δουλους πορνευσαι και φαγειν ειδωλοθυτα [gnt]

The following issues are raised.
43. Revelation 2:20
   Revelation 2:20 
 All 
KJV: Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.
Greek: αλλ αλλα εχω κατα σου ολιγα οτι εας αφεις την γυναικα ιεζαβηλ την λεγουσαν ιεζαβελ η λεγουσα εαυτην προφητιν διδασκειν και πλανασθαι διδασκει και πλανα τους εμους δουλους πορνευσαι και φαγειν ειδωλοθυτα φαγειν
44. Matthew 5:23 Gifts
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]

Are any of these issues that Jesus has "against you" to any or all of the churches in Revelation relevant to the Matthew 5:23? Review of the other church issues. The "altar" and "against thee" verses are Matthew 5:23-24. The adultery and cutoff and divorce (fornication) verses are in Matthew 5:28-33.
45. Matthew 5:24 Forgive the leave
Verse routeMatthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]
Verse routeαφες εκει το δωρον σου εμπροσθεν του θυσιαστηριου και υπαγε πρωτον διαλλαγηθι τω αδελφω σου και τοτε ελθων προσφερε το δωρον σου [gnt]

Discuss: Are there examples of the "church" at any time throughout history doing the following? Some of these ideas will be elaborated on in verses to follow. Note: Part of the story of Jezebel in the OT (Old Testament) involves a form of inquisition to take Naboth's vineyard. Discuss whether any of the following fit the above categories.
46. Matthew 5:24 Forgive the leave
Verse routeMatthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]
Verse routeαφες εκει το δωρον σου εμπροσθεν του θυσιαστηριου και υπαγε πρωτον διαλλαγηθι τω αδελφω σου και τοτε ελθων προσφερε το δωρον σου [gnt]

The Greek for "leave" is the word often translated as "forgive" or "let go" or "allow". The word chosen can effect the meaning of the English translation. If you remember before you bring your "gift", should you even bother coming to the "altar"?

Modal box: Yes No Cancel
The results of a (computational) question in computer science are as follows: "yes", "no", "cancel" (bottom, ignore, not relevant, undefined, etc.).
If "reconciling" or "interacting" with your brother is never completed, then do you ever need to come back to the "altar" to offer the "gift"?

Future topic Details are left as a future topic.

47. Nothing is something: actions
Look and do Look not do Ignore
Many people think of actions as having two choices, "do it" or "do not do it" - a logical fallacy called "false dilemma". There is a third action that is at the heart of computer science.
Efficient algorithms in computer science rely on knowing when to look and when not to look.

Doing nothing is something and can be important.

Information sign More: False dilemma
Information sign More: Nothing is something: actions
48. Go away
Verse routeMatthew 4:10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. [kjv]
Verse routeτοτε λεγει αυτω ο ιησους υπαγε σατανα γεγραπται γαρ κυριον τον θεον σου προσκυνησεις και αυτω μονω λατρευσεις [gnt]

Verse route5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]
Verse routeαφες εκει το δωρον σου εμπροσθεν του θυσιαστηριου και υπαγε πρωτον διαλλαγηθι τω αδελφω σου και τοτε ελθων προσφερε το δωρον σου [gnt]

The first and second time Jesus uses "go away" in Matthew are in an interesting sense. In both cases, there is distance between the two parties or objects. Is there a deeper connection? Satan's "examination" (temptation) centered on "health", "wealth" and "power".

What are the connections between Satan's "examination" and a "gift" "on" the "altar"?
49. Strongs - go away
50. Usage - go away
*G5217 *76 ὑπάγω (hoop-ag'-o) : from G5259 and G71; to lead (oneself) under, i.e. withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively:--depart, get hence, go (a-)way.
Word usage per chapter Words: υπαγε=26 υπαγει=10 υπαγειν=6 υπαγεις=5 υπαγετε=14 υπαγη υπαγητε υπαγοντας υπαγοντες υπαγω=11 υπηγον=2


The ancient Greek word "ὑπάγω" ≈ "bring under, go slowly away" and is, literally, "lead under" and comes from two Greek words. The usage in the GNT appears to be that of "go away".
51. First things first
The ancient Greek word "πρῶτον" ≈ "first" and is the source of English words such as "prototype". Jesus uses the Greek word for "first" three times in the Sermon on the Mount. In each case, upon analysis, there is a "first" step but the "second" step, if any, deviates from what you might otherwise expect.

