Matt 5-7 – “He went up on the mountain”

The longest recorded sermon of Jesus is the sermon on the mount.  He began with the beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12).  Then He said to be salt and light (5:13-16) and avoid sinful thoughts about others (5:21-30).  Just as the Father loves all, “love your enemies and pray for” them (5:38-48).  Don’t give, pray, or fast to be seen by men (6:1-18).  Need to know how to pray?  Then check out what some call the model prayer (6:9-13).  Want treasure that lasts?  Then store it in heaven instead of on earth (6:19-24).  Worry have you down?  There’s no need to worry when you seek God first (6:25-34).  Judge others in a way you want to be judged yourself, without hypocrisy (7:1-5).  Remember “the golden rule”: “In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” (7:12).  Enter the narrow gate, know false prophets by their fruit, and build on the rock (7:13-27).  “When Jesus had finished these words, the crowds were amazed at His teaching; for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as their scribes.” (7:28-29).

Jesus delivered these words for more than simply amazing the crowds but also for guiding our lives.  If we don’t do exactly what He said, then we will miss the kingdom of God and hear the most dreaded words: “Depart from Me” (7:21-23).  Stay on the narrow way that leads to life (7:14).

Have a great day in His word!

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