◄ Matthew 5 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Sermon on the Mount 1When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain and sat down. His disciples came to Him, 2and He began to teach them, saying: The Beatitudes (Psalm 1:1–6; Luke 6:20–23) 3“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.a 6Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. 10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. 12Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you. Salt and Light (Mark 9:49–50; Luke 14:34–35; Philippians 2:12–18) 13You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its savor, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14You are the light of the world. A city on a hillb cannot be hidden. 15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. The Fulfillment of the Law 17Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them. 18For I tell you truly, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. 19So then, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do likewise will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever practices and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Anger and Reconciliation (Luke 12:57–59) 21You have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not murder’c and ‘Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brotherd will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’e will be subject to the Sanhedrin.f But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell.g 23So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. 25Reconcile quickly with your adversary, while you are still on the way to court. Otherwise, he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.h Adultery (Leviticus 18:1–30) 27You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’i 28But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.j 30And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to depart into hell. Divorce (Deuteronomy 24:1–5; Luke 16:18) 31It has also been said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’k 32But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, brings adultery upon her.l And he who marries a divorced woman commits adultery. Oaths and Vows (Numbers 30:1–16) 33Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.’m 34But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36Nor should you swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. 37Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ Anything more comes from the evil one.n Love Your Enemies (Leviticus 24:17–23; Luke 6:27–36) 38You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’o 39But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also; 40if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well; 41and if someone forces you to go one mile,p go with him two miles.q 42Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. 43You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor’r and ‘Hate your enemy.’ 44But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,s 45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Do not even tax collectors do the same? 47And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even Gentiles do the same? 48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Footnotes: 5 a Or Blessed are those who exercise strength under control, for they will inherit the land; see Psalm 37:11. 14 b Literally A city lying on a hill 21 c Exodus 20:13; Deuteronomy 5:17 22 d BYZ and TR include without cause. 22 e Raca is an Aramaic expression of contempt. 22 f Or the Council 22 g Or the hell of fire; Greek the Gehenna of fire 26 h Greek kodrantēn; that is, a Roman copper coin worth about 1/64 of a denarius 27 i Exodus 20:14; Deuteronomy 5:18 29 j Greek Gehenna; also in verse 30 31 k Deuteronomy 24:1 32 l Or causes her to commit adultery 33 m Numbers 30:2 37 n Or from evil 38 o Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21 41 p Greek one milion; that is, a Roman mile, approximately 4,855 feet or 1,480 meters 41 q Literally go with him two. 43 r Leviticus 19:18 44 s BYZ and TR love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully accuse you and persecute you; see Luke 6:27–28. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Matthew 5 Summary The Sermon on the Mount Verses 1–2 – The Setting Jesus climbs a Galilean hillside, sits down like a rabbi, and begins teaching His disciples while the crowds listen in. Verses 3–12 – The Beatitudes He pronounces eight blessings on those who live humbly before God, promising present comfort and future reward even amid persecution. Verses 13–16 – Salt and Light Followers are called to flavor the world and shine brightly so people glorify the Father. Verses 17–20 – Fulfillment of the Law Jesus affirms every stroke of Scripture, insisting on deeper righteousness than that of the religious leaders. Verses 21–26 – Anger and Reconciliation Murder begins in the heart; urgent peace-making is required before worship or court. Verses 27–30 – Lust and Purity Adultery starts with the eyes; radical steps guard the heart. Verses 31–32 – Divorce God’s design is lifelong