Verse routeMatthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]
Verse routeζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

Verse route7:5 Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. [kjv]
Verse routeυποκριτα εκβαλε πρωτον εκ του οφθαλμου σου την δοκον και τοτε διαβλεψεις εκβαλειν το καρφος εκ του οφθαλμου του αδελφου σου [gnt]

A PhD, "Doctorate of Philosophy" is considered a terminal degree and most (reputable) institutions allow a person to only earn one PhD. There is no second field. Jesus wants to be number one on a list of one and not number one on a list of ten.

Information sign More: Matthew 6: Seek to eat , drink and be married to Jesus
Information sign More: Matthew 7:3-5 Beams and motes: the devil is in the details
Information sign More: An actor as a hypocrite is not real
52. Matthew 6:33
   Matthew 6:33 
 All 
KJV: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Greek: ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν του θεου και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν
53. Matthew 7:5
   Matthew 7:5 
 All 
KJV: Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye.
Greek: υποκριτα εκβαλε πρωτον την δοκον εκ του οφθαλμου σου την δοκον και τοτε διαβλεψεις εκβαλειν το καρφος εκ του οφθαλμου του αδελφου σου
54. Matthew 5:24,16 Before the altar
Verse routeMatthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]
Verse routeαφες εκει το δωρον σου εμπροσθεν του θυσιαστηριου και υπαγε πρωτον διαλλαγηθι τω αδελφω σου και τοτε ελθων προσφερε το δωρον σου [gnt]

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Which is more important?
The Greek word for "before", as in "before" the "altar", was used by Jesus eight verses earlier. One is the allow the true light of Jesus shine "before" men so that without seeing you, the may see your good works.

Verse route5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. [kjv]
Verse routeουτως λαμψατω το φως υμων εμπροσθεν των ανθρωπων οπως ιδωσιν υμων τα καλα εργα και δοξασωσιν τον πατερα υμων τον εν τοις ουρανοις [gnt]



Information sign More: Matthew 5:16 Let the light of Jesus shine
55. Matthew 5:16
   Matthew 5:16 
 All 
KJV: Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Greek: ουτως λαμψατω το φως υμων εμπροσθεν των ανθρωπων οπως ιδωσιν υμων τα καλα εργα και δοξασωσιν τον πατερα υμων τον εν τοις ουρανοις
56. Matthew 5:24 Reconcile
Verse routeMatthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]
Verse routeαφες εκει το δωρον σου εμπροσθεν του θυσιαστηριου και υπαγε πρωτον διαλλαγηθι τω αδελφω σου και τοτε ελθων προσφερε το δωρον σου [gnt]

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The ancient Greek word "διαλασσω" ≈ "interchange, exchange". In context, it could mean "reconcile".
The "exchange" or "interchange" of ideas or opinions, etc., is in line with the conflict resolution protocols outlined by Jesus in Matthew 18 where the facts are gathered and reported without deciding who is right and who is not right.

Paraphrase: ... go away and first interact with the brother (Jesus) ...

Information sign More: Matthew 18:15-17 Conflicting and faulty resolutions
57. Strongs - reconcile
58. Usage - reconcile
*G1259 *1 διαλλάσσω (dee-al-las'-so) : from G1223 and G236; to change thoroughly, i.e. (mentally) to conciliate:--reconcile.
Word usage per chapter Words: διαλλαγηθι=1

The ancient Greek word "διαλασσω" ≈ "interchange, exchange". A play on words might be with the following after the prefix for "through". Less similar are the following.
59. Matthew 18:15-17 Conflicting and faulty resolutions
Verse routeMatthew 18:15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. [kjv]
Verse route18:16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. [kjv]
Verse route18:17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. [kjv]

Whenever there is a group of humans in close proximity, there will be conflict. In any distributed system, whether human or machine, there should be a conflict resolution protocol.

