52. The sermon on the Mount (Luke 6:17-19; Matthew 5:1b)
Jesus often gave the disciples special teaching that was not available to the crowds. He also often spent time teaching them just before he led them to the crowds. Why do you think that is? Why not simply proceed to teaching the crowds and the disciples simultaneously?
What does the fact that the disciples received special education, correlated with the fact that Jesus had an “inner” and “outer” circle among even the disciples do to the notion of the equality of knowledge or wisdom among Christians? Are all Christians’ opinions equal?
It says that when they came back down the slopes of the mountain, the disciples stood with Jesus, surrounded by the crowds. Could there have been some symbolism going on?
Isn't it interesting that the new law, like the old (Exodus 19:3), was given from a mountain? Do you have any ideas as to why that is?
Jesus was the perfect leader. His leadership skills were exemplary. What principles of leadership do we see in this passage?
It was the custom of the Jewish rabbis to be seated while teaching. Examine the following passages for examples.
Mark 4:1
Mark 9:35
Luke 4:20
Luke 5:3
John 8:2
Why would they be seated? Wouldn’t that make it harder for their students to see them? What purpose could there be to being seated while instructing others?
Notice that hearing Jesus led to healing. Does that have application today? In what way?
The Scriptures say that “healing power went out from Him.” Mark 5:30 tells us that when this power went out from Jesus, He could feel it. Even if someone touched Him from behind, on the fringe of his cloak, He could sense the power leave Him. What do you make of this?
Why did Jesus precede His famous message with these acts of healing and liberation?
The word “blessed” is more than mere happiness. Happiness is often dependent on our circumstances. How can we realize our blessedness when we are poor?
Why do you think God promises future satisfaction to those who are hungry now?
The Jews understood the Kingdom as being an earthly, political thing. How do we modern Christians understand verse 3?
Were the Jews completely wrong? Is there an element of truth to their conception of the Kingdom?
It seems like each thing that we look at as being an evil in life (poverty, hunger, spiritual need, mourning) is a necessary precedent to the good things in life (the Kingdom, satisfaction, comfort). Why is that? How does this work?
How can weeping be turned into joyful laughter? What should we weep over? Does all regret automatically turn eventually into a good thing?
We are used to the world belonging to the aggressive, to the powerful, to the confident. Is verse 5 merely a “pie in the sky, “It’ll all be better bye and bye” promise? Is this literally true even here on earth today?
Notice that we are to be hungry and thirsty for justice? How do we demonstrate that hunger? What do we do about it?
What will happen if we fail to desire justice according to verse 6?
This verse could be related to the Law of Reciprocation i.e. “do unto others as you would have them do to you”; “I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you”; “the wicked lay traps and they themselves fall into them.” Discuss this concept of symmetry in the universe and its relation to mercy.
Is verse 8 advocating good works or achieving a level of perfection in order to attain salvation? How do you know?
Children of God are to have the reputation of peace makers. But how is peace created?
What does this word “bless” mean? Does it mean we are happy? Lucky?
What kind of persecution is “blessed”? Does political, moral, ethical, social persecution also qualify for blessing?
Precisely how are the persecuted blessed according to verse 10? What is the reward?
Is this advocating a doctrine of works? Do we earn our way into heaven?
Why does this verse mean?
How can we identify ourselves with Christ?
Why would we be mocked, excluded, or cursed for this association?
If we count ourselves as Christians and are NOT mocked, excluded, or cursed, what could this indicate?
Did you notice that Christ identified Himself as “the Son of Man?” Do you know the significance of this title? Why would He choose it for this particular conversation?
In verse 20, He says that the poor are blessed. Here in verse 24, He says that the rich will have sorrow. Compare and contrast the two verses.
In verse 21, we are told that the hungry will be satisfied. In verse 25, we discover that those who are satisfied and prosperous now will find sorrow in a future time of awful hunger. What can we learn from this contrast?
In verse 21, we see that those who weep now will be blessed by future laughter. But in verse 25, those who “laugh carelessly” will find their mirth turning to mourning and sorrow. What sorrow is He referring to? Why will “careless laughter” turn into mourning and sorrow?
What is the difference between mourning and sorrow?
Why should we fear public adulation? Why should we rejoice in men’s hate for us, in being ostracized, in insults and scorn (v.22)?
What is the qualification on those persecutions according to the end of verse 22?
If the end of that whole “blessed” series gives us that qualification, what does that tell us? Is simply being poor enough? Is naked hunger sufficient for divine blessing? Is sorrow inherently able to produce future godly laughter?
55. Parable about salt and light (Matthew 5:13-16)
What are the uses of salt?
In what way should a Christian “flavor” his world?
How do we lose our flavor?
What are the consequences of losing our flavor?
Does this mean that it is possible to lose our salvation?
Of what use is the light of a city on a mountain that glows in the night for all to see?
To be called light or the children of light sounds beautiful. However, what does it mean? How should this “light” look in our day to day lives?
How could we be guilty of hiding our light?
What are some ways that we can showcase our light so that all may see the work of God?
Notice that He clearly states that this “saltiness”, this quality of light is our good deeds. How do we let our good deeds shine out for all to see without drawing attention to ourselves like the Pharisees who blew a trumpet so that all could see that they were about to make a gift to the Temple?
Jesus seems to feel that His coming could be misunderstood (v.17). Can you list some ways that people misunderstand Jesus’ purpose here on earth?
What is Jesus referring to when He mentions “the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets?”
The Old Testament and the New Testament are perceived by many as being almost contradictory – almost describing two different Gods. How do we understand the balance between the two?
In what way did Jesus fulfill the Old Testament writings?