marriage; divorce except for sexual immorality leads to further sin. Verses 33–37 – Oaths and Integrity Swearing complicated vows is unnecessary; truthful speech should be enough—“Yes” or “No.” Verses 38–42 – Retaliation and Generosity Instead of exacting revenge, disciples absorb insults and give freely. Verses 43–48 – Love for Enemies God’s children imitate His perfect love by praying for persecutors and welcoming all people. Matthew 5 is the commencement of the Sermon on the Mount, one of the most notable discourses in the New Testament. In this chapter, Jesus Christ lays out the principles of kingdom living, redefining righteousness beyond religious law to include purity of heart, peacemaking, and love for others. Historical Context Matthew places this teaching early in Jesus’ public ministry, around A.D. 28–30. Galilean Jews lived under Roman rule yet clung to Mosaic Law. Religious life was shaped by synagogue teaching, scribal traditions, and Pharisaic rigor. Into this setting, Jesus launches a message that honors Scripture while piercing surface-level obedience. Geography and Setting The traditional site—Kurum Hattin (“Horns of Hattin”)—overlooks the Sea of Galilee. Natural acoustics allow a seated teacher to project his voice to hundreds. Wildflowers, salt deposits, and city lights nearby furnished vivid illustrations of lilies (6:28), salt (5:13), and a hilltop town (5:14). Structure of the Sermon on the Mount 1. Character (5:3–16) 2. Relationship to Scripture (5:17–20) 3. Six “You have heard … but I say” examples (5:21–48) 4. Devotional practices (6:1–18) 5. Kingdom priorities (6:19–34) 6. Relating to others (7:1–12) 7. Final warnings and invitation (7:13–29) Matthew 5 supplies the cornerstone: transformed hearts produce kingdom conduct. The Beatitudes in Detail • “Blessed are the poor in spirit” (v 3) – humble dependence recognizes spiritual need (Isaiah 66:2). • “Those who mourn” (v 4) – grief over sin finds comfort (Psalm 51:17). • “The meek” (v 5) – gentle strength inherits “the earth,” echoing Psalm 37:11. • “Hunger and thirst for righteousness” (v 6) – a craving only God satisfies (Isaiah 55:1–2). • “The merciful” (v 7) – receive mercy, mirroring Hosea 6:6. • “Pure in heart” (v 8) – intimacy with God anticipated in Psalm 24:3-4. • “Peacemakers” (v 9) – reflect God’s reconciling nature (Colossians 1:20). • “Persecuted for righteousness” (vv 10–12) – share prophets’ reward (Hebrews 11:35-38). Salt and Light Imagery Roman roads used Galilean salt to harden surfaces; once leached, it was useless. Lamps in first-century homes were small clay bowls of olive oil, placed high for maximum reach. Jesus’ call: preserve society’s moral fiber and illuminate truth. Jesus and the Law Matthew 5:17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them.” Fulfill means bring to full meaning and lived perfection (Isaiah 42:21). Every “iota” (Hebrew yod) matters, affirming Genesis through Malachi. Yet the Law pointed to an inner righteousness only Christ provides (Jeremiah 31:33). Heart-Level Obedience: From Anger to Love • “Everyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment” (v 22). Insults (“Raca”) reflected contempt. • Temple worship demanded reconciliation first (vv 23-24): God values unity over ritual (Micah 6:6-8). • Quick settlements (vv 25-26) avoid harsher outcomes—practical advice and a metaphor for settling accounts with God before final judgment. Marriage and Covenant Faithfulness Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 24:1 but tightens the loophole culture had widened. Except for porneia (sexual immorality), divorce breaks covenant and leads to adultery, reaffirming Genesis 2:24. Compared with Mark 10:11-12 and 1 Corinthians 7:15-16, Scripture consistently elevates marital permanence. Integrity of Speech First-century Jews swore by heaven, earth, Jerusalem, even their own heads to dodge God’s name. Jesus rejects clever loopholes: Matthew 5:37 “Let your ‘Yes’ be yes, and your ‘No,’ no.” Echoes Leviticus 19:12 and upholds Proverbs 12:22—truthful lips delight the Lord. Non-Retaliation and Kingdom Generosity “Eye for eye” restrained private vengeance (Exodus 21:24). Jesus calls disciples beyond minimum justice. • A slap (“right cheek”) was an insult; turning the other cheek confronts pride without violence. • Giving cloak as well as tunic (v 40) relinquishes personal rights, mirroring Joseph’s forgiveness (Genesis 45). • Roman soldiers could compel a mile (v 41); going two miles transforms forced service into willing love. • Open-handed giving (v 42) echoes Deuteronomy 15:7-8. Perfect Love: Loving Enemies Matthew 5:44 “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” God “causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good” (v 45), modeling impartial kindness. The standard, “Be perfect” (v 48), means mature, wholehearted love reflecting God’s character (Leviticus 19:18). Connections to the Old Testament • Psalms and Isaiah saturate the Beatitudes. • The six contrasts (vv 21-48) rest on Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy. • Jesus embodies the prophetic call for internal transformation (Ezekiel 