Jesus presents a fault tolerant conflict resolution protocol for groups of believers. The world has taken the opposite approach to conflict resolution within organizations.

The "against thee" and "his fault" were added in the TR (Textus Receptus). Omitting these words puts what Jesus says in line with the Lord's Prayer and the following verses on church conflict. Including them creates some logical continuity issues.

Information sign More: Matthew 18:15-17 Conflicting and faulty resolutions
60. Matthew 5:24 Come and go
Verse routeMatthew 5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]
Verse routeαφες εκει το δωρον σου εμπροσθεν του θυσιαστηριου και υπαγε πρωτον διαλλαγηθι τω αδελφω σου και τοτε ελθων προσφερε το δωρον σου [gnt]

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The ancient Greek word "ἐλθών" ≈ "go, come" comes from "ἔρχομαι" ≈ "go, come". English uses two words with different connotations for the same Greek word. Think "move"!
English implies a context. In Greek, the context must be inferred. In this context, both may have meanings and the meanings may not be the same.

Should translators (traitors, from the Italian saying) assume or take a point of view in their translations when the original language has multiple meanings, all of which can be true? The Italian phrase "Traduttore, traditore" ≈ "The translator is the traitor".

Information sign More: Everything being equal: To biff a translation
61. Matthew 2:8-9,23 Come and go
Verse routeMatthew 2:8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι πεμψας αυτους εις βηθλεεμ ειπεν πορευθεντες εξετασατε ακριβως περι του παιδιου επαν δε ευρητε απαγγειλατε μοι οπως καγω ελθων προσκυνησω αυτω [gnt]
Verse route2:9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. [kjv]
Verse routeοι δε ακουσαντες του βασιλεως επορευθησαν και ιδου ο αστηρ ον ειδον εν τη ανατολη προηγεν αυτους εως ελθων εσταθη επανω ου ην το παιδιον [gnt]
Verse route2:23 And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. [kjv]
Verse routeκαι ελθων κατωκησεν εις πολιν λεγομενην ναζαρετ οπως πληρωθη το ρηθεν δια των προφητων οτι ναζωραιος κληθησεται [gnt]

For each usage of the Greek for "go" or "went" or "come" or "came", which English words fit? Which English word fits best?
62. Matthew 2:8
   Matthew 2:8 
 All 
KJV: And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
Greek: και πεμψας αυτους εις βηθλεεμ ειπεν πορευθεντες ακριβως εξετασατε ακριβως περι του παιδιου επαν δε ευρητε απαγγειλατε μοι οπως καγω ελθων προσκυνησω αυτω
63. Matthew 2:9
   Matthew 2:9 
 All 
KJV: When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
Greek: οι δε ακουσαντες του βασιλεως επορευθησαν και ιδου ο αστηρ ον ειδον εν τη ανατολη προηγεν αυτους εως ελθων εστη εσταθη επανω ου ην το παιδιον
64. Matthew 2:23
   Matthew 2:23 
 All 
KJV: And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.
Greek: και ελθων κατωκησεν εις πολιν λεγομενην ναζαρετ οπως πληρωθη το ρηθεν δια των προφητων οτι ναζωραιος κληθησεται
65. Matthew 5:23-24 Gifts
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse route5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]

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The ancient Greek word "ἔμπροσθεν" ≈ "before, in front" and, in the case of time, "earlier"
66. Matthew 23:16-17
Verse routeMatthew 23:16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! [kjv]
Verse routeουαι υμιν οδηγοι τυφλοι οι λεγοντες ος αν ομοση εν τω ναω ουδεν εστιν ος δ αν ομοση εν τω χρυσω του ναου οφειλει [gnt]
Verse route23:17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? [kjv]
Verse routeμωροι και τυφλοι τις γαρ μειζων εστιν ο χρυσος η ο ναος ο αγιασας τον χρυσον [gnt]

Jesus uses the idea of "greater" in terms of "gold" and the "temple" in Matthew 23:16-17.

What might "gold" represent?
67. Matthew 28:19-20 The Great Mandate
Verse routeMatthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [kjv]
Verse route28:20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. [kjv]

Matthew ends with "The Great Commission" and uses the Latin word "mandani" ≈ "commanded" as in "mandate". The Greek translated as "nations" is that of "people". As you go through life, you should "teach" others what Jesus wants you to teach them.

