As Paul continues to describe life as the new man, he gives four rapid commands concerning anger. These commands belong together: believers are called to righteous anger, yet they must not allow that anger to become sinful or give the devil an opportunity.
Righteous anger has a proper place. It is a settled opposition to sin that seeks to protect truth, pursue justice and restoration, and preserve the unity of Christ’s body. But even righteous anger has God-given limits. It must be dealt with quickly and transformed into loving action.
Unresolved anger gives Satan the opportunity to cultivate bitterness, hostility and division within the church. Christ, however, purchased the unity of His people with His own blood. Those who have been made new in Him are therefore called to pursue truth, forgiveness and reconciliation.
The question is not simply, “Am I angry?” but, “Is my anger building up Christ’s body, or tearing it down?” May we hate sin, love one another deeply, and refuse to give the devil even the smallest foothold.