5:1
We now come to what is possibly the most famous part of Matthew’s gospel, the sermon on the Mount. Some present it as being in some way against the Law, this is absolute nonsense. If Jesus corrects anything it is the teaching of the Pharisees and teachers of the Law. Actually most of the teachings, such as loving our enemies, can be found in the Old Testament.
It is a mistake to treat this as a list of ethical rules, rather it is a description of what the “new creation” is like, what God is transforming us to, what attitudes and heart we should have.
5:2-12
The sermon starts with the be attitudes, and these are quite different from what we might expect, “blessed” could be translated “happy” or “fortunate", “Blessed are the poor in spirit”, The Christian recognises their poor spiritual state, that we do not match up to God’s standards. One might think that we are in a mess, but the kingdom of heaven was created for the poor in spirit, for those who recognise their need of God.
Mourning is not a happy state to be in, but a painful one.But we are assured that we will be comforted.
The world tells us that it is the forceful and strong that get what they want, that “rule the roost”, but Jesus tells us that it is those who trust in the Lord who will inherit the earth, see Ps 37:11.
Hungering for righteousness may seem to be a futile state, but Jesus tells us that we will be filled, justice and righteousness are coming.
Being merciful can be seen to be weak, but we all need mercy, and it is the merciful who will receive mercy.
The worldly wise are cunning and no above telling the odd useful lie, but it is the pure in heart who will see God.
The strong and violent can be seen to be the ones who will prosper, but it is the peacemakers who will be called “children of God”.
Being insulted, persecuted and falsely accused is not pleasant, but those who honour Christe despite all this, will receive a great reward in heaven.
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