The word “heaven” in verse 18 does not refer to the place where God lives but is “ouranos” which means the sky. It is sometimes translated “heavens”. At what point will the heavens and earth disappear? (Isaiah 65:17; 66:22; 2 Peter 3:10-13; Revelation 21:1)
Why is this point in time correlated with the end of God’s purpose for the Law of Moses and the prophets?
What commandments are we to keep and teach others to keep? Which are we to discard?
Why is accurate Scriptural teaching equated with greatness in the Kingdom of heaven? Doesn’t a servant’s attitude constitute true greatness? (Matthew 20:26)
The Pharisees and the teachers of religious law received nothing but contempt from Jesus (Matthew 15:12-14; Luke 11:45-46a). Why does He now use them as a standard by which we measure our obedience?
When Jesus says “you have heard…but I tell you” is He being disrespectful toward the law?
This paragraph opens the section that runs from verse 21 through verse 48. Once Jesus has made it clear that He is not opposing the law itself but interpreting it, He shows how the customary practice of the law in His day is inadequate. Does Christ raise the bar or lower the bar in verses 21-22?
Jesus says that a person who is angry with someone is subject to judgment. Was Jesus ever angry with anyone? Did He ever call someone “fool”? (Matthew 23:13-33)
Then how do we reconcile these two statements? Note the qualifiers in the second half of verse 22.
What is the difference between insulting someone and cursing them? Why is one subject to human judgment and the other to Divine judgment?
We no longer offer sacrifices at an altar in a temple. What are our sacrifices today?
Notice that the person “suddenly remembers”. In the course of his meditations and prayers, the Holy Spirit convicts that person of sin. Why should the person not go any further until he or she has acted upon that conviction?
What is the difference between reconciliation and resolution? Is it possible to achieve one without the other?
Verses 25-26 are integral to the text. They were neither an afterthought nor a further example. How could a court deal with rash anger, pride, spite, scorn? These are not normally matters for a judge or jury. What is Jesus talking about here?
How did you deal with lust prior to becoming a Christian or prior to growing deeper in the faith?
What does it mean to be on watch for what leads to adultery?
What happens when we fail to watch for what leads to adultery?
Why do you suppose society does not see adultery as a real problem, even encouraging lust? What do you suppose will be gained by that mentality?
Why is lust, in God’s will and view, such a serious offense?
Read Job 31:1-12. What do you think Job’s view and plan was to deal with lust?
The problem with an act of sin begins in the heart with inner feelings. What are some inner feelings that can lead to struggling with lust?
50% of Christians (Barna Report, 2000) have had affairs. In addition, at a Youth Pastors conference in 1997, the hotel where the attendees stayed reported the biggest usage of porn from cable TV in their history that week. A pastor offered to do a seminar the following year dealing with pornography, and it was turned down supposedly due to the fact it was irrelevant and unneeded! How, and why, would a Christian think adultery and lust are OK?
Why would setting up a barrier one level above the offence help safeguard you from that sin?
Some people teach that it is OK to look at another with admiration for beauty and not be guilty of "lust." What do you think?
Give an example of a drastic action that might be taken to get rid of whatever may be tempting?
Yes, as a Christian, you have forgiveness of your sins. However, the destruction caused by this sin may not be able to be restored! How can that motivate us to live a life of integrity?
What would happen if you only guarded one entrance to your heart and not the others?
What we do or do not do in the present will echo throughout eternity and determine our place in the future with rewards or condemnation! How can that motivate you to live a life of integrity?
How can you avoid the sin of adultery? Carefully consider all the steps needed and make a commitment to keep them. Then, have someone hold you accountable.
We live in an age of easy divorce and to such a point that we have in the United States what is called "no-fault" divorce, so you can end the marriage without stating a reason! Jesus lived in such a time with similar “no-fault laws.” He goes way beyond any Rabbi or law in that time, and ours, by saying that divorce for any reason is wrong, and unlawful, except for unfaithfulness. In so doing, Jesus removes any doubt of how important marriage is! Jesus further tells us, in so many words, that divorce is actual treachery, as it causes, or forces someone else to sin!
This was during a time when women were considered almost as property, and a man could, and many did, divorce them and leave them destitute without a second thought. Adultery under the Law of the Pharisees and the Roman occupiers at that time saw only the unfaithfulness of the women. Men could do as they saw fit. This was just as the Jews did in the time of the Judges, where everyone did as they saw fit (as they liked). They looked to sin, and ignored law and obedience, which nearly ruined the nation of Israel, and wiped out the Benjamanites (Judges 20). If we can see what a mess that was, perhaps it can help us place our focus on the principles that marriage is an exclusive commitment between a man and wife, with no grounds for separation unless heinous abuse is at work (Genesis 2:24; Malachi 2:10-17; Matthew 19:4-6).
How has your view of the marriage commitment/covenant changed as you have grown in Christ?
What is your opinion about having a "no-fault" divorce in your state/country (a person can divorce their spouse for any reason, or for no reason, and the other spouse has no say)?
Why do you think the Rabbis and Pharisees interpreted the Law (Deuteronomy 24:1-4) so it says any man can, for any reason, divorce his wife?
What kind of society did the Rabbis and Pharisees promote with such a callous attitude toward marriage, and how does that compare with our society’s attitude today?
What do you think Jesus intended marriage to do?
How do you feel when Christian leaders attack the status quo of popular way of thinking and acceptance, and do you think there should be a stronger willingness to stand up to the bad values of society?
Why do you suppose that popular thinking says, “Since others are doing something, it is OK for me to do it too,” attitude?
How would you describe God’s perspective for marriage?
What reasons can you think of that Christians must never marry unbelievers?
How would you describe the husband’s responsibility in marriage?
How would you describe the wife’s responsibility in marriage?
Most people in secular society have a big problem with submission. Why do you suppose that is?
What does Biblical submission in marriage mean to you, and how would you implement it--or why would you not?
What are the benefits of mutual submission in marriage?
