SERMON REVISITED 2
What gems we find in Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount! Let’s consider the segment of Matthew chapter 5 following the Nine Happinesses, or Beatitudes. We find several powerful illustrations and lessons that affect our view of serving God and our thoughts and dealings toward others.
Sermon on the Mount Revisited 2
1. (a) What follows the Nine Happinesses in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 5? (b) Why might you be eager to carefully consider this part of the Sermon?
1. What gems of true wisdom are found in the Sermon on the Mount! Following the "Nine Happinesses" or "Beatitudes" that Jesus opened up with, he moves on with two powerful illustrations regarding his faithful disciples that teach some important qualities to be treasured among true Christians, then explains the purpose of his coming with vital lessons, then five times he addresses common beliefs and sayings among the people of God, and corrects them in line with God's peaceable way and purpose. Let's examine more carefully this segment of the Sermon, as found in Matthew chapter 5.
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2. (a) What is the salt of Jesus' illustration, and what is it to do among mankind? (b) How can genuine Christians carry out the implications of this illustration?
2. The first of the two illustrations compare his disciples to salt, in saying: “You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt loses its strength, how will its saltiness be restored? It is no longer usable for anything except to be thrown outside to be trampled on by men." Clearly, the salt being referred to is functioning as a preservative. Therefore, the true disciples of Christ would have a preserving influence on mankind--preserving the spirituality, or inner well-being, of humans earth-wide. The caution is how vital it is for Christians to safeguard their unity and peace in line with God's love and true wisdom. They do this by serving God faithfully and acquiring and maintaining, along with self-control, qualities such as humility, gentle mildness, and patient loyalty. These qualities are referred to several times together in the Scriptures in reference to incorruption and the maintaining of unity and peace in the congregation of God's people. (Eph 4:1-3). Doing this, they could remain steadfast in service to God right on into the rulership of God's Kingdom where the knowledge of Jehovah will cover the earth "as the waters cover the sea." (Isa 11:9).
___
3. (a) What is light compared to in the Scriptures, and how does it bring joy to God's people? (b) What is vital to maintain good conduct, and how does such conduct honor Jehovah?
3. The second illustration compares the disciples to light, in saying: “You are the light of the world. A city cannot be hid when located on a mountain. 15 People light a lamp and set it, not under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it shines on all those in the house. 16 Likewise, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your fine works and give glory to your Father who is in the heavens." In the Scriptures, light is compared to truth shining amidst the darkness of ignorance. The love of God inspires fine obedient conduct, allowing light of truth to shine to such obedient ones, all of this bringing joy and honoring Jehovah. As Psalm 97 puts it, "11 Light has flashed up for the righteous And rejoicing for those upright in heart." To maintain good conduct, which includes one's demeanor, speech and actions, it is vital to hold a good conscience in harmony with God's truth, as 1Peter 3:16 reminds us: "Maintain a good conscience, so that in whatever way you are spoken against, those who speak against you may be put to shame because of your good conduct as followers of Christ." This being put to shame is with a noble aim, as stated at 1Peter 2:12, "Maintain your conduct fine among the nations, so that when they accuse you of being wrongdoers, they may be eyewitnesses of your fine works and, as a result, glorify God in the day of his inspection."
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4. (a) What does Jesus imply about obedience to God's commands, yet what difference should be recognized? (b) What may inspire us to delight in God's righteousness?
4. Next, God's Son expounds upon his purpose in coming, in saying, beginning in verse 17 “Do not think I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I came, not to destroy, but to fulfill. 18 Truly I say to you that sooner would heaven and earth pass away than for one smallest letter or one stroke of a letter to pass away from the Law until all things take place. 19 Whoever, therefore, breaks one of these least commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in relation to the Kingdom of the heavens. But whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in relation to the Kingdom of the heavens. 20 For I say to you that if your righteousness does not surpass that of the scribes and the Pharisees, you will by no means enter into the Kingdom of the heavens." In saying this, God's Son reminds us that the law, now the law of love with commands upon Christians, includes both weightier commands and "least commandments." We are to observe ALL Christians commands and principles, not picking and choosing which ones we think should be kept, but even the "least" ones. While endeavoring to observe them all, we should learn to recognize the difference, still viewing the more serious commands just that way. Recognizing the Christian principles behind the commands, and gaining foresight to see the blessings of obedience and the bad consequences of disobedience, we should be inspired, in harmony with God's love, to delight in His righteousness, doing right in God's eyes. This is in harmony with God's loving appeal at Isaiah 48:18: "If only you would pay attention to my commandments! Then your peace would become just like a river And your righteousness like the waves of the sea."
