Is Anger a Sin?

       Many people say one of the biggest problems with the nature of man, is his anger. There are countless books on the subject, therapists and psychologists make a very good living dealing with people with anger issues, and many churches have begun teaching that anger in itself is a sin. They teach that a good Christian does not get angry because he has nothing but love in his heart. However, this is not even a logical argument because it is in human nature, and okay to become angry, but it is how you deal with that anger that effects you spiritually. Even Christ Himself wasn't above getting angry, as we read in John chapter 2. In reading this incident though, we can see the example that Jesus gives us as to why He was angry, but also how we should handle it.
       In John chapter 2, Jesus has entered Jerusalem to observe Passover, and upon arriving at the temple, he finds what can be best described as a market that is set up on the grounds. Verse 15ff: "And he made a scourge of cords, and cast all out of the temple, both the sheep and oxen; and he poured out the changers money, and overthrew their tables." He then tells them in verse 16, "Take these things hence; and make not my Father's house a house of merchandise." Jesus was angry over what they were doing, but His actions were not sinful, because we know that He was sinless (Heb. 4:15). What He did, however, was stand up for what He believed, and stood for God. He does this many times in His ministry, standing for what is right, and showing those that were in error how they were wrong.
       Paul wrote in Ephesians 4:26 "Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down on your wrath". It is okay and natural to get angry, especially when someone mocks you for believing in God or standing for scripture, but he warns us to not let that anger smolder and build up. We are expected to stand up for what is right, even when it's unpopular, like the Bible is and always has been. But if we don't fight for God, and just let the argument alone, can we say we truly care for that other person's soul if we don't try to show them the truth? Ephesians 5:11 says that we should stay away from evil, and reprove those who spread it. 1 Corinthians 16:13 tells us we are to stand fast in the faith. How can we do that if we don't have a discussion when someone attacks God? And when they do, and they will, you might become angry, but be slow to anger, and use the Bible as your weapon. Not to hit someone with of course, but by using the scripture that God gave us to defend Him, and save souls.
       There are those out there that seem to be angry all the time, those that are looking for a fight and just love to argue, even when they're wrong. I used to be that type of person, but upon study of the Bible, I have learned not to argue out of anger, but with truth. And there comes a time when we must walk away from those who will not hear or reason, for a discussion will easily lead to an argument, but we must also be good stewards of our time. If we spend all of our time arguing with one who won't listen, how many have we lost in the process? I'm not saying we should ever give up, but probably approaching them later, after the seed has been planted, might be a better idea. We should also note what the Bible says about those who are angry all the time as well. Proverbs 14:17 Tells us to control our anger and not be foolish, and Proverbs 22:24 and 29:22 warns us to stay away from foolish anger.
       The reason why I wrote on this subject, is because it has become common place for those who don't love God or are not willing to listen to the Word, want to accuse Christians of being pushy, or just let all believe they want and leave well enough alone. In fact, the men at the temple that day asked Jesus what right did He have to do this. God has given us the right to stand fast in the faith, and fight for Him. What a wonderful present we are giving to Satan when we don't, because he doesn't need us to worship him, he just needs us to remain silent, and not spread the Word of God. Losing our temper is a tool of Satan's, but going the opposite is useful to him as well, but using our heads, speaking from our hearts and scripture is the last thing he wants. Fight the good fight of faith, and stand on the promises of God. Grace be with you.