◄ Matthew 5 ►
Book Study • Verse Study • Study Que
Summary The Sermon on the Mount Matthew 5 presents a radical vision of life in the Kingdom of God. It calls believers not only to adhere to external commandments but to seek an internal transformation that reflects the love, mercy, and perfection of God. Jesus, through this sermon, encourages His followers to be influential presences in the world, spreading God's love, and working towards righteousness in their daily lives. Section 1: The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) Jesus begins His sermon by pronouncing blessings, also known as the Beatitudes, on those who are poor in spirit, mourn, are meek, hunger and thirst for righteousness, are merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, persecuted, and insulted for His name. He promises them rewards in heaven, portraying the values of the Kingdom of God. Section 2: Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16) Jesus uses metaphors of salt and light to describe the influence of His followers in the world. He emphasizes the need for believers to maintain their 'saltiness' and let their 'light' shine before others through good deeds, so that people may glorify God. Section 3: Jesus and the Law (Matthew 5:17-20) Jesus asserts that He has come not to abolish the Law and the Prophets, but to fulfill them. He insists on the importance of adhering to the commandments and teaches that one's righteousness must surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees. Section 4: Anger, Adultery, Divorce, Oaths (Matthew 5:21-37) Jesus deepens the understanding of the law, equating anger with murder, lust with adultery, and emphasizing the gravity of divorce. He also advises against making false oaths but encourages straightforward truth-telling. Section 5: Retaliation and Love for Enemies (Matthew 5:38-48) In the final section, Jesus challenges the concepts of revenge and animosity towards enemies. He calls for love, even for enemies, and advocates turning the other cheek. He concludes by calling His followers to perfect love, as their Heavenly Father is perfect. 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. 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. 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions