Lectionary Calendar

Thursday, November 21st, 2024
the Week of Proper 28 / Ordinary 33

Attention!

Take your personal ministry to the Next Level by helping StudyLight build churches and supporting pastors in Uganda.
Click here to join the effort!

Bible Commentaries
Matthew 5

MatthewMat 4 MatthewMat MatthewMat 6

Recherche de…

Resource Toolbox

Version imprimable Droit d'auteur Bibliographie

Verses 1-2

Matthew 5:1-2 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: 2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
Jesus begins teaching the people the “Be-Attitudes” …how we should desire and strive to be as we grow in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus!
These attitudes cascade upon each other and are meant to come as a “Package”.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 1-2

Matthew 5:1-2 And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: 2 And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
Jesus begins teaching the people the “Be-Attitudes” …how we should desire and strive to be as we grow in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus!
These attitudes cascade upon each other and are meant to come as a “Package”.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 3-5

Our Spiritual Condition
Matthew 5:3-5 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
1. Looking for Inner Joy?
  1. “Blessed” …we could say, “Oh how happy is the person who…”
  2. “Blessed.” (The Latin word for blessed is beatus, and from this comes the word beatitude.)
  3. This was a powerful word to those who heard Jesus that day. To them it meant “divine joy and perfect happiness.” We find this when we walk after these teachings of Jesus!
  4. “Blessed” implied an inner satisfaction and sufficiency that did not depend on outward circumstances for happiness. This is what the Lord offers those who trust Him!
  5. Blessed includes:
    1. (Contentment) 1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
    2. Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
    3. Isaiah 26:3-4 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. 4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:
    4. Nehemiah 8:10c for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
2. Our Depravity (v3)
  Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
  1. To be poor in spirit means to be humble, to have a correct estimate of oneself
    1. Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
  2. It is honesty with ourselves: we know ourselves, accept ourselves, and try to be ourselves to the glory of God.
    1. Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
    2. Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
3. Our Attitude (v4)
  Matthew 5:4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
  1. We mourn over sin and despise it. We see sin the way God sees it and seek to treat it the way God does.
    1. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
    2. “Confess” (Homologeo) -- to say the same thing as God about our sin and not deny it.
  2. He Mourns …Not for fear of missing the kingdom, but:
    1. Over everything that hinders his greater growth into the image of Christ;
    2. Over the sins of others;
    3. Over the enemies of the Cross.
4. Our Direction (v5)
  Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
  1. Meekness is not weakness,
    1. This word translated “meek” was used by the Greeks to describe a horse that had been broken. It refers to power under control. Moses and Jesus were meek men (Num. 12:3; Matt. 11:29).
    2. Luke 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
    3. Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
  2. They shall inherit the EARTH…

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 3-5

Our Spiritual Condition
Matthew 5:3-5 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
1. Looking for Inner Joy?
  1. “Blessed” …we could say, “Oh how happy is the person who…”
  2. “Blessed.” (The Latin word for blessed is beatus, and from this comes the word beatitude.)
  3. This was a powerful word to those who heard Jesus that day. To them it meant “divine joy and perfect happiness.” We find this when we walk after these teachings of Jesus!
  4. “Blessed” implied an inner satisfaction and sufficiency that did not depend on outward circumstances for happiness. This is what the Lord offers those who trust Him!
  5. Blessed includes:
    1. (Contentment) 1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
    2. Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
    3. Isaiah 26:3-4 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. 4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:
    4. Nehemiah 8:10c for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
2. Our Depravity (v3)
  Matthew 5:3 Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
  1. To be poor in spirit means to be humble, to have a correct estimate of oneself
    1. Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
  2. It is honesty with ourselves: we know ourselves, accept ourselves, and try to be ourselves to the glory of God.
    1. Isaiah 64:6 But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.
    2. Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?
3. Our Attitude (v4)
  Matthew 5:4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
  1. We mourn over sin and despise it. We see sin the way God sees it and seek to treat it the way God does.
    1. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
    2. “Confess” (Homologeo) -- to say the same thing as God about our sin and not deny it.
  2. He Mourns …Not for fear of missing the kingdom, but:
    1. Over everything that hinders his greater growth into the image of Christ;
    2. Over the sins of others;
    3. Over the enemies of the Cross.
4. Our Direction (v5)
  Matthew 5:5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
  1. Meekness is not weakness,
    1. This word translated “meek” was used by the Greeks to describe a horse that had been broken. It refers to power under control. Moses and Jesus were meek men (Num. 12:3; Matt. 11:29).
    2. Luke 9:23 And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.
    3. Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
  2. They shall inherit the EARTH…

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 6-9

Our Lifestyle
1. Are You Hungry? (v6)
  Matthew 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
  1. Hunger: Matthew 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
    1. Yearly Bible Reading Plan (Reading the Bible to know God and allow Him to both will and do of His good pleasure (Phil 2:13))
  2. Thirst:
    1. Psalms 143:6 I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah.
    2. Isaiah 55:1-3 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. 2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. 3 Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.
    3. Isaiah 55:6-7 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
    4. John 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
  3. Righteousness:
    1. 2 Corinthians 5:20-21 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
    2. Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
    3. Romans 3:21-22a But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe:
  4. He Hungers and Thirsts: Not after the pleasures of sin and worldliness, but after righteousness- righteousness unto God. These cravings are the natural desires of the new man.
    1. James 1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
2. Need Mercy? (v7)
  Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
  1. Mercy is NOT getting what we deserve.
  2. Lamentations 3:21-23 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. 22 It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
  3. Psalms 36:7 How excellent is thy lovingkindness (MERCY), O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.
  4. Psalms 63:3 Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
  5. Jeremiah 31:3 The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.
  6. He is Merciful : He delights to show mercy because he himself has had great mercy showed him …Christ prayed for His enemies, so does the merciful person.
3. Want to See God? (v8)
  Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
  1. In the ancient Greek, the phrase pure of heart has the idea of straightness, honesty, and clarity.
  2. This describes someone who isn't constantly "dirty" from all the little "stains" that come from contact with this world.
  3. For they shall see God: In this, the pure of heart receive the most wonderful reward. They shall enjoy greater intimacy with God than they could have imagined.
  4. Ultimately, this intimate relationship with God must become our greatest motivation for purity, greater than a fear of getting caught or a fear of consequences.
  5. Intimacy with God…that’s what this is about!
    1. Sin creates a barrier to intimacy that grieves the Father.
4. Who’s Your Daddy? (v9)
  Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
  1. Luke 6:35-38 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. 36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. 37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
  2. Matthew 5:23-25 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.
  3. Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
  4. Children of God: John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 6-9

Our Lifestyle
1. Are You Hungry? (v6)
  Matthew 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
  1. Hunger: Matthew 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
    1. Yearly Bible Reading Plan (Reading the Bible to know God and allow Him to both will and do of His good pleasure (Phil 2:13))
  2. Thirst:
    1. Psalms 143:6 I stretch forth my hands unto thee: my soul thirsteth after thee, as a thirsty land. Selah.
    2. Isaiah 55:1-3 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. 2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. 3 Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.
    3. Isaiah 55:6-7 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
    4. John 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
  3. Righteousness:
    1. 2 Corinthians 5:20-21 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
    2. Romans 1:16-17 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
    3. Romans 3:21-22a But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe:
  4. He Hungers and Thirsts: Not after the pleasures of sin and worldliness, but after righteousness- righteousness unto God. These cravings are the natural desires of the new man.
    1. James 1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
2. Need Mercy? (v7)
  Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
  1. Mercy is NOT getting what we deserve.
  2. Lamentations 3:21-23 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. 22 It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
  3. Psalms 36:7 How excellent is thy lovingkindness (MERCY), O God! therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of thy wings.
  4. Psalms 63:3 Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
  5. Jeremiah 31:3 The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.
  6. He is Merciful : He delights to show mercy because he himself has had great mercy showed him …Christ prayed for His enemies, so does the merciful person.
3. Want to See God? (v8)
  Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
  1. In the ancient Greek, the phrase pure of heart has the idea of straightness, honesty, and clarity.
  2. This describes someone who isn't constantly "dirty" from all the little "stains" that come from contact with this world.
  3. For they shall see God: In this, the pure of heart receive the most wonderful reward. They shall enjoy greater intimacy with God than they could have imagined.
  4. Ultimately, this intimate relationship with God must become our greatest motivation for purity, greater than a fear of getting caught or a fear of consequences.
  5. Intimacy with God…that’s what this is about!
    1. Sin creates a barrier to intimacy that grieves the Father.
4. Who’s Your Daddy? (v9)
  Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
  1. Luke 6:35-38 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. 36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful. 37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: 38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
  2. Matthew 5:23-25 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.
  3. Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
  4. Children of God: John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 10-12

