Introduction
Jesus gives standards of behaviour to aim for.
Questions
1. What did Jesus say was as bad as murder?
v 22 ... everyone who is angry with his brother without a cause, will be in danger of the judgement.
2. What did Jesus say about swearing oaths?
v 34 and 37 ... but I tell you, don’t swear at all ... But let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No? ...
3. Why should we love our enemies?
v 44 and 45 … love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you, that you may be children of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust.
Summary Points
- v 1 to 12 Jesus lists the characteristics of those who are blessed and gives the consequences
- v 13 to 16 Jesus tells his followers that their light should be seen by others which should make them glorify God
- v 17 to 48 He lifts standards of behaviour to a new level, and tells us that the intention is as bad as the deed. He gives advice on:
- anger (v 21 and 22)
- problems with our brothers (v 23 to 26)
- sexual attraction (v 27 to 30)
- divorce (v 31 and 32)
- vows (v 33 to 37)
- attitudes to those who would harm us (v 38 to 42)
- loving our enemies (v 43 to 48)