What would happen to a rocky marriage if the couple made a commitment to respond to each other out of an attitude of gratitude for what Christ has done for us?
How many reasons can you come up with for why God hates divorce?
The Pharisees missed the point of the Certificate of Divorce, by placing the importance on the certificate and not on the commitment. What was their motivation to do this, and how do those same motivations creep into your relationships? What can you do to stop those bad motivations?
Why should divorce be only a last resort, when no hope remains, and all options of reconciliation have been sought, even in the case of sexual immorality?
What and how can our church teach the proper ways to build solid Christian relationships, and offer programs, such as counseling and acceptance, to those who have made mistakes?
Oaths in the ancient world were extremely important. They were so important, they were almost acknowledged as currency. The Jews during Jesus time swore to all kinds of things, from serious matters to the trivial. They were a statement to the person’s truthfulness and ability to meet a commitment anywhere, from the paying of debts to the promise of marriage. Most of the Jews would make elaborate oaths to testify to the truth of their words and their commitment by claiming the importance of the Temple, or their house and goods--anything except God and His standards. In so doing, they elevated the importance of material things over spiritual things; they measured their word and integrity by others, not to the standards of God.
They had a good reason, so they thought, because, if they broke their word, God’s name was not in vain. However, this became epidemic as the oaths became more and more elaborate, the integrity became worse and worse, and those oaths quickly became broken and worthless. So, the Pharisees and various Rabbis would judge what oaths were binding and what ones were not. As long as God’s name was not in it, the oath could be broken, and people were free of responsibility to their word and commitment.
Jesus calls us to be true to our word as a testimony to our Faith in Him. We are not to be worldly with our words or integrity or drag His good name and defile it with feeble, easily retracted words.
We should be people of our word. When we say "yes," or "no," people should be able to take it as fact. If they can, what causes them to see integrity in us? If they cannot, what would the reasons be?
When we say we will do something, it should be a fact, as good as done. However, what causes some to say one thing, yet do another?
Why do you suppose oaths in the ancient world were so important? Do you think they are important today?
The Pharisees and various Rabbis would judge what oaths were binding and what were not. As long as God’s name was not in it, the oaths could be broken. People did not have to be responsible to their word and commitment. What do you think about the practice of truth in Jesus time, and how does it compare with our legal system today?
Jesus calls us to be true to our word as a testimony to our faith in Him. What should our response to this call be at school, work, home, with friends, with family, and so on?
Why did Jesus have to bring the people back to God’s standards, challenging their trivial disregard to God’s standards and oaths?
Would He have to challenge us or our church with exercising truth? If so, what would that challenge be?
There is nothing complex about truth. If you seek to make it complex, you have no regard for truth or to the God of truth! So, why do we seek to make it complex, seeking loopholes to escape responsibility and righteousness?
Jesus charged the Jewish leaders of mishandling the truth and God’s Word that they claimed to defend. Do you think that some Christian groups do this today? If so, what would be their motivations and rationale to do so?
Why would consistent integrity be essential for the person who claims Christ as Lord of his/her life?
Why would a Christian refuse to be consistent with his/her integrity?
Why are finding loopholes so appealing to people in the law profession, (or any profession) to release their clients from responsibility? What is their justification? When would it be right to do so?
What do you think of this statement: “A Christian has the Spirit of God living within. Thus, when a Christian makes a statement, either false or true, the Holy Spirit is implicitly represented in it.”
How could this knowledge help keep you centered upon integrity?
How would you define integrity? How do you practice integrity? What would or could block you from being one of, or acting with, integrity?
Everything in the universe belongs to God. Since He is God, Creator, and Sustainer, He has that right and authority. So, why would material things motivate you, or others, to deceive and manipulate situations to your favor over and against God’s standards?
Do you think that Jesus is teaching the banning of oaths? Why, or why not?
Have you ever considered that God is a witness to your promises and dealings? If so, how could this fact make you more honest and forthright?
What can you do to commit yourself to the fact that truth is divinely commanded to us, (Exodus 20:16; Leviticus 19:11; Psalm 5:9; 12:1-4; 15: 1-3; 52:2-5; Jeremiah 9:3-6; Ephesians 4:25; Colossians 3:9; Revelation 22:15) so you will be blameless, not participating in excuses, blame games, skirting around truth, or manipulating justice?
What can a church’s leadership do to make sure that their words and deeds are a reflection of their relationship to Christ? If they did this, how would it change churches? Why is it sad that we have to even ask such a question?
Jesus calls us to an entirely different perspective and outlook of life. He sees the quintessential reason for life, and our being, is relationship. We see our pursuit of material goods and things as what is important in life, but Jesus calls us to see material goods as nothing. Even if we lose everything due to theft, abuse, manipulation, or any wrongful means, our true richness all comes from who we are in Christ and in the relationships we develop. Jesus uses this law, and the leaders' misinterpretation of it, to point them to its true meaning, which is not about vengeance, but about restraint. This passage is also about transitioning our thinking from selfish and materialistic matters to eternal matters and relationships, which are far more valuable and important! The further point of this passage is found in verses 43-44, as love is our motivation, and unselfishness is our goal.
When someone treats you wrong, how do you respond?
Have you ever reacted in kind to mistreatment of yourself, repaying evil with evil? Why, and what were your motivations? What were the results?
What do you think is the proper way to respond to evil?
Why does Jesus call us to an entirely different perspective and outlook of life?
Vengeance is a popular theme in movies. Why do you think that is so?
Does God need to bring you back to any particular standards? If so, what are you going to do about it?
If you lived in the OT times, would this law motivate you to stay away from crime? Why, or why not? Why would someone not be motivated by it?
Why would someone misrepresent it to say it is OK to seek revenge?