___
5. (a) How does the Sermon get to the root of the problem in this instance? (b) In what ways can one prevent a situation from getting out of hand in such matters?
5. Next, Christ begins a series of addressing common sayings among the people of the day. He corrects each saying, getting to the spirit behind the law. What spirit, or mental inclination, can be corrected before it leads to terrible actions and consequences? We begin with verse 21 “You heard that it was said to those of ancient times: ‘You must not murder, but whoever commits a murder will be accountable to the court of justice.’ 22 However, I say to you that everyone who continues wrathful with his brother will be accountable to the court of justice; and whoever addresses his brother with an unspeakable word of contempt will be accountable to the Supreme Court; whereas whoever says, ‘You despicable fool!’ will be liable to the fiery Ge·henʹna." We see three levels of punishment based upon levels of heart attitude of one toward another. How fine if it never gets to the first level, one who "continues wrathful with his brother," being accountable to the court of justice. God's word counsels, "let the sun not set while you are still angry" (Eph 4:26). Let us be quick to resolve conflicts with our brothers or others if possible, to treasure genuine peace and unity, especially among the congregation of God's people. Thus hatred may never have a chance to fester within the heart of one, as we can even pray for one who may have hurt us in some way, just as Jehovah required Job to pray for his associates, so-called comforters who spoke falsely to him. (Job 42:8).
___
6. (a) What view regarding true peace does Jesus recommend in these verses?
6. Jesus uses the experience of offering sacrifices at the temple in Jerusalem to show how to avert the punishments mentioned in the previous verses: “23 If, then, you are bringing your gift to the altar and there you remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go away. First make your peace with your brother, and then come back and offer your gift." Thus, God's Son shows that the value of our sacrifices to Jehovah are even in question if we're not at peace with our brothers--again highlighting the seriousness, the highest priority, of maintaining true peace and oneness, or unity, among God's people, as we all look to Jehovah Himself for our direction and guidance, serving Him whole-hearted and whole-souled together "shoulder to shoulder" (Zeph 3:9; Eph 4:3,13; Mt 22:37-39).
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7. (a) What does Jesus recommend regarding the handling of legal conflicts that may arise? (b) Why is such a recommendation worthy of attention?
7. Along the same lines, the Sermon continues with regards to settling legal conflicts between persons: "25 Be quick to settle matters with your legal opponent, while you are with him on the way there, so that somehow the opponent may not turn you over to the judge, and the judge to the court attendant, and you get thrown into prison. 26 I say to you for a fact, you will certainly not come out of there until you have paid over your last small coin." How often legal conflicts result in someone's great financial or other losses. How much better to find some suitable agreement prior to taking the matter to the courts, thus averting potential disaster in various ways, including the usually large legal costs or fees that are associated with such proceedings.
___
8. (a) How does the Sermon address the root of the problem of adultery? (b) What do the eye and the hand have reference to, and how may the counsel offered provide protective benefit to all with regards to such serious sin?
8. The Sermon next addresses another common saying or law among the people, and again addresses the spirit behind the law: "27 You heard that it was said: ‘You must not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that everyone who keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If, now, your right eye is making you stumble, tear it out and throw it away from you. For it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to be pitched into Ge·henʹna. 30 Also, if your right hand is making you stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you. For it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to land in Ge·henʹna." Similar to the murder mentioned previously, adultery or sexual immorality is another serious sin before God. But Jesus gets to the root of the matter, in the looking passionately toward another, as already sinning in one's heart--by thus avoiding this, one may keep away from the immoral deed. Then he makes mention of one's "right eye" and one's "right hand." What do these have reference to? Regarding the eye, the Scriptures make mention of the "desire of the eyes", and reasonably it involves what one looks at or gives attention to, and how, or with what motive, they are doing so, which can increase one's desire for it. The same may be true of the hand, referring to actions one may take. Such actions may serve to increase one's desire for something, again, depending on the motive. One may need to take extreme measures on occasion, to root out such motives of the heart, beginning with halting any ideas or actions that may be contributing to the problem. Doing so would prevent one from ending up in Gehenna, a reference to eternal destruction.