36:26-27). Archaeological Insights • First-century Jewish divorce papyri from Masada show how casually certificates were issued, underscoring Jesus’ correction. • Stone oil lamps found near Capernaum match the lamps Jesus references in 5:15. • Salt blocks harvested from the Dead Sea region grow crusty and tasteless when exposed to moisture, illustrating 5:13. Application for Today • Humble character invites kingdom blessings even in hostile settings. • Christians preserve moral decay when they live distinctly in business, school, and politics. • Reconciliation matters more than ritual—forgive quickly, text the offended friend, clear the air. • Guard eyes and thoughts; employ accountability software or habits that “pluck out” stumbling sources. • Marriages thrive when seen as lifelong covenants, not contracts of convenience. • Speak plainly; let digital posts and daily conversations be consistently truthful. • Generosity absorbs personal cost; budget to give, and surprise others with second-mile kindness. • Pray for difficult people by name, asking God to bless them; such prayer reshapes the heart. Living Matthew 5 turns believers into living billboards of the Father’s goodness and marks them as citizens of His kingdom. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. Teaching Points The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) Jesus begins with blessings for those who are poor in spirit, mourn, are meek, and hunger for righteousness. These qualities reflect a heart aligned with God's will. Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16) Believers are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world, influencing society with godly character and good deeds. Fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17-20) Jesus emphasizes that He came not to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it, calling His followers to a righteousness that surpasses that of the Pharisees. Radical Righteousness (Matthew 5:21-48) Jesus redefines the understanding of the Law, addressing issues like anger, lust, divorce, oaths, retaliation, and love for enemies, urging a heart transformation rather than mere external compliance. Practical Applications Embrace Humility Cultivate a spirit of humility and dependence on God, recognizing our need for His grace and guidance. Be a Positive Influence Actively seek to be a positive influence in your community, reflecting Christ's love and truth in your actions and words. Pursue Heart Transformation Focus on internal transformation rather than external appearances, allowing the Holy Spirit to shape your character. Practice Radical Love Extend love and forgiveness even to those who oppose or persecute you, following Jesus' example of unconditional love. People 1. Jesus The central figure delivering the Sermon on the Mount. He is the teacher and authority on the law and righteousness. In the Greek text, His name is Ἰησοῦς (Iēsous). 2. The Disciples The primary audience of Jesus' teachings in this chapter. They are His followers, learning from His wisdom and guidance. The Greek term used is μαθηταί (mathētai). 3. The Poor in Spirit Those who recognize their spiritual need and dependence on God. They are promised the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:3). 4. Those Who Mourn Individuals who experience sorrow, possibly over sin or suffering, and are promised comfort (Matthew 5:4). 5. The Meek Those who are gentle and humble, promised to inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5). The Greek word πραεῖς (praeis) conveys gentleness and humility. 6. Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness People with a deep desire for justice and moral integrity, promised satisfaction (Matthew 5:6). 7. The Merciful Individuals who show compassion and forgiveness, promised to receive mercy (Matthew 5:7). 8. The Pure in Heart Those with sincere and undivided devotion to God, promised to see God (Matthew 5:8). 9. The Peacemakers People who actively seek reconciliation and peace, called children of God (Matthew 5:9). 10. Those Persecuted for Righteousness' Sake Individuals who suffer for doing what is right, promised the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:10). 11. You (the audience) Refers to the disciples and, by extension, all believers who are addressed directly by Jesus in verses like Matthew 5:11-12, where He speaks of persecution for His sake. 12. The Prophets Mentioned as those who were persecuted before, serving as examples of enduring faithfulness (Matthew 5:12). Places 1. The Mountain The setting for the Sermon on the Mount is a mountain, as indicated in Matthew 5:1: "When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain and sat down. His disciples came to Him." The Greek word used here is "ὄρος" (oros), which simply means a mountain or hill. This location is significant as it echoes the giving of the Law on Mount Sinai, drawing a parallel between Moses and Jesus as lawgivers. 