Hopefully making theology simpler to understand! (2 Corinthians 1:12)

I have started a small group series on Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7). I am sharing my notes in case anyone else wants to use them with their group. [Reminder that these are only notes!]

Sermon on the Mount – Part 9

Matthew 5:1-2:
Jesus wants to teach the crowds: Who are they? Jewish disciples: People who understand the
Scriptures (at least to a point). Notice from 7:28 the crowds still came along, but this teaching is for His disciples.

What does “blessed” mean?
Based on the first twelve verses, blessed means realizing our own wretchedness and need for a Savior. In other words, it is becoming/being a Christian.

What was discussed last time?

• Retaliation
• Love your enemies
  • “Would you give the Antichrist food and water …?”

Matthew 6:1:
Beware practicing where other people can see? What about “let your light shine that they may see”
(5:16)?

Matthew 6:2-4:
What is Jesus saying?
Beware by making sure your motives are right. Are you seeking glory and people liking you, or are you actually loving others?

• Compare (“Said of old”):
  • Proverbs 11:24-25 (gives and gets, is refreshed)
  • Proverbs 22:9, 16 (oppresses poor, gives to rich)
  • Proverbs 25:14 (boast of non-gift)
  • Proverbs 28:27 (who gives will not want, hides eyes is cursed)
• First thing to remember:
  • Proverbs 29:13 – We are all created by God (Made in His image; God gives sight to both)
  • Proverbs 19:17 – We work to serve the Lord (He is kind to the poor in spirit, rewarded by Lord)
    • Love God, love others
• We are reminded and admonished:
  • Proverbs 3:27-28 – 1 John 3:16-18 – James 2:14-17(, 18-26) (have but don’t give, wicked – faith without works is dead)
    • Ephesians 2:8-9 – Does Paul contradict James?
    • No! Paul explains we are not saved by works, James explains our salvation pushes us to good works. In fact:
• Philippians 2:12-13
  • Matthew 25:31-46