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 10

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?
• Giving to the needy
• Love your neighbor as yourself
o We are serving Christ when we serve others.

Matthew 6:19-21:
But isn’t wealth a sign of blessing?

• As usual, what is our focus?
• 1 Timothy 6:1-10
  • Why vv. 1-2?
    • Be good servants – good employees!
    • Be good masters – good managers!
    • Don’t just focus on the money of work, rather doing the best work (as for the Lord – Colossians 3:23)
  • False teachers focus on money and lustful, covetous, earthly desires.
  • It is the love of money that leads to so many problems.

Matthew 6:22-24:
What is Jesus saying?

• How do we view the world and Scripture?
  • With Holy Spirit-eyes or worldly eyes?
• Mark 7:14-23
  • The darkness comes from our sinful desires

What does it look like to serve two masters?

• Matthew 12:22-32,43-45
  • How many teachers, preachers, prophets(?), apostles(?) claim to be casting out demons and performing healings in the name of Jesus without the full gospel or for money?
  • Many of these people say it is demanded we speak in tongues and heal, and even claim to be super-apostles, all while claiming to regularly visit heaven and speak with angels as they bind and rebuke demons.
    • 2 Corinthians 11:1-15
• 2 Peter 2:17-22 (paraphrase vv.10-16)

Jesus always takes us deeper.

• It’s not just about money and budgeting and not merely seeking money as an idol.
• Beware the false teachers and false christs (anointed ones) who only want your money – or being one of those yourself!