___
9. (a) How is God's view of divorce different from what has been commonplace, and so what disloyalty should typically be avoided? (b) What solution may be better than an invalid "divorce" in God's eyes?
9. The Sermon continues with another common saying among the people: “31 Moreover, it was said: ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ 32 However, I say to you that everyone divorcing his wife, except on account of sexual immorality, makes her a subject for adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery." Clearly, excuses for "divorce" were many and varied in that day, as they have been in more recent times. However, here we see God's own view of the matter, that divorce is not God's intention for marriage, and only the unfaithfulness of a mate by immorality, or fornication, allows for that sad outcome. How unkind and disloyal, then, to "divorce" someone on any other grounds, as in God's eyes it typically is not valid, and makes that one a subject for adultery. How much better to treasure one's mate, remembering the things you've loved about him or her in the past, and, seeking God's help and blessing, working to overcome challenges to draw closer in true love as a couple! Striving to help each other prove loyal to Jehovah, the third cord in the marital union, can only draw you closer together (Eccl 4:12).
___
10. (a) What does this part of the Sermon show about our words and agreements? (b) How can we thus maintain God's favor and blessing?
10. “33 Again you heard that it was said to those of ancient times: ‘You must not swear without performing, but you must pay your vows to Jehovah.’ 34 However, I say to you: Do not swear at all, neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 nor by earth, for it is the footstool of his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 Do not swear by your head, since you cannot turn one hair white or black. 37 Just let your word ‘Yes’ mean yes, your ‘No,’ no, for what goes beyond these is from the wicked one." This shows our words and agreements are to be taken seriously--we should not take lightly what we agree to. We should love truth: "Buy truth itself, and do not sell it." References to the earth as God's "footstool" in the Scriptures are associated with reminders of God's greatness and His holiness. As Psalm 99:5 says, "Exalt Jehovah our God and bow down at his footstool; He is holy" (also Isa 66:1). As His holy people, our speech should be clean and truthful, honest. May we avoid being, as many have been in the past, "false to agreements," and "not go back on [our solemn] promise (or, oath), even when it is bad for [us]." We should be careful making any solemn promise. Of course, Jehovah is understanding and merciful, but "practicing such things," we can maintain God's favor and blessing, and remain a "guest in His tent," "speaking the truth" in our heart. (Psalm 15:1-5; Rom 1:28-32).
___
11. (a) What lessons are being taught in these verses? (b) Why do you value loving Christian qualities such as kindness, patience, and empathy?
11. Another common law and saying of the people is next: "38 You heard that it was said: ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ 39 However, I say to you: Do not resist the one who is wicked, but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other also to him. 40 And if a person wants to take you to court and get possession of your inner garment, let him also have your outer garment; 41 and if someone in authority compels you into service for a mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one asking you, and do not turn away from one who wants to borrow from you." Rather than seeking revenge on others for any pain they may cause us, we are taught to love, patiently and kindly refusing to be engaged in a battle of returning evil for evil (1Cor 13:4). By shocking one opposing us or in authority over us, by going even further in giving what he requests, it may silence further hurtful acts. Also, be willing to lend to those in need, treasuring empathy for others, as opposed to that vengeful spirit. Genuine spiritual qualities, like empathy, are to be highly valued among God's servants, and appreciated as helping to maintain righteousness and goodness in harmony with God's ways.
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12. (a) How does this lesson go further than the last one? (b) What may our prayers for those persecuting us accomplish for us and perhaps them? (c) What is one lesson you find helpful from those considered here in Matthew chapter 5?