Why did God go out of His way to set up cities of refuge to protect people from wrongful vengeance, even though the law is clear on the matter? This was also one of Joshua’s first duties when he went into the promise land (Joshua 20)!
Have you ever considered that this was a law limiting what you could do, and one that even protected people? How is the “eye for an eye and tooth for a tooth” principle usually portrayed?
Why did the law of God and Jesus see vengeance as destructive?
Why does God give responsibility to civil governments, who may not know Him, to seek justice and vengeance on His behalf?
How does clouding our thinking with vengeful mindsets miss what Christ has for us?
How do you feel knowing that God is your vindicator, and, therefore, you do not even need to take revenge?
Our ultimate honor is who we are in Him, not what others may, or may not think about us. How does knowing this give us confidence?
Does personal vengeance have a place in the lives of those who are the children of God? Why, or why not?
What happens when we focus on the abuse and not the bigger picture? How can we learn from this; how can we build a relationship based on this; how can we model Christ, and build character in this?
Freedom is also a choice. How can we seek Christ, and our freedom in His Grace and Mercy? What would that mean in our daily lives, especially in times of stress and confusion?
How can the humiliation we may encounter in the Christian life bring us confidence and hope?
How can this hard teaching from our Lord bring us closer to imitate His nature and character? How can we apply these principles to the situations we face at work, school, in our families, at church, or how people treat us in general?
62. Jesus teaches about loving enemies (Matthew 5:43-48; Luke 6:27-36)
Jesus once again challenges the Pharisees' misunderstanding of the law, and calls for a hard and necessary stand in response to evil, but doing so with goodness and kindness instead of a desire to get even. When our tendency is to respond back in kind, evil for evil, we will only escalate the situation. Thus, when we take this stand with kindness, we may turn an enemy into a friend. In addition, when we do this, we become superior to the enemy in virtue and standing with God. When we respond in the same way as we are harmed, we become as they are, heinous in His sight!
Because we are children of God, we must always measure ourselves on what we say and do on the basis of who we are in Christ. We must mirror His precepts and character, not what others may say or what we desire. In so doing, we become perfect, as being complete in Him.
Do you like to watch movies and TV shows that have a revenge premise to them, such as the Charles Bronson moves? If so, what would that movie be like, and would it be interesting, if the main character held to the precepts of this passage?
Why must we take a hard and necessary stand in responding to evil? How could you and society benefit from doing that?
Do you think the situation escalates when we respond in kind, evil for evil? Why or why not?
Should we, as children of God, always measure what we say and do by who we are in Christ and from His precepts and character, not what others say or what we desire? If you agree, why is that so hard for most Christians? If you do not agree, what is your basis for faith and practice, and for the direction you are taking?
Who are your neighbors (Luke 10:29-37)? How do you get along with your neighbors?
What do you think the motivations were of the teachers of the law who twisted and contorted what the law said to serve their own agenda? Why do some church leaders still do the same today?
Why does Jesus see the removal of responsibility as heinous and evil?
What happens when we to contort God’s Word to fit our agenda?
Why would people say it is OK to hate your enemies? Where would they get this idea?
Did you know that the OT law also taught that kindness was to be shown to one's enemy?
How do you balance the equation that we are to be kind to our neighbors, yet not be doormats, suffering abuse and wrongful actions by them when, and if they occur?
The focus of peace, love, and reconciliation fulfills what role to this passage? What role would it fulfill to our personal life and the conflicts that may come?
What lessons could you learn from those who may be your “enemies”?
How would these lessons improve your maturity, faith, and your relationship to God and others?
What characteristics of love are missing from your relationships and communications with others?
How can you develop and apply those missing love and kindness characteristics to your relationships?
Jesus continually warns us of persecution, yet tells us to love those who hurt us. How do you put this into action in simple misunderstandings as well as life threatening persecutions?
Love is measured by what it costs us--not what we gain from it! How is this so in your life? If it is not, do you think you have ever experienced true, real, and impacting love?
When we overcome evil with good, it totally disorients those who hurt us and throws them into chaos and confusion, until they are either convicted, or they fall deeper into sin and death. How can this knowledge motivate you to allow their own misdeeds to haunt them, and let the perfect Judge deal with them? Would this satisfy your lust for revenge? Why or why not?
How can you use the precepts of this passage to inspire you to seek perfection? How will you seek His standards, not your own, or those of the pious frauds and hypocritical leaders that you may encounter (Philippians 3:10-13)?
63.Teaching about giving to the needy (Matthew 6:1-4)
Jesus’ sermon takes on a different emphasis in Matthew 6:1-18, as He deals with what first-century Judaism considered to be the three most important acts of piety: acts of mercy or kindness (vv.2-4), prayer (vv.5-15), and fasting (vv.16-18).
The Master expected His disciples to express their devotion to Him in similar practices, but He wanted the attitudes of their hearts to be right. He hated few things more than hypocrisy in any of its forms. He is therefore not criticizing these practices but examining motives (5:16).
Classic Judaism states that our motivation for performing good deeds should not be for rewards from others. Rather, we should wait for our reward in Judgment. (Tobit 12:8 [Jewish Text]) Jesus affirms this classic teaching, and challenges the teachers of the Law to uphold it. They, of course, did not, as they proclaimed elaborate displays and speaking to draw attention to themselves when they gave, the opposite of what they thought! What do you think motivated them to do this in contradiction even to their own Law?
Charity was so essential to the Law that some rabbis were teaching that alms giving meant a sure place in Heaven. The Law did not teach this. Why do people tend to fall into this trap?
What did Jesus identify as the great danger to avoid in charitable giving?
What happens when someone practices charitable deeds before men? (v.1)
Hypocrites: This literally means acting, or an actor in a play. It is one who claims to have a relationship with God, and to be following His precepts, while actually doing the opposite. The ancient actors did this by holding up masks to proclaim their part in the play, and their expression of feelings, while their real feelings were hidden. Do we see this in church today? In what way?
