contempt

“Raca.” This is a word from the bible that wasn’t even translated when it appeared in the King James Version. In Matthew 5:22 we read

and whosoever shall say to his brother, “Raca,” shall be in danger of the council.

“Raca” means, “empty one” or “worthless.” It is a term of utter contempt. Contempt is the finishing touch of anger. You are so mad at the other person that eventually he/she has no worth for you. We see this contempt all around us, in particular during the time of elections as we are experiencing now. No wonder this is called, “The Silly Season.”

The immaturity of adult public figures is astounding. The contempt that is shown is amazing. What used to be termed, “polite society,” is no more. So, for Christians, it is especially important not to fall into the world’s trap of contempt. We are called to:

Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself. (Philippians 2:3)

Why is contempt so dangerous? Because you become the type of person who cannot love. Cannot will the good of another. Jesus says if you love him you will do what he says (John 14:23). What he says is, “Love others.”

Contempt is also dangerous because it is so addictive. It makes you feel so superior. By having utter contempt for someone it must mean that you are personally so much better. It places you in the absolutely worst situation possible to ever grow in faith.