God’s Reward Program (v10-12)
Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
1. John 16:1-3 These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. 2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. 3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.
2. John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
3. Example:
  1. Acts 5:27-32 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, 28 Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. 29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. 31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
  2. Acts 5:40-42 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. 42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
1. Happiness, Joy, Contentment come through FAITH in God, not circumstances.
  1. Hebrews 11:1, 6 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 10-12

God’s Reward Program (v10-12)
Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
1. John 16:1-3 These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. 2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. 3 And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.
2. John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
3. Example:
  1. Acts 5:27-32 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, 28 Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. 29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. 31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.
  2. Acts 5:40-42 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. 42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.
Conclusion
1. Happiness, Joy, Contentment come through FAITH in God, not circumstances.
  1. Hebrews 11:1, 6 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. 6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verse 13

Introduction:
1. Read: Matthew 5:1-12
  1. Jesus begins teaching the people the “Be-Attitudes” …how we should desire and strive to be as we grow in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus!
  2. Jesus then moves to the servitudes…
Salt
Matthew 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
1. Flavor
  1. Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
  2. We “GET” to represent Christ…we get to be the good taste of Christ to the World…do we see that?
2. Preservative
  1. Meat in those days would spoil quickly if not salted – it acts as a preservative and kills the germs / bacteria in what it’s on.
  2. We are to be a preservative to the world.
  3. We are to walk uprightly in the truth, setting the example of righteous living (not legalistically but joyfully) …we “GET TO”!
  4. When we begin to compromise our walk with Christ and look like the world, where is there example.
    1. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
    2. 2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
3. Salt as an Antiseptic
  1. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
  2. Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
  3. Bring people to Jesus and allow HIM to HEAL them!
4. How do we become Salt?
  1. Walking in integrity!
    1. Psalms 26:11 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.
    2. Proverbs 20:7 The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.
    3. Joshua 1:9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
    4. Joshua 24:14-15 Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. 15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verse 13

Introduction:
1. Read: Matthew 5:1-12
  1. Jesus begins teaching the people the “Be-Attitudes” …how we should desire and strive to be as we grow in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus!
  2. Jesus then moves to the servitudes…
Salt
Matthew 5:13 Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
1. Flavor
  1. Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
  2. We “GET” to represent Christ…we get to be the good taste of Christ to the World…do we see that?
2. Preservative
  1. Meat in those days would spoil quickly if not salted – it acts as a preservative and kills the germs / bacteria in what it’s on.
  2. We are to be a preservative to the world.
  3. We are to walk uprightly in the truth, setting the example of righteous living (not legalistically but joyfully) …we “GET TO”!
  4. When we begin to compromise our walk with Christ and look like the world, where is there example.
    1. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.
    2. 2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
3. Salt as an Antiseptic
  1. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
  2. Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
  3. Bring people to Jesus and allow HIM to HEAL them!
4. How do we become Salt?
  1. Walking in integrity!
    1. Psalms 26:11 But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.
    2. Proverbs 20:7 The just man walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him.
    3. Joshua 1:9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
    4. Joshua 24:14-15 Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. 15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 14-16

Light of the World
Matthew 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
1. Light illuminates – (from the view point of joy and hope) it can show people what they don’t have and what we DO have!
  1. 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?
2. 1 John 1:5-7 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
3. 1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
4. How do we become a light for Jesus??
  1. Exalt God with our lives!
  2. Psalms 99:5 Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy.
  3. Psalms 118:28-29 Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: thou art my God, I will exalt thee. 29 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
  4. Revelation 4:11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
  5. Walk in the joy of the Lord so people see there is a reason for your hope and a difference in your life!
  6. Song about woman who picks up toys as unto the Lord…even the apparent normal life can be extraordinary – if we look at our get to’s and not our have not’s.
  7. Courageous…spoke to remembering with joy what we do have, instead of looking with dissatisfaction at what we don’t have…
  8. Do we walk in contentment with the Lord?
  9. If we choose to not look at whether the glass is half full or half empty, but rather look to the creator of the universe who pours into each glass as HE sees fit, we find contentment.
  10. David is an example…he had it on his heart – his heart was after God’s own heart- and he wanted to build a temple for God but God said NO! Did he throw a fit, walk about surly, get bitter or do it anyway? No, he accepted God’s will for his life and made the best of it by collecting the materials needed for the temple. He walked in a support role subordinate to the man God did call to do it. Just because we have something on our heart doesn’t mean we’re to do it, rather it may be that God wants us to initiate the work, come along side the work or simply pray for the work and He will accomplish His perfect will.
  11. Remember, it is God who both wills and does of His good pleasure! (Phil 2:13).
    1. (Contentment) 1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
    2. Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
    3. Isaiah 26:3-4 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. 4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:
    4. Nehemiah 8:10c for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
Glorify Your Father in Heaven
1. Matt 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
  1. Isaiah 43:7 Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
  2. Isaiah 42:8 I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.
2. John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
Conclusion
Remember your Savior…and see what you “GET” to do for Him!