12. Finishing Matthew chapter 5, the Sermon continues: “43 You heard that it was said: ‘You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 However, I say to you: Continue to love your enemies and to pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may prove yourselves sons of your Father who is in the heavens, since he makes his sun rise on both the wicked and the good and makes it rain on both the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 For if you love those loving you, what reward do you have? Are not also the tax collectors doing the same thing? 47 And if you greet your brothers only, what extraordinary thing are you doing? Are not also the people of the nations doing the same thing? 48 You must accordingly be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." In going a little further than the last lesson, along with empathy and love, we are to continue loving even our "enemies" and pray for those persecuting us. In this way we are imitating Jehovah, who gives both sun and rain to even unrighteous ones. Do not such prayers for others promote feelings of peace and kindness toward them, dismissing hurtful feelings, as we're mindful of God's tremendous love for all, even unrighteous ones in hoping for their repentance, a sincere turning around from badness to love what is good and right in His eyes? (2Pet 3:9; 2Tim 2:3,22,25,26)
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13. How can we summarize the further lessons of Matthew chapter 5, following the nine happinesses?
13. So following the "Nine Happinesses" or "Beatitudes" Matthew chapter 5 highlights several vital Christian principles in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Comparing the disciples to salt and light brings to mind the preserving influence of genuine Christians on the hearts of mankind, and the value of the truth of God leading to true joy for upright ones. Jesus next reveals he came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, reminding us of the importance of keeping all of God's commands, including the "least" ones. Then we see the need to have a peaceable spirit, dismissing negative thoughts which often lead to hurtful speech and actions. We must not continue angry, but resolve differences quickly with another to preserve the loving spirit among congregations, this being more important than even our sacrifices to God. Also, the marriage bond should be greatly honored, avoiding trivial reasons for separation or divorce, which would not be valid in God's eyes. Next Jesus underscored the importance of taking our agreements seriously, keeping our word. Then, avoiding a vengeful spirit, we should bear up under pressure and continue showing Christlike love toward all men, even enemies, hoping for their eventual repentance before God. What fine gems of truth Jesus has shared in his Sermon on the Mount. May we continue benefitting from such beautiful instruction by applying it to our own situation in life.
1. What gems of true wisdom are found in the Sermon on the Mount! Following the "Nine Happinesses" or "Beatitudes" that Jesus opened up with, he moves on with two powerful illustrations regarding his faithful disciples that teach some important qualities to be treasured among true Christians, then explains the purpose of his coming with vital lessons, then five times he addresses common beliefs and sayings among the people of God, and corrects them in line with God's peaceable way and purpose. Let's examine more carefully this segment of the Sermon, as found in Matthew chapter 5.
___
2. (a) What is the salt of Jesus' illustration, and what is it to do among mankind? (b) How can genuine Christians carry out the implications of this illustration?
2. The first of the two illustrations compare his disciples to salt, in saying: “You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt loses its strength, how will its saltiness be restored? It is no longer usable for anything except to be thrown outside to be trampled on by men." Clearly, the salt being referred to is functioning as a preservative. Therefore, the true disciples of Christ would have a preserving influence on mankind--preserving the spirituality, or inner well-being, of humans earth-wide. The caution is how vital it is for Christians to safeguard their unity and peace in line with God's love and true wisdom. They do this by serving God faithfully and acquiring and maintaining, along with self-control, qualities such as humility, gentle mildness, and patient loyalty. These qualities are referred to several times together in the Scriptures in reference to incorruption and the maintaining of unity and peace in the congregation of God's people. (Eph 4:1-3). Doing this, they could remain steadfast in service to God right on into the rulership of God's Kingdom where the knowledge of Jehovah will cover the earth "as the waters cover the sea." (Isa 11:9).
___
3. (a) What is light compared to in the Scriptures, and how does it bring joy to God's people? (b) What is vital to maintain good conduct, and how does such conduct honor Jehovah?