The hypocrites in the Church seek themselves and their agenda, under the facade of being a Christian. Sometimes their evil is so ingrained in them that they do not even realize they are hypocrites, as Jesus points out in chapter 23. How is it possible that people can fool themselves? Can you give a biblical example of this?
Citing religious fanfare, Jesus notes that doing charitable deeds before men is a self-glorifying ________________(v.2)
Trumpet. Jesus is using ‘hyperbolic speech’, which is exaggeration, to make His point. Obviously, people did not blow trumpets when they gave, but they did make it known when and how much they gave. Also, the charity box at the temple was in the shape of a trumpet! Jesus is the Master Teacher, and He often uses humor and word plays to get His point across that are clear in the Greek, but not in English.
In what sense do hypocritical givers receive all their reward at the time of their donations?
The Lord is vague in the Sermon about what the Father’s reward will be (5:12; 6:4, 6, 18). His intent is clear, however. Only that which is motivated to glorify God rather than self will be rewarded by God. Once again, we see that God is more concerned with why we do things than what we do.
What is to be the Christian’s heart attitude when doing acts of mercy or kindness? (vv.3-4)
What do you think are the immediate and ultimate rewards of properly motivated giving?
As any fund-raiser knows, one of the biggest motivations for people who give large gifts is the prestige that results. Jesus questioned that spirit of giving. How does giving anonymously to charitable causes bypass the spiritual dangers Jesus condemned in Matthew 6:1-2?
What do you need to do to maintain humility when your giving is known about by others who commend you for it?
The Romans did not believe in charity. They felt that people should work for their food and wages. If a person was poor, it was because they were too lazy to work, or their family forsook their responsibility. However, wealthy Greeks and Romans would build public works projects such as gyms, bathrooms, and housing to gain popularity and support for their aspirations--personally and/or politically. As you can see, human motivations and thinking have not changed in thousands of years! Can you think of some examples of wealthy people who have financed huge projects for public acclaim?
We are not to exhibit righteousness, just to be seen by others! This does not mean to avoid all or any practice of righteousness (Matthew 5:16). Rather, it is to avoid doing them JUST to be recognized and self-glorified. We cannot secure the praise for God when we are trying to secure praise for ourselves! If we try, who are we really worshipping?
What we do in secret will be made known (Ecclesiastes 12:14; 2 Corinthians 5:10) to God, and even to others, if God so desires. How should this truth affect us?
Do not be like the hypocrites! Prayer is the two-way communication between we, the created beings, and God, our Creator! We are made for relationships, and communication is essential for effective relational growth. In what way does hypocrisy curtail true communication?
For us as Christians, prayer is one of the main ways we can grow in faith and maturity in our Christian formation, alongside getting into the Word with personal study and devotions, solid group Bible study, teaching, and the various disciplines of the faith. What happens to that process when we are more concerned with humans than God?
The great wonderful fallout from our redemption is the ability for us to pray real and effective prayers to which God actually hears and responds! Can you give some examples of answered prayer?
How does knowing that God hears and responds to your prayers make you feel?
God speaks to us through His Word and the Holy Spirit teaches and convicts us through the Word. Thus, through our prayers we can be taught, grow, and be convicted, so we can apply His precepts to our lives that will affect those around us. Prayers are not just selfish wish lists to get God to cater to our needs and whims; rather, their true purpose is for us to be shaped by what He has revealed, to grow in character, perseverance, and maturity. In what way does knowing this change the way we pray?
Jesus is not condemning public praying; rather, He is condemning self-gratifying prayers with improper motivations that seek approval from people and are unconcerned about God (Matthew 11:25; John 11:41; Acts 27:35). Can you think of some public prayers in the Bible that brought God glory?
Prayer is not to be a liturgical exercise of rhetoric! Are we sometimes guilty of rhetoric or oratory in prayer? Can you give some examples? What does being overly concerned with the level of language reveal?
Do not use vain repetitions refers to rhetoric speech, having no value or meaning, saying something to catch the attention of others, or just having to say something so we are heard. This is empty and vacant in the call of our Lord! What would we think of someone who tried to communicate with US that way?
This is not to say we should not persist in asking God for something, as long it is Biblical (Luke 18: 1-8), but we are not to be wrapped up in our words, how we say it, trying to fit a pattern (other than Jesus’ pattern), or impress someone. What biblical support can you think of for persistence in prayer?
This is not condemning repetition, but vain words, which are insincere and meaningless repetition. God is sovereign; you do not need to use superfluous words! God is not swayed the by quantity of our words, but by the quality of our heart, offered with a merciful spirit (Matthew 18:21-23; James 2:13). What bearing does this have on the gift of tongues?
To get what they wanted, the Greeks used ‘overload prayers’ to tire out their gods with many prayers and formulas that were repeated over and over again. It seems some of the Jewish leaders gave this a try too! What does this reveal about their concept of God?
Our private prayers are the ones that shape us; our public prayers are the ones that are to help others be shaped, and be in spiritual agreement to express praise, worship, seek forgiveness from God and each other, confess sins, make petitions for each other, and teach one another (Luke 11:2-4; Acts 1:14; 4:24). How then should we pray publicly? What should we be careful of? Of what should we be care-less?
Did you have a favorite prayer as a child that you may have recited at bedtime? If so, did that prayer give you comfort and understanding about God?
With what emphasis is Jesus is calling us to seek Him? Why would that emphasis be important?
Have you ever considered that the Lord’s Prayer is a systematic, how to do it checklist, a model on how to pray, and not a prayer in and of itself? If so, why do so many Christians and churches use this as a mantra, a repeated prayer? In addition, is using it this way a direct contradiction to what Jesus is saying about prayer? If so, why do we do it?