2. Galilee While not mentioned directly in Matthew 5, the broader context of the Sermon on the Mount is set in the region of Galilee. Matthew 4:23-25 describes Jesus teaching and healing throughout Galilee, and the crowds following Him from there. Galilee is a region in northern Israel, significant for being the primary area of Jesus' early ministry. Events 1. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) Jesus begins His Sermon on the Mount by pronouncing blessings on various groups of people, such as the poor in spirit, those who mourn, and the meek. Each beatitude highlights a spiritual quality and its corresponding reward. The Greek word "μακάριοι" (makarioi) is used for "blessed," indicating a state of spiritual well-being and prosperity. 2. Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16) Jesus uses the metaphors of salt and light to describe the role of His followers in the world. Believers are to preserve and illuminate, influencing the world positively. The Greek word "ἅλας" (halas) for "salt" emphasizes its preserving and flavoring qualities, while "φῶς" (phos) for "light" underscores visibility and guidance. 3. Fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17-20) Jesus declares that He has come not to abolish the Law or the Prophets but to fulfill them. He emphasizes the importance of righteousness that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees. The Greek term "πληρόω" (plēroō) for "fulfill" suggests bringing to completion or full expression. 4. Teaching on Anger (Matthew 5:21-26) Jesus expands on the commandment against murder, teaching that anger and insults also subject one to judgment. He stresses reconciliation with others before offering gifts at the altar. The Greek word "ὀργίζω" (orgizō) for "anger" highlights the internal emotion that can lead to sin. 5. Teaching on Adultery (Matthew 5:27-30) Jesus intensifies the commandment against adultery by addressing lustful thoughts, equating them with the act itself. He uses hyperbolic language to emphasize the seriousness of sin and the need for radical action to avoid it. 6. Teaching on Divorce (Matthew 5:31-32) Jesus addresses the issue of divorce, stating that it should only occur in the case of sexual immorality. He underscores the sanctity of marriage and the consequences of unjust divorce. 7. Teaching on Oaths (Matthew 5:33-37) Jesus instructs His followers to avoid swearing oaths altogether, advocating for simple and honest communication. The emphasis is on integrity and truthfulness in speech. 8. Teaching on Retaliation (Matthew 5:38-42) Jesus challenges the principle of "an eye for an eye" by teaching non-retaliation and generosity. He encourages turning the other cheek and going the extra mile, promoting a spirit of forgiveness and selflessness. 9. Love for Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48) Jesus commands love for enemies and prayer for persecutors, highlighting the call to be perfect as the heavenly Father is perfect. The Greek word "ἀγαπάω" (agapaō) for "love" denotes a selfless, unconditional love that seeks the good of others. Lessons from Matthew 5 1. The Beatitudes: A Blueprint for Blessing Matthew 5 begins with the Beatitudes, a series of blessings that turn worldly values upside down. Jesus says, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). This teaches us that true happiness and fulfillment come from recognizing our spiritual need and relying on God, not on worldly wealth or status. 2. Salt and Light: Influence with Purpose Jesus calls His followers to be "the salt of the earth" and "the light of the world" (Matthew 5:13-14). This is a call to action, encouraging us to preserve goodness and illuminate truth in a world that desperately needs both. Our lives should reflect God's love and truth, making a positive impact on those around us. 3. Fulfillment of the Law: A Higher Standard In Matthew 5:17, Jesus declares, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them." This reminds us that Jesus is the fulfillment of God's promises, and He calls us to a higher standard of righteousness that goes beyond mere rule-following to a heart transformed by His love. 4. Anger and Reconciliation: The Heart of the Matter Jesus teaches that harboring anger is akin to murder in God's eyes (Matthew 5:21-22). He emphasizes the importance of reconciliation, urging us to settle disputes quickly. This lesson highlights the value of maintaining pure hearts and relationships, reflecting God's grace and forgiveness. 5. Adultery and Lust: Purity of Heart In Matthew 5:28, Jesus says, "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart." This challenges us to guard our thoughts and desires, striving for purity in both action and intention, and recognizing the sanctity of relationships. 6. Divorce: Commitment and Covenant Jesus addresses the seriousness of marriage, stating that divorce should not be taken lightly (Matthew 5:31-32). This lesson underscores the importance of commitment and the sacred nature of the marriage covenant, encouraging us to honor our vows and seek reconciliation. 