Matthew 5:24

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Leave {G863} there {G1563} thy {G4675} gift {G1435} before {G1715} the altar {G2379}, and {G2532} go thy way {G5217}; first {G4412} be reconciled {G1259} to thy {G4675} brother {G80}, and {G2532} then {G5119} come {G2064} and offer {G4374} thy {G4675} gift {G1435}.

Complete Jewish Bible

leave your gift where it is by the altar, and go, make peace with your brother. Then come back and offer your gift.

Berean Standard Bible

leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.

American Standard Version

leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way, first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 5:24 is a profound teaching from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount that dramatically prioritizes interpersonal reconciliation over religious ritual. It instructs a worshiper, in the very act of presenting an offering at the altar, to interrupt their sacred duty if they recall an unresolved conflict with a fellow believer. The command is to first seek reconciliation with their brother, and only then return to complete their act of worship, thereby establishing a foundational principle that genuine devotion to God is inextricably linked to right relationships with others.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Jesus' radical reinterpretation of the Mosaic Law, often referred to as the "antitheses" (Matthew 5:21-48). Specifically, it immediately follows Jesus' teaching on anger and murder (Matthew 5:21-22) and the importance of addressing internal attitudes that lead to external sin. The preceding verse (Matthew 5:23) sets the scene: "Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee..." [Matthew 5:23](/matthew/5-23 "Matthew 5:23 - The Precedent for Reconciliation"). Matthew 5:24 then provides the direct command for action. This sequence emphasizes that the heart condition, particularly concerning relationships, directly impacts the acceptability of one's worship. Jesus moves beyond mere external obedience to the Law, demanding an internal transformation that prioritizes love and peace within the community.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Judaism, the Temple and its altar were the focal points of religious life and worship. Bringing gifts (sacrifices, offerings, donations) to the altar was a central act of piety, atonement, and devotion. These rituals were meticulously prescribed by the Law (e.g., [Leviticus 1-7](/leviticus/1 "Leviticus 1-7 - Laws of Offerings")). The act of offering a gift was considered sacred and direct communion with God. Jesus' command to *interrupt* such a sacred act for the sake of human reconciliation would have been startling and counter-cultural. It challenged the prevailing religious mindset that sometimes emphasized ritualistic performance over the ethical and relational demands of the covenant. The "brother" (Gk. *adelphos*) would typically refer to a fellow Jew or, in the context of Jesus' nascent community, a fellow disciple or believer, highlighting the importance of internal communal harmony.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 5:24 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the Sermon on the Mount and throughout Jesus' teaching. It underscores the **Priority of Righteousness that Exceeds the Scribes and Pharisees** (Matthew 5:20), demonstrating that true righteousness involves the heart and relationships, not just outward adherence to ritual. It also reinforces the theme of **Genuine Worship**, asserting that God values a pure heart and reconciled relationships more than external religious acts. This ties into the broader theme of **Internal Transformation** over external conformity, a hallmark of Jesus' teaching. Furthermore, the verse highlights the **Interconnectedness of Love for God and Love for Neighbor**, a principle Jesus would later encapsulate as the two greatest commandments ([Matthew 22:37-40](/matthew/22-37-40 "Matthew 22:37-40 - The Greatest Commandments")). The call to "first be reconciled" emphasizes **Active Peacemaking** as a core characteristic of kingdom citizens.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Leave (Greek, _aphíēmi'_):** This verb, G863, means "to send forth," "to let go," or "to leave." In this context, it is an imperative command to literally "let go" or "abandon" the gift at the altar. It implies a temporary cessation or suspension of the religious act, not its permanent abandonment, but its deferral until a more fundamental spiritual matter is addressed.
* **reconciled (Greek, _diallássō'_):** This verb, G1259, derived from *dia* (through) and *allassō* (to change), means "to change thoroughly" or "to conciliate." It signifies a complete transformation of a relationship from enmity or estrangement to peace and harmony. The passive voice ("be reconciled") implies that the worshiper is to allow this change to happen, actively pursuing it, whether they are the offended or the offender.
* **brother (Greek, _adelphós'_):** This noun, G80, literally means "a brother" (from the same womb). In the New Testament, it extends to encompass fellow believers, members of the same spiritual family, or even humanity in general. Here, it emphasizes the familial bond and mutual responsibility within the community of faith, making relational harmony a matter of spiritual kinship.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Leave there thy gift before the altar,"**: This phrase issues a startling command to halt a sacred religious act. The "gift" (G1435, *dōron*) refers to any offering brought to God. The "altar" (G2379, *thysiastḗrion*) is the place of sacrifice and worship. The instruction to "leave" (G863, *aphíēmi*) it "there" (G1563, *ekeî*) is an immediate, physical directive, underscoring the urgency and priority of the subsequent command.
* **"and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother,"**: This is the core imperative. "Go thy way" (G5217, *hypágō*) means to depart or withdraw, indicating a physical movement away from the altar. The word "first" (G4412, *prōton*) is crucial, establishing an absolute priority. Reconciliation (G1259, *diallássō*) with one's "brother" (G80, *adelphós*) is presented as a prerequisite for acceptable worship. It implies actively seeking out the offended party (or the one offended) and making amends.
* **"and then come and offer thy gift."**: Only "then" (G5119, *tóte*), after the reconciliation has been achieved, is the worshiper permitted to "come" (G2064, *érchomai*) back and "offer" (G4374, *prosphérō*) their gift. This signifies the restoration of the worshiper's standing before God, now unhindered by unresolved interpersonal conflict. It completes the interrupted ritual, but only on God's terms.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 5:24 employs several powerful literary devices. **Hyperbole** is evident in the dramatic command to interrupt a sacred act of worship at the altar. While not advocating for the abandonment of worship, Jesus uses this extreme scenario to emphasize the *absolute priority* of reconciliation, making a point that might otherwise be overlooked. The verse also relies heavily on the **Imperative Mood** ("Leave," "go," "be reconciled," "come," "offer"), conveying direct, non-negotiable commands that demand immediate action from the hearer. Furthermore, there is a clear **Contrast** established between external religious ritual (offering a gift) and internal relational integrity (reconciliation). Jesus elevates the latter as foundational, demonstrating that true piety encompasses both vertical devotion to God and horizontal harmony with humanity.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly reshapes our understanding of worship, revealing that our relationship with God cannot be compartmentalized from our relationships with others. It teaches that God is not merely concerned with the outward act of devotion, but with the heart and the state of our relationships. An unresolved conflict, a grudge, or an unaddressed offense acts as a barrier, not just between individuals, but also between the individual and God. This principle underscores the holistic nature of biblical righteousness, where love for God and love for neighbor are intrinsically linked. It challenges any notion that one can be right with God while being wrong with a fellow human being.
* [1 John 4:20](/1_john/4-20 "1 John 4:20 - Love for God and Brother")
* [Mark 12:30-31](/mark/12-30-31 "Mark 12:30-31 - The Great Commandment")
* [Romans 12:18](/romans/12-18 "Romans 12:18 - Living in Peace")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 5:24 provides a timeless and challenging call to self-examination for every believer. It forces us to confront the uncomfortable truth that our spiritual walk is not solely about our personal devotion to God, but equally about the health of our relationships with those around us. Before we engage in acts of worship, prayer, or service, Jesus calls us to pause and consider if there is anyone against whom we hold a grudge, or who holds something against us. This isn't about perfection, but about a willingness to actively pursue peace and reconciliation, even when it's difficult or uncomfortable. It reminds us that true worship flows from a heart that seeks to be pure and reconciled, demonstrating that our horizontal relationships with others are a barometer of our vertical relationship with God. This principle applies to all areas of life—family, church, work, and community—urging us to be proactive peacemakers.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **Is there anyone with whom I have an unresolved conflict or against whom I hold a grudge, even a small one?**
* **How might unaddressed relational issues be hindering my own spiritual growth or my sense of communion with God?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to initiate reconciliation with someone, even if I perceive myself as the offended party?**
* **How does this verse challenge my understanding of what constitutes "true worship"?**