How is reciting this passage as a prayer like giving a recipe to your dinner guests and forgoing the preparing of the meal?
Father is the Aramaic word for daddy or papa a very dear, intimate, personal honor to the head of the family. This is also a name of reverence and devotion, and not to be taken as we say daddy. It is not a cheap saying, or a word to put God in just a friend category. We are adopted in His family, and He loves us ever so deeply. Yet, He is still God and sovereign! Why do you think Jesus chose to use this word?
Hallowed be Your Name refers to the holiness, mightiness, omnipresence (He is everywhere transcending time and space), and omnipotence (All powerful) of God. He is the holy Judge, Creator, Savior, and Sustainer of all things. So, we are commanded to keep His name holy, as in the first two commandments. How do we balance “Father” with “hallowed”?
In Jewish teaching, right living declares God’s name as hallowed (Isaiah 5:16; 29:23; Ezekiel 36:23; 38:23; 39:7, 27; Zechariah 14:9)! What do these passages teach are elements of right living?
If they lived profanely, it made God’s name profane amongst the nations (Exodus 20:7; Jeremiah 34:16; 44:25-26; Ezekiel 13:19; 20:14; Amos 2:7)! Can we also make God’s name profane in our community? How?
Your will be done, further expounds that we are to seek His character and sovereignty in all things, and not choose what we want over what He has called us to do! His needs must precede our needs, because He wants what is best for us! What are God’s “needs”?
Give us our daily bread is not just a request for food, but also a seeking of what is necessary for now and for the future (Proverbs 30:8; Matthew 6:19-34). What are examples of our “daily bread?”
Forgive, we have to realize that we are all sinners, we still have sin and we still do sin. Thus, we always need to not only be aware of it, but also repent from it and seek forgiveness. This is a must. It is a daily act. We must seek forgiveness, not just when we think about it or are convicted. We must be willing to seek forgiveness daily from God and others! How do we build this constant seeking of forgiveness into our lives?
If you are not able or willing to forgive others, God will be unable to forgive you! Why is that?
Do not lead us into temptation means help us not sin when we are tested or going through trials, and help us through them (Psalm 141:3-4). Trials are a primary means for growth and maturity. It does not mean to keep us from them altogether. What would happen if we never experienced hardship or trials?
What is the main objective in fasting? (Isaiah 58:3-11)
Is there more to fasting than simply doing without food and/or water? (Daniel 9:3)
What was Daniel’s purpose in fasting?
Should fasting be done privately or publicly? (Matthew 6:16-18 cp Luke 18:9-14)
What should we fast about?
James 4:7-10 cp Psalm 35:13
Daniel 6:18-19
Psalm 35:13
Esther 4:16
Matthew 4:1-2
Luke 2:36-37 cp Acts 13:2
How long should we fast? There is only one prescribed fast that comes with a time limit – the 24 hour fast of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 23:26-32). Examine the following passages. Determine the length of time and the reason in order to be able to draw some guiding principles.
67. Teaching about money and possessions (Matthew 6:19-24)
In this passage, Jesus used a series of contrasts to illustrate the importance of enduring values. It’s easy to pick out the enduring item in each contrasted set, but ironically the temporary choice is the one people usually make. These teachings are practical and necessary for everyone who wants to follow Jesus.
Why is treasure in heaven more valuable than treasure on earth?
What do you think it means to have a good “eye” that fills your life with light and a bad “eye” that fills your life with darkness?
Mammon comes from the Greek mamonas, which is a transliteratin of the Aramaic noun mammon, meaning wealth or property. It may be derived from a Hebrew word for “treasure” (Genesis 43:23), and it is clearly able to control one’s will (Matthew 6:24)
Behind the choice of a life treasure and a life vision is the more fundamental choice of a life master. Why are the options of serving God or mammon (material wealth) mutually exclusive?
How will the choices we make about treasure, vision, and master affect whether we invest our life worrying about necessities or seeking God’s kingdom (vv.33-34)?
Read Matthew 6:19-24 and note the following. Committed discipleship requires what? (vv. 19-20; Luke 12:16-21)
Where we invest our greatest energy is an expression of what?
If one’s eye is good, e.g. if a disciple’s focus is Godward and not wealthward, what will that Christian’s life be like?
If one’s eye is bad, e.g., focus is wealthward rather than Godward, what will that Christian’s life be like?
Selfish materialism can never direct us toward meaningful discipleship. Jesus concludes by stating that partially committed, or part-time discipleship is impossible (v.24; Matthew 10:34-39; 16:24-26). Why?
If the disciple is not to be preoccupied with material gain, how will basic needs be met? This is Jesus’ concern in Matthew 6:25-34, especially as it relates to Kingdom priorities (v.33). It is built around the exhortation not to worry.
“Sufficient for the day is its own trouble,” is a proverbial saying about the absurdity of being anxious about the future when we live in today. We disciples have a heavenly Father who knows of our ongoing needs and who will supply them. The passage does not mean, however, that food, drink, clothing, and other such necessities will come to us automatically without work or foresight. It addresses only the problem of anxiety about these things.
Why should disciples not worry about basic subsistence (v.25)?
What are you inclined to worry about with regard to the necessities of your life?
How is your commitment to accepting the reign of God in your life and advancing His reign into other lives hampered by your anxiety about daily needs?
What must be realized to prevent inordinate anxiety about physical needs (vv.26, 32)?
Worry, merimnao, comes from merizo, ‘to divide into parts.’ The word suggests a distraction, a preoccupation with things causing anxiety, stress, and pressure. It has overtones of fearful anxiety, often causing sleeplessness.
What is the disciple’s top priority? What result from adopting that priority? (v.33)
God has not only the present under control but the ___________as well (v.34)?
