Welcome to Season 4, Episode 6 of the UNTIED Podcast! Join Garrett Bernethy and the crew as they continue their study through the Sermon on the Mount, focusing on the powerful and convicting words of Jesus in Matthew 5 concerning anger, purity, and the condition of the heart.

Jesus challenges His listeners to move beyond surface-level righteousness and examine the deeper issues within. In this episode, we explore how anger can grow into destructive sin, how lust corrupts the heart, and how disciples of Christ are called to pursue holiness from the inside out.

“Anger & Lust”

A study of Matthew 5 and the deeper righteousness demanded by the King.

“Welcome to the UNTIED Podcast, where we unravel the knots of life with faith, wisdom, and encouragement—because together, we're here to untie from tradition and embrace truth through powerful Bible teaching!”

Before diving into the study, the guys catch up on life, ministry, preaching, family, and whatever has been cooking lately—both spiritually and on the grill! Expect some laughter, encouragement, and real-life conversation before opening the Bible together.

This week’s study continues through Matthew 5 and Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. In this section, Jesus exposes the danger of external religion that ignores the heart.

The religious leaders of the day focused on outward appearances, but Jesus reveals that true righteousness begins internally. Anger, bitterness, lust, and impure desires are not small issues—they are spiritual problems that separate people from God and damage relationships with others.

Thesis Text — Matthew 5:20

Jesus teaches that righteousness must exceed the superficial righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees. The kingdom of God demands transformed hearts, not merely outward compliance.

Anger and the Stages of the Heart

Jesus moves beyond the command, “You shall not murder,” and addresses the root behind destructive behavior—anger. In this discussion, we examine:

• The progression of sinful anger
• Bitterness and unresolved conflict
• The destructive power of words
• Why reconciliation matters to God
• The danger of contempt toward others
• How anger damages both worship and relationships

The conversation also explores practical ways Christians can pursue peace, humility, and reconciliation in a culture fueled by outrage and division.

The study also introduces Jesus’ teaching concerning lust and purity, emphasizing that sin begins long before actions are carried out externally. Christ calls His followers to guard both mind and heart.

What does this teaching mean for Christians today?

In this segment, the discussion centers on:

• Learning to control anger before it controls us
• Practicing reconciliation quickly
• Speaking with grace and wisdom
• Guarding the heart from sinful desires
• Pursuing holiness in thought and action
• Reflecting the character of Christ in everyday relationships

Jesus reminds us that true discipleship is not simply avoiding sinful actions—it is becoming people whose hearts are transformed by God.

• First Corinthians 8–10
• Romans 15:1–2
• Matthew 18
• James 3:1–10

Thank you for listening to the UNTIED Podcast! We hope this study encourages you to pursue a deeper righteousness that begins in the heart and honors Christ in every area of life.

Please send in your questions or comments—we would love to hear from you!

Be sure to Like, Follow, Share, and Subscribe.

Available on all major podcast platforms.