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The Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5-7
The Sermon on the Mount is perhaps the most well-known of Jesus’ dissertations. It was preached from a Galilean hillside near the sea of Galilee to a large crowd who had been following Him. In this sermon, Jesus teaches some of the practical matters concerning His kingdom.
Since Jesus was going about “proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom” (Matt. 4:23), we are safe in saying that the message from the Mount is about life in His kingdom as opposed to life under the Old Law. Jesus was not merely correcting false notions about the Old Law, He was issuing proclamations about His kingdom.
The Sermon on the Mount represents the high and lofty teachings of Jesus. It points us to behavior that is above the world, above hypocrisy, and reaching toward heaven itself. “For I say to you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven” (5:20). Our service to Christ must extend beyond outward show, coming from deep inside our hearts. The characteristics of the “beattitudes,” for example, can only come from one whose heart is where it ought to be (5:1-11).
The relationship of disciples to the world is stressed. Being “salt of the earth” or “the light of the world” is no small responsibility for a disciple, but by doing what God wants, we can lead others to Him (Matt. 5:13-16). Relationships with others is a vital part of the Christian’s life.
Most important is the relationship one has with God. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven” (7:21). Our concern, above all things, is to do the will of God and please Him.
The crowds recognized that Jesus taught with authority. We, as they, should be amazed at His teaching.
Discussion
1. How do we know that this Sermon is about the kingdom?
2. Why is this Sermon important to Christians today?
3. Discuss the “beattitudes.” What do they mean? What role should they have for us?
4. How did the Sermon show the authority of Christ? Why were the people so amazed?