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 14-16

Light of the World
Matthew 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
1. Light illuminates – (from the view point of joy and hope) it can show people what they don’t have and what we DO have!
  1. 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. 15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: 16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?
2. 1 John 1:5-7 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
3. 1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
4. How do we become a light for Jesus??
  1. Exalt God with our lives!
  2. Psalms 99:5 Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his footstool; for he is holy.
  3. Psalms 118:28-29 Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: thou art my God, I will exalt thee. 29 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
  4. Revelation 4:11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
  5. Walk in the joy of the Lord so people see there is a reason for your hope and a difference in your life!
  6. Song about woman who picks up toys as unto the Lord…even the apparent normal life can be extraordinary – if we look at our get to’s and not our have not’s.
  7. Courageous…spoke to remembering with joy what we do have, instead of looking with dissatisfaction at what we don’t have…
  8. Do we walk in contentment with the Lord?
  9. If we choose to not look at whether the glass is half full or half empty, but rather look to the creator of the universe who pours into each glass as HE sees fit, we find contentment.
  10. David is an example…he had it on his heart – his heart was after God’s own heart- and he wanted to build a temple for God but God said NO! Did he throw a fit, walk about surly, get bitter or do it anyway? No, he accepted God’s will for his life and made the best of it by collecting the materials needed for the temple. He walked in a support role subordinate to the man God did call to do it. Just because we have something on our heart doesn’t mean we’re to do it, rather it may be that God wants us to initiate the work, come along side the work or simply pray for the work and He will accomplish His perfect will.
  11. Remember, it is God who both wills and does of His good pleasure! (Phil 2:13).
    1. (Contentment) 1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
    2. Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
    3. Isaiah 26:3-4 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. 4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:
    4. Nehemiah 8:10c for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
Glorify Your Father in Heaven
1. Matt 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
  1. Isaiah 43:7 Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
  2. Isaiah 42:8 I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images.
2. John 13:34-35 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. 35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
Conclusion
Remember your Savior…and see what you “GET” to do for Him!