### FAQ
**Does this verse mean I should literally leave church or stop praying if I have an issue with someone?**

Answer: While Jesus' command in [Matthew 5:24](/matthew/5-24 "Matthew 5:24 - Reconciliation Before Worship") is given in the context of a physical offering at the altar, the principle extends beyond literal ritual. It emphasizes the *priority* of reconciliation. It doesn't mean you should abandon all worship, but rather that the *spirit* of your worship is compromised if you are harboring unforgiveness or neglecting a broken relationship. The point is to highlight that God values relational integrity so highly that it takes precedence over even sacred acts. Therefore, it's a call to address relational issues *urgently* and *proactively* before engaging in worship, recognizing that a pure heart and right relationships are foundational to acceptable devotion. It's about the *attitude* and *action* of seeking reconciliation, not merely a legalistic interruption of services.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 5:24, while a command for human reconciliation, finds its ultimate fulfillment and enablement in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The very concept of "reconciliation" (Greek, *katallagē* in a broader theological sense) is central to the Gospel. Humanity, estranged from God due to sin, is reconciled to Him through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross ([Romans 5:10-11](/romans/5-10-11 "Romans 5:10-11 - Reconciliation Through Christ")). Jesus is the ultimate "gift" offered on the "altar" of Calvary, making peace between God and humanity ([Colossians 1:19-20](/colossians/1-19-20 "Colossians 1:19-20 - Christ's Reconciling Work")). Because we have been reconciled to God through Christ, we are now empowered and commanded to be ministers of reconciliation to others ([2 Corinthians 5:18-20](/2_corinthians/5-18-20 "2 Corinthians 5:18-20 - Ministry of Reconciliation")). Our ability to "go and be reconciled to thy brother" is not based on our own strength, but on the new nature and the Holy Spirit given to us by Christ, who Himself exemplified perfect reconciliation, even with His enemies ([Luke 23:34](/luke/23-34 "Luke 23:34 - Jesus Forgives His Executioners")). Thus, Matthew 5:24 is not merely a legalistic requirement, but a Christ-empowered invitation to live out the very reconciliation we have received, reflecting the heart of God in our relationships.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

James 5:16

Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Romans 12:17

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.

Romans 12:18

If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

Matthew 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.

Matthew 18:17

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.

1 Peter 3:7

Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with [them] according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.

1 Peter 3:8

¶ Finally, [be ye] all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, [be] pitiful, [be] courteous: