Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount 1-16
Jesus was masterful at teaching the crowds. Verses 3-12 are considered the 9 beatitudes with each beginning containing a pronouncement of blessing following statements of encouragement. They each have their root in doing that which is right and being mindful of the intent and motive of the heart while doing it.
Living “rightly,” before others is like shining light on their dark ways, which hopefully will cause them to turn to the light and live rightly.
Fulfillment of the Law 17-20
Jesus has come to bring to perfection the Law of Moses and fulfill it.
Anger 21-26
The motive of the heart is very significant to God. Committing an act, whether good or bad starts in the heart and the inner most thoughts. Anger is comparable to the act of murder. Belittling insulting and even cursing other believers warrants severe judgement.
Adultery 27-31
Lusting after someone with sensuous motives is comparable to committing adultery. Again, its all a matter of the intents of the heart and even the inner most thoughts of the soul. Whatever causes you to sin, get rid of it right away for it has a huge impact on the scope of where you’ll spend your eternity.
Making Oaths 33-42
Don’t bind yourself to anything at all. Just say yes or no as a response to a question.
Love Your Enemies 43-48
Love your enemies and bless those who curse you and do something good to those who hate you. These are actions that are against out first instincts, but Jesus was trying to tell us what characteristics determine if one really belongs to the Father in Heaven. We should be as Him, because He is merciful to those who do good and those who do bad.
Summary
- Let your light shine don’t hide (verse 16)
- Live, walk and teach the law (verse 20)
- Deal with your issues (verse 29-30)
- Sin is committed first in the heart (verse 28)
- Don’t be ashamed to praise His name (verse 12)
- Don’t swear (verse 34)
- Be not partial in love (verse 44-48)
- Don’t make an oath you can’t keep (33)
- Be quick to reconcile offenses (24)