3. The second illustration compares the disciples to light, in saying: “You are the light of the world. A city cannot be hid when located on a mountain. 15 People light a lamp and set it, not under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it shines on all those in the house. 16 Likewise, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your fine works and give glory to your Father who is in the heavens." In the Scriptures, light is compared to truth shining amidst the darkness of ignorance. The love of God inspires fine obedient conduct, allowing light of truth to shine to such obedient ones, all of this bringing joy and honoring Jehovah. As Psalm 97 puts it, "11 Light has flashed up for the righteous And rejoicing for those upright in heart." To maintain good conduct, which includes one's demeanor, speech and actions, it is vital to hold a good conscience in harmony with God's truth, as 1Peter 3:16 reminds us: "Maintain a good conscience, so that in whatever way you are spoken against, those who speak against you may be put to shame because of your good conduct as followers of Christ." This being put to shame is with a noble aim, as stated at 1Peter 2:12, "Maintain your conduct fine among the nations, so that when they accuse you of being wrongdoers, they may be eyewitnesses of your fine works and, as a result, glorify God in the day of his inspection."
___
4. (a) What does Jesus imply about obedience to God's commands, yet what difference should be recognized? (b) What may inspire us to delight in God's righteousness?
4. Next, God's Son expounds upon his purpose in coming, in saying, beginning in verse 17 “Do not think I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I came, not to destroy, but to fulfill. 18 Truly I say to you that sooner would heaven and earth pass away than for one smallest letter or one stroke of a letter to pass away from the Law until all things take place. 19 Whoever, therefore, breaks one of these least commandments and teaches others to do so will be called least in relation to the Kingdom of the heavens. But whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in relation to the Kingdom of the heavens. 20 For I say to you that if your righteousness does not surpass that of the scribes and the Pharisees, you will by no means enter into the Kingdom of the heavens." In saying this, God's Son reminds us that the law, now the law of love with commands upon Christians, includes both weightier commands and "least commandments." We are to observe ALL Christians commands and principles, not picking and choosing which ones we think should be kept, but even the "least" ones. While endeavoring to observe them all, we should learn to recognize the difference, still viewing the more serious commands just that way. Recognizing the Christian principles behind the commands, and gaining foresight to see the blessings of obedience and the bad consequences of disobedience, we should be inspired, in harmony with God's love, to delight in His righteousness, doing right in God's eyes. This is in harmony with God's loving appeal at Isaiah 48:18: "If only you would pay attention to my commandments! Then your peace would become just like a river And your righteousness like the waves of the sea."
___
5. (a) How does the Sermon get to the root of the problem in this instance? (b) In what ways can one prevent a situation from getting out of hand in such matters?
5. Next, Christ begins a series of addressing common sayings among the people of the day. He corrects each saying, getting to the spirit behind the law. What spirit, or mental inclination, can be corrected before it leads to terrible actions and consequences? We begin with verse 21 “You heard that it was said to those of ancient times: ‘You must not murder, but whoever commits a murder will be accountable to the court of justice.’ 22 However, I say to you that everyone who continues wrathful with his brother will be accountable to the court of justice; and whoever addresses his brother with an unspeakable word of contempt will be accountable to the Supreme Court; whereas whoever says, ‘You despicable fool!’ will be liable to the fiery Ge·henʹna." We see three levels of punishment based upon levels of heart attitude of one toward another. How fine if it never gets to the first level, one who "continues wrathful with his brother," being accountable to the court of justice. God's word counsels, "let the sun not set while you are still angry" (Eph 4:26). Let us be quick to resolve conflicts with our brothers or others if possible, to treasure genuine peace and unity, especially among the congregation of God's people. Thus hatred may never have a chance to fester within the heart of one, as we can even pray for one who may have hurt us in some way, just as Jehovah required Job to pray for his associates, so-called comforters who spoke falsely to him. (Job 42:8).
___
6. (a) What view regarding true peace does Jesus recommend in these verses?
6. Jesus uses the experience of offering sacrifices at the temple in Jerusalem to show how to avert the punishments mentioned in the previous verses: “23 If, then, you are bringing your gift to the altar and there you remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there in front of the altar, and go away. First make your peace with your brother, and then come back and offer your gift." Thus, God's Son shows that the value of our sacrifices to Jehovah are even in question if we're not at peace with our brothers--again highlighting the seriousness, the highest priority, of maintaining true peace and oneness, or unity, among God's people, as we all look to Jehovah Himself for our direction and guidance, serving Him whole-hearted and whole-souled together "shoulder to shoulder" (Zeph 3:9; Eph 4:3,13; Mt 22:37-39).
