Matthew 5: Empowering Children and Teens Today!

Matthew 5 

     Chapter 5 begins what is known as the Sermon on the Mount.  Jesus went up on a mountain, and after his disciples came to him he began teaching.  In Ch. 7 verse 27, at the end of the Sermon on the Mount, the people were amazed at His teaching.  They said He taught them as if they were important people, having authority. 

     The teachings include what are called the “Beatitudes”, which focused on love and humility.  The last verse of chapter 5 is the considered to be the focal point of the teachings:  "Therefore, you shall be perfect, just as you Father in heaven is perfect.” 

When reading this it is important to remember, the people were familiar with the law of the Old Covenant.  The New Covenant did not yet exist.  Jesus had not yet redeemed them from the curse of the law by paying the price for the people’s sin. 

     There seems to be much controversy over what verse 48 means.  If we look at this verse through New Covenant eyes, we know that we have been transformed in Christ… into a new creature in our spirit man.  And as we grow in Christ, we become more and more in the image of God. 

     At our new birth (Romans 10:9, 2 Cor. 5:17), we are made new, a perfect spirit man.  However, our soul and our body have not.  Transformation of the soul comes with the revelation of God’s Word as we renew our minds to who He is and who we are in Him.

     

Imagine an acorn (a seed), planted into the ground.  The seed contains everything that is needed to produce a perfect oak tree.  It is complete.  Once planted, it has the power to grow into all it was meant to be, a beautiful, stately oak tree. The transformation into a perfect oak tree from the seed takes place with proper watering, sunlight, and nutrients from the soil.

     

All we are in Christ is planted in us as a new spirit man when we receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior.  As we become more and more in the image of God, our minds are transformed (Romans 12:2) and we begin to live out who we are:   “just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)

     Matthew 5 is packed with teachings from Jesus.  As you read today, notice; 
     Who are the blessed?  
     How are believers as salt and light? 
     How did Christ fulfill the law?  
     Does sin begin in the heart? 
     How can we go the extra mile?  
     What does it mean to love your enemies?