Are you sensitive to the fact that your pursuits reflect your heart’s desires? Do you have affections that are misplaced? Do you have fear or anxiety about daily life? Are you perhaps struggling with believing that God will care for you? Do you seek security in possessions more than in God? Honestly and openly before God’s Word, assess yourself in light of these questions and our exploration of Matthew 6:19-34.
Where we invest our greatest energy is an expression of what?
How did Jesus clarify His command not to worry about the necessities of life by each of these illustrations?
The birds of the air (vv.26-27)
The lilies of the field (vv. 28-30)
The ignorant pagans (vv. 31-32)
God feeds the birds in your backyard (Matthew 6:26), but if you watch them you’ll notice that they spend a lot of time and energy gathering up the grub He provides. However, you won’t find a neurotic in the flock. By what means does God provide the necessities of life for you?
What did Jesus present as the enduring alternative to worrying about the fleeting necessities of life? (Matthew 6:33-34)
How will the choices we make about treasure, vision, and master (vv. 19-24) affect whether we invest our life worrying about necessities or seeking God’s kingdom?
What’s the most important practical step you could take to focus more intently on the kingdom and righteousness of God?
69. Teaching about condemnation (Matthew 7:1-6; Luke 6:37-42)
Jesus never wanted us to become harsh and bitterly judgmental. His loving spirit exudes throughout the Beatitudes and He encourages us to temper our discernment with mercy.
Is there such a thing as a perfect church?
To whom is Jesus speaking? Why is it important to know to whom He is speaking?
Jesus states that we should be ready to abide by the same standards by which we judge others. What do you call it when someone uses different standards for other people than they use for themselves?
What does Jesus’ reference to the speck and the log tell us about spiritual problems?
What does it tell us about the prerequisites for spiritual evaluation?
What factors should be taken into account when evaluation of a person’s behavior is necessary?
Some mistakenly take this to mean never to exercise discernment. However, the word used here is "krino" and it makes us understand that we are not to be hypercritical of others, making snap judgment, judging actions without knowing the motivation, becoming a "Sin Sniffer" or "Gospel Gestapo." Compare the idea of never being able to judge with the following passages:
Matthew 7:6, 15
Matthew 18
John 7
1 Corinthians 2:15
Galatians 1:8
If vv. 1-5 warn against the dangers of judgmentalism, verse 6 warns against the opposite error – lack of discernment. Why do we need to exercise discerning judgment?
In what way is discernment a necessary part of not judging?
The church is called the "body of Christ" in Scripture. What happens when your physical body is not well? How much more if the spiritual body of the church is not well?
When is it appropriate to confront someone in the church as part of the body? When is it appropriate to judge?
Would you say that the following statements reflect a pretty harsh judgment? How does recognizing each of the following in ourselves and other people benefit us?
Stop judging
Stop criticizing
Blind person
Student/teacher
Log in your eye
Hypocrite
Deal with the speck
Unholy people
Swine
They trample, turn, and attack
In what way is discernment a necessary part of being a good steward?
What pearls have we been given that should not be wasted on “swine” or unholy people who will reject your gift, trample it and attack you?
Read and reflect on Proverbs 18:13
Righteous judgment (as opposed to “krino” judgment) allows us to be a helper to our brother (v5). How does the right use of judgment help us restore people rather than destroy them?
Read and reflect on the following two passages:
Psalm 51:10-13
Galatians 6:1
Note the difference in how Jesus spoke from the end of John 2:23-25 and Nicodemus in John 3.
Note the differences between how Jesus spoke before Pontius Pilate and Herod.
Ask yourself how forgiving are you? How loving are you? How discerning are you?
Is there anyone in your life that you have judged inappropriately? Pray about it and ask for forgiveness where appropriate.
If a person is always seeking to “get one over” on others what may he expect from others?
What does the attitude of primarily seeking one’s own good do to one psychologically?
Why do you think Jesus inserted this phrase between a passage on prayer and another on entering the kingdom?
Read Luke 6:36-38 and Romans 2:1-5. Is there a degree to which the Golden Rule relates to salvation? Why?
The Golden Rule can be found in nearly every culture. Why do you think that is?
Jesus said “do for others what you would like them to do for you.” Hillel and Confucius both rendered it negatively, essentially stating “What you do not wish done to you, do not do to others.” Is there a difference?
Examine the following two passages and determine their bearing on the Golden Rule.
Leviticus 19:18
Matthew 22:34-40.
Paul summarized the Christian way of life in 1 Corinthians 13:13. In what way does the Golden Rule epitomize the virtues we find in 1 Corinthians 13?
What is the scope of this rule?
According to Matthew 7:11, what is reflected when we do good deeds?
As we obey this command, what are we fulfilling? How?
Paraphrase the Golden Rule as it applies to:
Your job
School
Your family
Fellow Christians
The unbelieving
Is the Golden Rule advice on how to get what you want like “How to win friends and influence enemies”?
In what way is the Golden Rule related to Matthew 19:16-19?
Jesus tells us that only a few will ever find the way to life. What does this tell us about our tendency to be impressed with numbers and results?
At times in history, the Christian movement has appeared to hang by a thread. One person, one small band of people. St. Patrick in Ireland or Adoniram Judson in Burma. What does this teach us about:
Christianity
Our personal walk
Evangelism
Jesus said the narrow gate must be found. What does His use of the word “find” presuppose?
Jesus seems to be saying that eternal life is difficult to acquire. In other passages, He teaches that the Way demands the sacrifice of self-denial and discipleship. How does this influence our modern concept of grace?
Jesus is not accentuating entry but stressing the choice of the narrow gate. Why is choosing to make Jesus our Lord and Master difficult?
