Final answer:
True, Jesus valued moral relationships and reconciliation over religious offerings at the altar, emphasizing the importance of forgiving and harmonious interpersonal relationships as a foundational aspect of faith.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question addresses religious and moral priorities, examining whether moral relationships are valued over religious rituals by Jesus. This can be found within the teachings of Christianity, and echoes the criticisms that some religious practices, like the buying of indulgences, neglect the more substantive and compassionate aspect of faith, such as helping the poor or oppressed. These criticisms can be seen in historical contexts, for example, the hypocritical behavior pointed out by abolitionists during the era of slavery, where some slave owners displayed piety in religious settings while practising inhumanity.
The Scriptures suggest that Jesus did value moral relationships and the reconciling with others as a higher priority than religious offerings. In Matthew 5:23-24, it's indicated that before offering a gift at the altar, one should first be reconciled with their brother if there is a conflict, highlighting the importance of interpersonal harmony and forgiveness over ritualistic practices.
Thus, the answer is true; Jesus indeed placed a higher value on being reconciled with one's brother, positing moral actions and relationships above the religious act of offering gifts at the altar.