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 17-42

Introduction: Read: Matthew 5:1-12
1. Jesus begins teaching the people the “Be-Attitudes” …how we should desire and strive to be as we grow in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus!
2. Jesus then moved to the servitudes…
  1. Salt of the Earth -- Matthew 5:13a Ye are the salt of the earth:
    1. Flavor
    2. Preservative
    3. How do we become Salt?
  2. Light of the World -- Matthew 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world.
3. And with v17 starts preaching against the “ME” attitudes – the attitudes of the heart!
Right to the Heart!
To Begin: Jeremiah 17:7-10 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. 8 For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. 9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? 10 I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.
1. Fulfillment of the Law
  Matthew 5:17-20 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
  1. the law required death for disobedience. Jesus came to fulfill the law by dying for our disobedience.
  2. He came to fulfill the prophets where Isaiah said, "All we like sheep have gone astray; we've turned every one of us to our way; and God laid on him the iniquities of us all" ( Isa 53:6 ).
  3. He came to fulfill the law and the prophets. “I haven't come to destroy it; I've come to fulfill it.”
  4. "Christ is the end of the law to those that believe" ( Rom 10:4 );
  5. because he has brought us into a new relationship with God that involves our faith in Jesus Christ as the basis for our righteous standing before God for he fulfilled the law. He did not come to bring an end to it but to fulfill it, and he fulfilled the requirements of the law for us, dying in our place.
  6. The Law will not pass away…(not one “jot or tittle”)
    1. Now, one day Jesus was asked the question, "What is the greatest commandment?" And Jesus answered correctly, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, with all thy strength and with all their mind". And Jesus added, "And the second is just like it; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself". And he said, "in these two are all the law and the prophets"( Mat 22:36-40 ). This is a summary, a very short summary of all of the law and the prophets; love God with all your heart, love your neighbor as yourself.
    2. Paul the apostle said, "For love is the fulfilling of the law and he who loves has fulfilled the law"( Rom 13:8 ). Now the law was given in negative: thou shalt not, thou shalt not, thou shalt not. Jesus turned it around to the positive: "thou shalt love the Lord thy God, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself" and therein is the fulfillment.
  7. [And] if a man would teach others to break the commandments, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but he who teaches those to keep the commandments shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven ( Mat 5:19 ).
    1. …But then Jesus said:
      For I say unto you, That unless your righteousness shall exceed that of the scribes and the Pharisees, you will in no wise enter the kingdom of heaven ( Mat 5:20 ).
  8. But then Jesus goes on to illustrate what he meant by that, for he tells them…
2. Anger
  1. Murder
    Matthew 5:21-22 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: 22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.
    1. Raca: expressed contempt for their intelligence.
    2. Fool: showed contempt for their character.
    3. IT’S NOT THE OUTWARD, it’s the INWARD that proves our righteousness!
      1. 1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
    4. Contrast Anger with being a Peacemaker
  2. Peacemaker
    Matthew 5:23-26 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. 26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
    1. Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
3. Lust
  Matthew 5:27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. 29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. 30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
  1. Again, it’s the issue of the heart
  2. Even if you cut off your hand or plucked out your eye…it wouldn’t fix the heart issue.
4. Divorce
  Matthew 5:31-32 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: 32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
  1. The Liberals believed: Causes like “burning your eggs” could be used
  2. The Conservatives: Adultery ONLY
  3. Jesus says the ONLY cause is fornication: sexual intimacy outside of marriage.
    1. Fornication is a type of Spiritual Idolatry!
    2. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
5. Keeping Your Word
  Matthew 5:33-37 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: 34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: 35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. 36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. 37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
  1. Let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ … “Lord willing!”
6. Vengeance
  Matthew 5:38-42 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. 41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. 42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.
  1. As disciples, we have given up our rights…
    1. “I deserve…”, I have the right…”, “it’s my prerogative…”
    2. Jesus is telling us that we may not exert our rights, rather we are to submit our wills to the Father in Heaven!
    3. Romans 12:19-21 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. 20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 17-42