Star Trek: .. to go where no man has gone before .... Jesus does not want you to do what is said in Star Trek. Jesus wants you ... to go where men have gone before - and give them the Good News ....

Information sign More: The mandate of Maundy Thursday
68. Matthew 28:19 Trinity
Verse routeMatthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: [kjv]
Verse routeπορευθεντες ουν μαθητευσατε παντα τα εθνη βαπτιζοντες αυτους εις το ονομα του πατρος και του υιου και του αγιου πνευματος [gnt]
Verse routeeuntes … docete … gentes … [v]

Trinity circle - spirit Trinity cube 1
This is one place where all three parts of the "Trinity" are explicitly mentioned.


Information sign More: Addition: mathematical dimensions of the Trinity
Information sign More: The mandate of Maundy Thursday
69. Romans 12:1
Verse routeRomans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. [kjv]
Verse routeπαρακαλω ουν υμας αδελφοι δια των οικτιρμων του θεου παραστησαι τα σωματα υμων θυσιαν ζωσαν αγιαν τω θεω ευαρεστον την λογικην λατρειαν υμων [gnt]

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An "alter" is a place where a dead "sacrifice" is made.

Paul appears to be explicitly stating what Jesus says in a more "quick witted" and "good mind" viewpoint (an important part of the next verse).
Will the religious establishment be upset about you not offering the gift they use to support themselves? What do you do? Jesus answers this question in the next (and following) verses, though some mistranslations hide the real meaning.

Information sign More: Matthew 5:25-26 Adversarial agreement
70. Daniel: Bel
The "Bel" part of the Apocryphal book "Bel and the dragon" is about how Daniel skillfully and tactfully demonstrates convincingly to his superior, the King, that he is being deceived by the religious elite who are using the required sacrifices to their own benefit.
Discuss: Daniel sprinkled dust on the floor so that the footprints of deception became obvious in the morning. Has Jesus sprinkled dust with what he said such that the footprints of the deception become obvious at a later time?

Information sign More: The idol Bel
Information sign More: Daniel: Bel
71. Romans 12:1
   Romans 12:1 
 All 
KJV: I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Greek: παρακαλω ουν υμας αδελφοι δια των οικτιρμων του θεου παραστησαι τα σωματα υμων θυσιαν ζωσαν αγιαν ευαρεστον τω θεω ευαρεστον την λογικην λατρειαν υμων
72. Matthew 5:23-24 Gift at the alter
 ▶ 
 + 
 - 
 1 
 2 
 3 
 4 
 5 
 6 
 7 

Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse routeεαν ουν προσφερης το δωρον σου επι το θυσιαστηριον κακει μνησθης οτι ο αδελφος σου εχει τι κατα σου [gnt]
Verse route5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]
Verse routeαφες εκει το δωρον σου εμπροσθεν του θυσιαστηριου και υπαγε πρωτον διαλλαγηθι τω αδελφω σου και τοτε ελθων προσφερε το δωρον σου [gnt]

73. Matthew 5:23-24 Review paraphrase
Verse routeMatthew 5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; [kjv]
Verse route5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. [kjv]


5:23: If therefore you offer [resemble] your gift on the altar, [bad (righteousness)], remember [as a groom wooing a bride] that the brother of yours (Jesus) has some things against (down on) you (detailed in Revelation).

5:24: Forgive yourself as the gift in front of the altar, go (flee) and first interact [through being in a different place] with the brother (Jesus) and then go (as in the Great Commission) and offer your gift (yourself as a living sacrifice) (as in doing good works before men).

Will the religious establishment be upset about you not offering the gift they use to support themselves and using their establishment only as a house of prayer? What do you do? Jesus answers this question in the next verse, though some mistranslations hide the real meaning.
74. Previous verse
Verse routeMatthew 5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. [kjv]

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Going back to the previous verse (i.e., reverse order), the previous verse starts to make more sense.
75. Matthew 5:25-26 Adversarial agreement
Verse routeMatthew 5:25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. [kjv]
Verse route5:26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing. [kjv]

76. End of page
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