___
7. (a) What does Jesus recommend regarding the handling of legal conflicts that may arise? (b) Why is such a recommendation worthy of attention?
7. Along the same lines, the Sermon continues with regards to settling legal conflicts between persons: "25 Be quick to settle matters with your legal opponent, while you are with him on the way there, so that somehow the opponent may not turn you over to the judge, and the judge to the court attendant, and you get thrown into prison. 26 I say to you for a fact, you will certainly not come out of there until you have paid over your last small coin." How often legal conflicts result in someone's great financial or other losses. How much better to find some suitable agreement prior to taking the matter to the courts, thus averting potential disaster in various ways, including the usually large legal costs or fees that are associated with such proceedings.
___
8. (a) How does the Sermon address the root of the problem of adultery? (b) What do the eye and the hand have reference to, and how may the counsel offered provide protective benefit to all with regards to such serious sin?
8. The Sermon next addresses another common saying or law among the people, and again addresses the spirit behind the law: "27 You heard that it was said: ‘You must not commit adultery.’ 28 But I say to you that everyone who keeps on looking at a woman so as to have a passion for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If, now, your right eye is making you stumble, tear it out and throw it away from you. For it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to be pitched into Ge·henʹna. 30 Also, if your right hand is making you stumble, cut it off and throw it away from you. For it is better for you to lose one of your members than for your whole body to land in Ge·henʹna." Similar to the murder mentioned previously, adultery or sexual immorality is another serious sin before God. But Jesus gets to the root of the matter, in the looking passionately toward another, as already sinning in one's heart--by thus avoiding this, one may keep away from the immoral deed. Then he makes mention of one's "right eye" and one's "right hand." What do these have reference to? Regarding the eye, the Scriptures make mention of the "desire of the eyes", and reasonably it involves what one looks at or gives attention to, and how, or with what motive, they are doing so, which can increase one's desire for it. The same may be true of the hand, referring to actions one may take. Such actions may serve to increase one's desire for something, again, depending on the motive. One may need to take extreme measures on occasion, to root out such motives of the heart, beginning with halting any ideas or actions that may be contributing to the problem. Doing so would prevent one from ending up in Gehenna, a reference to eternal destruction.
___
9. (a) How is God's view of divorce different from what has been commonplace, and so what disloyalty should typically be avoided? (b) What solution may be better than an invalid "divorce" in God's eyes?
9. The Sermon continues with another common saying among the people: “31 Moreover, it was said: ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ 32 However, I say to you that everyone divorcing his wife, except on account of sexual immorality, makes her a subject for adultery, and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery." Clearly, excuses for "divorce" were many and varied in that day, as they have been in more recent times. However, here we see God's own view of the matter, that divorce is not God's intention for marriage, and only the unfaithfulness of a mate by immorality, or fornication, allows for that sad outcome. How unkind and disloyal, then, to "divorce" someone on any other grounds, as in God's eyes it typically is not valid, and makes that one a subject for adultery. How much better to treasure one's mate, remembering the things you've loved about him or her in the past, and, seeking God's help and blessing, working to overcome challenges to draw closer in true love as a couple! Striving to help each other prove loyal to Jehovah, the third cord in the marital union, can only draw you closer together (Eccl 4:12).
___
10. (a) What does this part of the Sermon show about our words and agreements? (b) How can we thus maintain God's favor and blessing?