Introduction: Read: Matthew 5:1-12
1. Jesus begins teaching the people the “Be-Attitudes” …how we should desire and strive to be as we grow in Grace and the knowledge of Jesus!
2. Jesus then moved to the servitudes…
  1. Salt of the Earth -- Matthew 5:13a Ye are the salt of the earth:
    1. Flavor
    2. Preservative
    3. How do we become Salt?
  2. Light of the World -- Matthew 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world.
3. And with v17 starts preaching against the “ME” attitudes – the attitudes of the heart!
Right to the Heart!
To Begin: Jeremiah 17:7-10 Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. 8 For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. 9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? 10 I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.
1. Fulfillment of the Law
  Matthew 5:17-20 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
  1. the law required death for disobedience. Jesus came to fulfill the law by dying for our disobedience.
  2. He came to fulfill the prophets where Isaiah said, "All we like sheep have gone astray; we've turned every one of us to our way; and God laid on him the iniquities of us all" ( Isa 53:6 ).
  3. He came to fulfill the law and the prophets. “I haven't come to destroy it; I've come to fulfill it.”
  4. "Christ is the end of the law to those that believe" ( Rom 10:4 );
  5. because he has brought us into a new relationship with God that involves our faith in Jesus Christ as the basis for our righteous standing before God for he fulfilled the law. He did not come to bring an end to it but to fulfill it, and he fulfilled the requirements of the law for us, dying in our place.
  6. The Law will not pass away…(not one “jot or tittle”)
    1. Now, one day Jesus was asked the question, "What is the greatest commandment?" And Jesus answered correctly, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, with all thy strength and with all their mind". And Jesus added, "And the second is just like it; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself". And he said, "in these two are all the law and the prophets"( Mat 22:36-40 ). This is a summary, a very short summary of all of the law and the prophets; love God with all your heart, love your neighbor as yourself.
    2. Paul the apostle said, "For love is the fulfilling of the law and he who loves has fulfilled the law"( Rom 13:8 ). Now the law was given in negative: thou shalt not, thou shalt not, thou shalt not. Jesus turned it around to the positive: "thou shalt love the Lord thy God, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself" and therein is the fulfillment.
  7. [And] if a man would teach others to break the commandments, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but he who teaches those to keep the commandments shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven ( Mat 5:19 ).
    1. …But then Jesus said:
      For I say unto you, That unless your righteousness shall exceed that of the scribes and the Pharisees, you will in no wise enter the kingdom of heaven ( Mat 5:20 ).
  8. But then Jesus goes on to illustrate what he meant by that, for he tells them…
2. Anger
  1. Murder
    Matthew 5:21-22 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: 22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.
    1. Raca: expressed contempt for their intelligence.
    2. Fool: showed contempt for their character.
    3. IT’S NOT THE OUTWARD, it’s the INWARD that proves our righteousness!
      1. 1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
    4. Contrast Anger with being a Peacemaker
  2. Peacemaker
    Matthew 5:23-26 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. 26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
    1. Romans 12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
3. Lust
  Matthew 5:27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: 28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. 29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. 30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
  1. Again, it’s the issue of the heart
  2. Even if you cut off your hand or plucked out your eye…it wouldn’t fix the heart issue.
4. Divorce
  Matthew 5:31-32 It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: 32 But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
  1. The Liberals believed: Causes like “burning your eggs” could be used
  2. The Conservatives: Adultery ONLY
  3. Jesus says the ONLY cause is fornication: sexual intimacy outside of marriage.
    1. Fornication is a type of Spiritual Idolatry!
    2. 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. 19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
5. Keeping Your Word
  Matthew 5:33-37 Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths: 34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: 35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. 36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black. 37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
  1. Let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ … “Lord willing!”
6. Vengeance
  Matthew 5:38-42 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. 41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. 42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.
  1. As disciples, we have given up our rights…
    1. “I deserve…”, I have the right…”, “it’s my prerogative…”
    2. Jesus is telling us that we may not exert our rights, rather we are to submit our wills to the Father in Heaven!
    3. Romans 12:19-21 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. 20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. 21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 43-48

Walk in Christ’s Righteousness
1. Love Your Neighbor
  Matthew 5:43-47 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
  1. Love is a choice! If you love me, obey me à Love your neighbor!
  2. We’re to follow after Christ’s example…His love is:
    1. Patient
    2. Kind
    3. Sacrificial
    4. Unconditional
    5. Without Fail
  3. Note: it is UNCONDITIONAL Love!
2. Perfection
  Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
  1. 1 Timothy 1:5-11 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: 6 From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; 7 Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. 8 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; 9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10 For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; 11 According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.
  2. Romans 3:21-26 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.
3. Conclusion
  2 Corinthians 5:14-21 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: 15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. 16 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

return to 'Top of Page'

Verses 43-48

Walk in Christ’s Righteousness
1. Love Your Neighbor
  Matthew 5:43-47 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
  1. Love is a choice! If you love me, obey me à Love your neighbor!
  2. We’re to follow after Christ’s example…His love is:
    1. Patient
    2. Kind
    3. Sacrificial
    4. Unconditional
    5. Without Fail
  3. Note: it is UNCONDITIONAL Love!
2. Perfection
  Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
  1. 1 Timothy 1:5-11 Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: 6 From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; 7 Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. 8 But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; 9 Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, 10 For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine; 11 According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.
  2. Romans 3:21-26 But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.
3. Conclusion
  2 Corinthians 5:14-21 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: 15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. 16 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. 17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

return to 'Top of Page'

MatthewMat 4 MatthewMat MatthewMat 6

Copyright Statement
Brown's Commentary on the New Testament is reproduced by permission of author. All other rights reserved.

Bibliographical Information
Brown, Jim. "Commentary on Matthew 5". "Brown's Commentary on the New Testament". https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnc/matthew-5.html. 2017.

Bible CommentariesMatthew 5

Brown's Commentary on the New TestamentBrown's Commentary

Bible Commentaries
Matthew 5