Introduction: In this part of the Sermon on the
Mountain, one of, if not, THE GREATEST SERMON ever
was preached. In it, we find the need for certain conduct. Influence
is illustrated by salt and light (vs. 13-16). We are taught the
relationship of Christ to the Law of Moses. He came to fulfill it — bringing
it to completion (vs. 17-20). The point is made that the very smallest part shall not be
done away until it be brought to completion. He contrasts
the Law of Moses and His in the treatment of
others and sexual misconduct, getting to the “heart” of each matter.
Jesus speaks of the superiority of His teachings over the law of
Moses that the Israelites had been under for 1500 years. He uses the phrase “you have heard,”
referring to Law of Moses, and then contrasts it with “But
I say..” to refer to His message that was to govern citizens in His kingdom.
1. He distinguishes between the Law of Moses and His teachings in the treatment of each other (Vs. 2,10,26.) Where the Law forbids murder, taking a life of another, Jesus goes to the heart of the matter. Being angry without a cause is dangerous, having severe consequences (v. 22). Continuing, Jesus emphasizes the need to take care of all differences between brethren before one attempts to worship God (vs. 23-24).
2. Advise is given to agree with one’s adversary quickly
(vs. 25-26). If one is in the wrong, he/she should admit it quickly and deal justly with
it, before greater damage is done. That is a problem that each of us should take heed and
follow His teachings. If that is done, there would be much more resources with which to do
good. When one is in the wrong, the quicker it is dealt with justly, the less damage will
be suffered.
3. Sexual purity has been God’s desire from the beginning
and violations bring one His displeasure and separation from Him. Again, as in other
matters, He goes to the deeper part of the matter, where the overt action springs from,
the HEART! One is NOT to look upon one of the opposite sex to lust after them (Vs. 27-28).
To do so is to commit adultery. As we know, if one sets his her heart to do something, a
way will be found to participate.
4. Jesus deals with the seriousness of allowing a member of the
body to get involved in sin. It is better to go through life without a certain member than
to suffer the consequences of an entering eternity --the world to come — by dying
guilty of sin and forever living in punishment.(Vs. 29-30)
Questions:
1. How
is the INFLUENCE of the citizen of the Kingdom illustrated? By what two simple
factors?
2. What
was Jesus’ mission in regard to the Law of Moses>
3. Is it
possible for the smallest part of God’s relation to fail, i.e. not happen as
promised?
4. What
phrase is often used to contrast His teachings with that of the Law of Moses?
5. Did
the Jews always have the right view of what God has said in the law of Moses?
6.
According to Matthew 5:22-24, can a person worship God acceptably without trying to be
reconciled to a brother??
7. When
should one agree with his adversary? (Matt. 5:25-26)?
8. Where
does “adultery” originate? (Matt. 5:27-28)?
9. What
is worse than losing a member of the body? (Matt. 5:29-30)?
10. What
is the meaning of the word “offend” ?(Matt.
5:29-30)?