7. Oaths: Let Your Yes Be Yes In Matthew 5:37, Jesus advises, "Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.'" This teaches us the value of honesty and integrity. Our words should be trustworthy, reflecting the truthfulness of our character and the faithfulness of God. 8. Love Your Enemies: Radical Love Perhaps one of the most challenging teachings, Jesus instructs us to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). This radical love mirrors God's unconditional love for us and calls us to rise above hatred and retaliation, embodying the grace of Christ. 9. Turn the Other Cheek: Respond with Grace Jesus' command to "turn the other cheek" (Matthew 5:39) encourages us to respond to offense with grace rather than revenge. This lesson teaches us to break the cycle of retaliation and to trust in God's justice, demonstrating the power of forgiveness. 10. Be Perfect: Strive for Holiness Finally, Jesus calls us to "be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect" (Matthew 5:48). While perfection may seem unattainable, this is an invitation to pursue holiness and reflect God's character in our lives, relying on His strength and grace to grow in righteousness. These lessons from Matthew 5 challenge us to live counter-culturally, embodying the values of God's kingdom and reflecting His love and truth in every aspect of our lives. Topics 1. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) The Beatitudes are a series of blessings pronounced by Jesus, each beginning with "Blessed are..." These statements describe the attitudes and characteristics of those who are part of God's kingdom. For example, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). The Greek word for "blessed" is "μακάριοι" (makarioi), which conveys a sense of divine favor and happiness. 2. Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16) Jesus uses the metaphors of salt and light to describe the influence of His followers in the world. "You are the salt of the earth... You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:13-14). The Greek word for "salt" is "ἅλας" (halas), symbolizing preservation and flavor, while "light" is "φῶς" (phōs), representing guidance and truth. 3. Fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17-20) Jesus emphasizes that He has not come to abolish the Law or the Prophets but to fulfill them. "For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished" (Matthew 5:18). The term "fulfill" in Greek is "πληρόω" (plēroō), meaning to complete or bring to full expression. 4. Anger and Reconciliation (Matthew 5:21-26) Jesus teaches about the deeper implications of the commandment "You shall not murder," extending it to anger and reconciliation. "But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment" (Matthew 5:22). The Greek word for "angry" is "ὀργίζομαι" (orgizomai), indicating a deep-seated wrath. 5. Adultery and Lust (Matthew 5:27-30) Jesus expands the commandment against adultery to include lustful thoughts. "But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28). The Greek word for "lust" is "ἐπιθυμέω" (epithymeō), meaning a strong desire or coveting. 6. Divorce (Matthew 5:31-32) Jesus addresses the issue of divorce, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage. "But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, brings adultery upon her" (Matthew 5:32). The Greek term for "sexual immorality" is "πορνεία" (porneia), encompassing various forms of illicit sexual behavior. 7. Oaths (Matthew 5:33-37) Jesus instructs His followers to avoid swearing oaths and to speak truthfully. "But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.' For anything more comes from the evil one" (Matthew 5:37). The Greek word for "oath" is "ὅρκος" (horkos), referring to a solemn promise or vow. 8. Retaliation (Matthew 5:38-42) Jesus teaches against the principle of "an eye for an eye" and advocates for non-retaliation and generosity. "But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also" (Matthew 5:39). The Greek word for "resist" is "ἀνθίστημι" (anthistēmi), meaning to oppose or withstand. 9. Love for Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48) Jesus calls His followers to love their enemies and pray for those who persecute them. "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). The Greek word for "love" here is "ἀγαπάω" (agapaō), denoting a selfless, unconditional love. Themes 1. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) The Beatitudes describe the attitudes and characteristics of those who are blessed in the kingdom of heaven. Each statement begins with "Blessed are," indicating a state of spiritual well-being and prosperity. The Greek word "μακάριοι" (makarioi) is used for "blessed," implying a deep, abiding joy and favor from God. 2. Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16) Jesus calls His followers to be the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world." This theme emphasizes the influence and responsibility of Christians to preserve goodness and illuminate truth in a world that can be corrupt and dark. The Greek word "φῶς" (phōs) for "light" signifies the revealing and guiding nature of believers' lives. 3. Fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17-20) Jesus declares that He has not come to abolish the Law or the Prophets but to fulfill them. This theme underscores the continuity and completion of the Old Testament in Christ. The Greek term "πληρόω" (plēroō) for "fulfill" suggests bringing to full expression or realization. 4. Teaching on Anger (Matthew 5:21-26) Jesus expands on the commandment "You shall not murder," addressing the root of anger and reconciliation. This theme highlights the importance of inner righteousness and the dangers of harboring anger, which can lead to judgment. 5. Teaching on Adultery (Matthew 5:27-30) Jesus intensifies the commandment against adultery by addressing lustful thoughts. This theme emphasizes purity of heart and the seriousness of sin, even in thought, as the Greek word "μοιχεύω" (moicheuō) for "adultery" extends beyond physical acts to intentions. 6. Teaching on Divorce (Matthew 5:31-32) Jesus addresses the issue of divorce, affirming the sanctity and permanence of marriage. This theme reflects the seriousness of the marriage covenant and the conditions under which divorce is permissible. 7. Teaching on Oaths (Matthew 5:33-37) Jesus instructs against making oaths, advocating for simple and honest communication. This theme stresses integrity and truthfulness, as the Greek word "ὅρκος" (horkos) for "oath" implies a binding promise that should not be necessary for truthful speech. 8. Teaching on Retaliation (Matthew 5:38-42) Jesus challenges the principle of "an eye for an eye," promoting non-retaliation and generosity. This theme encourages a radical response to injustice, reflecting God's grace and mercy. 9. Love for Enemies (Matthew 5:43-48) Jesus commands love for enemies and prayer for persecutors, illustrating the perfect love of the Father. This theme calls for a love that transcends natural inclinations, as the Greek word "ἀγαπάω" (agapaō) for "love" denotes selfless, unconditional love. Prayer Points Pray for a heart that is humble and open to God's leading. Ask God to help you be a light in your community, reflecting His love and truth. Seek God's strength to pursue righteousness and live according to His standards. Pray for the ability to love and forgive others, even when it is difficult. As we delve into Matthew 5, may we be inspired to live out the values of the kingdom of heaven, embodying the character of Christ in every aspect of our lives. Answering Tough Questions 1. Matthew 5:17 – If Jesus came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, why do most Christians ignore many Old Testament rules today? 2. Matthew 5:22 – How does equating anger with murder align with other biblical texts where anger seems acceptable (e.g., John 2:15)? 3. Matthew 5:29–30 – Are there any historical records of early Christians literally following the command to remove body parts that cause sin? 4. Matthew 5:45 – How can attributing sunshine and rain to God’s direct action be reconciled with modern scientific understanding of weather and astronomy? 5. Matthew 5:3–12 – If the meek and persecuted are supposed to be blessed, why do so many suffer unjustly without apparent divine intervention? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do the Beatitudes redefine the understanding of blessedness? 2. In what ways can believers be 'salt and light' in today's world? 3. Reflect on Jesus' assertion that He came to fulfill the Law. How does this understanding influence your interpretation of Old Testament laws? 4. How does Jesus' teaching on anger challenge conventional understanding of sin? 5. In what ways can Jesus' teaching on oaths guide our communication in the present day? 6. How does Jesus' command to love enemies challenge conventional norms of justice and retaliation? 7. In what ways does this chapter present a transformative vision of life in the Kingdom of God? 8. Reflect on how the principles outlined in the Sermon on the Mount could influence social responsibility in our communities. 9. How does Jesus' call to a higher righteousness affect your personal spiritual journey? 10. What are some practical ways to live out the values presented in the Beatitudes in today's society? 11. How can we reconcile the teachings on divorce with the different life situations people face today? 12. How can we "turn the other cheek" in a society that often promotes revenge? 13. How does the concept of perfect love, as taught by Jesus, change your perception of love in today's world? 14. How does Jesus' teaching on adultery influence your understanding of purity and faithfulness? 15. How can you implement the principle of being 'salt and light' in your workplace or home? 16. What steps can you take to ensure your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees, as per Jesus' teaching? 17. How does Jesus' teaching on reconciliation influence your relationships and conflict resolution strategies? 18. How can you practice the Sermon on the Mount's teachings in your daily life? 19. How do you respond to the command to be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect? 20. How does Jesus' teaching about retaliation and loving your enemies challenge your attitudes towards people who have wronged you? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions