The main subject in these verses is anger (26, 27, 29-31). Anger is an emotion that in itself is not evil nor godly. Anger in itself is not good nor bad. Anger is a natural emotional expression from the heart. Anger is a result. Anger is the plant springing from a seed. Many heart conditions can produce anger, and anger usually produces a reaction.
If the heart condition is impure, then the reason for and expression of anger will be impure and destructive. If a heart is pure, then the reason for and expression of anger will be pure and constructive. Therefore, all these facts about anger refers back to the previous verses concerning the need for a new attitude (23), a new heart (17), and a new way of thinking (18). Not meaning riding oneself of anger. Rather, what to do about and with anger.
The Lord driving Adam and Eve from the garden in anger was a pure reaction. Jesus cleaning the temple of a market in anger was a pure reaction. Jesus’ anger to the stubborn disbelief of the religious leaders was pure. Jesus’ reaction to the apostles often had a hint of constructive anger and compassion.
To a certain degree anger can be bottled up. However, often only bottling up anger creates a time bomb that often results in sin. Rather than containing anger, be sure to control the reason and reaction to anger. “In your anger do not sin.” (26)
If the motive and reaction to anger is impure, then quickly correct and amend the result of your anger (26). “Get rid of bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice” (31). Ask the Spirit to help transform and replace these with kindness, compassion, forgiveness (32).