10. “33 Again you heard that it was said to those of ancient times: ‘You must not swear without performing, but you must pay your vows to Jehovah.’ 34 However, I say to you: Do not swear at all, neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 nor by earth, for it is the footstool of his feet; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 Do not swear by your head, since you cannot turn one hair white or black. 37 Just let your word ‘Yes’ mean yes, your ‘No,’ no, for what goes beyond these is from the wicked one." This shows our words and agreements are to be taken seriously--we should not take lightly what we agree to. We should love truth: "Buy truth itself, and do not sell it." References to the earth as God's "footstool" in the Scriptures are associated with reminders of God's greatness and His holiness. As Psalm 99:5 says, "Exalt Jehovah our God and bow down at his footstool; He is holy" (also Isa 66:1). As His holy people, our speech should be clean and truthful, honest. May we avoid being, as many have been in the past, "false to agreements," and "not go back on [our solemn] promise (or, oath), even when it is bad for [us]." We should be careful making any solemn promise. Of course, Jehovah is understanding and merciful, but "practicing such things," we can maintain God's favor and blessing, and remain a "guest in His tent," "speaking the truth" in our heart. (Psalm 15:1-5; Rom 1:28-32).
___
11. (a) What lessons are being taught in these verses? (b) Why do you value loving Christian qualities such as kindness, patience, and empathy?
11. Another common law and saying of the people is next: "38 You heard that it was said: ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ 39 However, I say to you: Do not resist the one who is wicked, but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other also to him. 40 And if a person wants to take you to court and get possession of your inner garment, let him also have your outer garment; 41 and if someone in authority compels you into service for a mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one asking you, and do not turn away from one who wants to borrow from you." Rather than seeking revenge on others for any pain they may cause us, we are taught to love, patiently and kindly refusing to be engaged in a battle of returning evil for evil (1Cor 13:4). By shocking one opposing us or in authority over us, by going even further in giving what he requests, it may silence further hurtful acts. Also, be willing to lend to those in need, treasuring empathy for others, as opposed to that vengeful spirit. Genuine spiritual qualities, like empathy, are to be highly valued among God's servants, and appreciated as helping to maintain righteousness and goodness in harmony with God's ways.
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12. (a) How does this lesson go further than the last one? (b) What may our prayers for those persecuting us accomplish for us and perhaps them? (c) What is one lesson you find helpful from those considered here in Matthew chapter 5?
12. Finishing Matthew chapter 5, the Sermon continues: “43 You heard that it was said: ‘You must love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 However, I say to you: Continue to love your enemies and to pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may prove yourselves sons of your Father who is in the heavens, since he makes his sun rise on both the wicked and the good and makes it rain on both the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 For if you love those loving you, what reward do you have? Are not also the tax collectors doing the same thing? 47 And if you greet your brothers only, what extraordinary thing are you doing? Are not also the people of the nations doing the same thing? 48 You must accordingly be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." In going a little further than the last lesson, along with empathy and love, we are to continue loving even our "enemies" and pray for those persecuting us. In this way we are imitating Jehovah, who gives both sun and rain to even unrighteous ones. Do not such prayers for others promote feelings of peace and kindness toward them, dismissing hurtful feelings, as we're mindful of God's tremendous love for all, even unrighteous ones in hoping for their repentance, a sincere turning around from badness to love what is good and right in His eyes? (2Pet 3:9; 2Tim 2:3,22,25,26)
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13. How can we summarize the further lessons of Matthew chapter 5, following the nine happinesses?
13. So following the "Nine Happinesses" or "Beatitudes" Matthew chapter 5 highlights several vital Christian principles in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Comparing the disciples to salt and light brings to mind the preserving influence of genuine Christians on the hearts of mankind, and the value of the truth of God leading to true joy for upright ones. Jesus next reveals he came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, reminding us of the importance of keeping all of God's commands, including the "least" ones. Then we see the need to have a peaceable spirit, dismissing negative thoughts which often lead to hurtful speech and actions. We must not continue angry, but resolve differences quickly with another to preserve the loving spirit among congregations, this being more important than even our sacrifices to God. Also, the marriage bond should be greatly honored, avoiding trivial reasons for separation or divorce, which would not be valid in God's eyes. Next Jesus underscored the importance of taking our agreements seriously, keeping our word. Then, avoiding a vengeful spirit, we should bear up under pressure and continue showing Christlike love toward all men, even enemies, hoping for their eventual repentance before God. What fine gems of truth Jesus has shared in his Sermon on the Mount. May we continue benefitting from such beautiful instruction by applying it to our own situation in life.