The Sermon on the MountSample

Introduction

Chapters 5-7 of the Gospel of Matthew are often referred to as the Sermon on the Mount. It is a summary of what Jesus taught. Despite the fact that the other Gospels have some similar passages in different contexts (like Luke 6:17-49), it is likely that Jesus actually gave this discourse on only one occasion but then repeated the same teachings several times on other occasions as well.

Even those who profess other religions or no religion can appreciate the high ethical standard expressed in the Sermon on the Mount. Mahatma Gandhi used this passage along with other sacred writings during evening meditations and prayers with his closest followers. Many say that if everyone lived this way, the world would be a better place.

It is however important to understand that everything Jesus said in this sermon was addressed to his disciples. This is not intended to be a recommended way of life or a set of requirements for entering the kingdom, but rather instructions for those who have already entered it. It is impossible to live by these principles without God's help. However, Jesus' teaching was addressed to the disciples in the presence of the crowd. There was no secret; the aim was that others would become disciples, drawn to Jesus' teaching and authority, and the consistency of His disciples' behavior.

There are five great discourses from Jesus in Matthew, just as there are five discourses from Moses in Deuteronomy. Moses received the law on the mountain; Jesus teaches the new law on the mountain. Therefore, Jesus presents himself as the new Moses who fulfills the law and relaunches it in a new way. It is not an outward set of rules and regulations to be followed to the letter, but rather a set of principles, ideals, and motivations for behavior, similar to the law that Jeremiah said would be written in hearts (Jeremiah 31:31-34).

According to Matthew Henry, the great Bible commentator, the purpose of the Sermon on the Mount "is not to fill our heads with notions, but to guide and regulate our conduct". As we read and study the Sermon on the Mount together, let's keep this in mind.