The Master said that the broad highway leads to destruction. Examine this term in the following passages:
Acts 8:20
Romans 9:22
Philippians 1:28
Philippians 3:19
2 Thessalonians 2:3
1 Timothy 6:9
2 Peter 2:1
2 Peter 3:7, 16
Revelation 17:8, 11
We are commanded to enter the narrow gate or face destruction. What about our families, our friends, our coworkers? What is their destiny without Christ? What should our reaction be with this understanding?
Why do you think that Jesus felt this idea follows logically out of the previous discussion of the Golden Rule?
Why would someone want to know the answer to the question found in Luke 13:23?
In what ways is the door to the Kingdom narrow?
For what kind of people is the door to the Kingdom especially narrow?
What different ways do people make an effort to enter the narrow door? (Luke 13:34)
What was Jesus trying to say to us through his parable about the feast? (Luke 13:25-27)
Why didn't the people in the parable go through the narrow door while there was still time?
How does this parable relate to the question in verse 23?
What does Jesus mean by saying that he doesn’t know the people who ate and drank with Him and whom He had taught?
How can we be sure that Jesus will know us in the last day?
All the patriarchs had their weaknesses and sins just like us. What enabled them to enter the narrow door to the Kingdom?
Who are the people from all over the world who will come to the feast of the Kingdom?
Compare and contrast John 10:9 to this parable of the narrow door.
Why is the door in this parable narrow and difficult to enter while the other seems to be open to anyone? Is this a contradiction?
73. Parable of wolves in sheep's clothing and the tree and its fruit (Matthew 7:15-20; Luke 6:43-45)
Christian disciples who claim to speak in the name of God are called prophets. Read the following passages and jot down a couple thoughts on what it means to be a prophet. a) Matthew 7:15; b) Matthew 10:41; c) Matthew 23:34
Sometimes people mistake God’s patience and mercy for leniency – for softness on sin. They teach, whether implicitly or explicitly, that everyone will end up in heaven or that all Christians will please God. How does Jesus’ first command in this passage (Matthew 7:13-14) disabuse us of this fallacy?
In what way do the words “only a few…” and “find it…” help our understanding of this error in judgment?
In today’s passage, Jesus gives us another Kingdom commandment. He tells us to “watch out for” false prophets. What is He telling us to do? What do those words mean?
Jesus describes them as wearing “sheep’s clothing”. What does that mean? What are we looking for?
What standard did Jesus tell us to use to be able to penetrate their disguise?
Jesus didn't say that we should beware of non-fruit producing trees just as He didn’t tell us to beware of wolves. He assumes that the wolves will look like sheep and that the trees will produce some kind of fruit. The difference is that we need to recognize the fake sheep and the bad trees. How do we recognize a bad tree according to this passage?
What is Mark’s contribution to this conversation? (Mark 7:21-23)
So what kind of fruit are we looking for?
Examine Acts 20:29-31. How does the apostle Paul help us identify these false prophets?
How important was it to Paul? How do you know?
In what ways does the concept or philosophy of accountability help protect a church or an individual from these ravaging wolves?
What do we learn about this process from the following two passages? a) 1 Timothy 3:1ff; b) 1 Timothy 5:19-21
Are false prophets, wolves in sheep’s clothing or bad trees, ALWAYS so characterized? What does this teach us?
If you were to look for false prophets in the context of Jesus' ministry, who would they be? (Matthew 23). What do we learn about false prophets from Matthew 23:3?
Jude also has much to teach us on the issue of false prophets. In Jude 3, what does he mean by "contend for the faith"? Who are we contending against?
In v. 4 upon what theological basis do you suppose that they would try to turn to grace of God into a license for immorality? (cp Rom 6:15ff)
How is this related to denying the Lordship of Christ?
What does “licentious” mean?
After carefully examining Jude 5 and onward, list the characteristics that describe these people.
Why would these type of people even want to associate with Christians? (v.12)
Why would they be accepted in the Christian community?
What should be done with such people?
What verses in the Bible would you approach them with? (1John 3:10)
What different types of potential converts do each of these represent? (vv. 21-23)
What is our personal responsibility in this matter? (Hosea 4:6)
According to Matthew 7:15-23, false prophets and false disciples look like the people of God, but what are they truly?
How are we to detect them? (Matthew 7:16-18, 20)
What will be the fate of those who fail to repent? (Matthew 7:19)
These folks make some pretty impressive claims. List them. (Matthew 7:22)
What is Jesus’ response? (Matthew 7:23)
Obviously, though they exhibit amazing ministry abilities, something pretty basic is missing. What is it? (Matthew 7:21)
If they are not believers, how are they performing these incredible feats? What power are they using?
What did Jesus tell us would inevitably happen to those who try this? (Matthew 12:24-27; Mark 3:22-26; Luke 11:14-19)
We are to first seek God’s kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33). If these folks were not seeking Yahweh’s kingdom, what were they seeking?
What is the difference between judging others and being properly discerning? (Matthew 7:1-6) In what ways should we be able to put that difference to use in dealing with these non-kingdom-seeking “miracle workers”?
What are the characteristics of true disciples? (John 14:15; Galatians 5:22-23; 1 John 3:10, 16-18)
75. Parable of the wise and foolish builders (Matthew 7:24-29; Luke 6:46-49)
In what ways are the wise and foolish builders similar?
In what ways do they differ?
What is the “foundation”? What would be the “rock” and what would be the “sand”?
What are the storms? Is there any one clear answer?
Can you summarize this passage in one short sentence?
Why is putting Jesus’ teachings into practice so important? What are the benefits doing so? What are the consequences if we don’t?
Jesus discusses hearing, knowing, and doing. Is any one of these three disposable?
Is any one of them more important than the others? Why or why not?
Is Jesus saying that we are saved by what we do?
Only two types of people are mentioned. Is this a false dichotomy created for the sake of the story or is it really true to life? Is there a third type of person, like say a person who’s never heard?
