The Beatitudes Part 2
The discourse continues in the Beatitudes, as Jesus teaches us the basics of life and faith. He reminds us of our value to God and to others by saying, "You are the salt of the earth." He urges us to live as God's children as we reveal God to others as we live our lives:
Matthew 5:13-20 NIV
Salt and Light
13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Next, Jesus reveals more about who He is and why He has come to us. He didn't come to erase the foundations of faith but to fulfill and enhance them. He also reminds us to have the proper mindset concerning righteousness - it is not merely external but rooted in faith and humility:
The Fulfillment of the Law
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. 19 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.
It is apparent that God's kingdom is one of righteousness. God cares about every statute and command and how we relate to them. He cares about us and our hearts toward Him.
Q: As you read these passages, what stands out to you? What can you learn from them?
Q: How can we align our thinking to God's when it comes to our own value and the value of His kingdom ways?
Prayer: Lord, we thank You that You have given us everything we need for a victorious life. We need your grace to see, understand, and follow You as we live life. Help us navigate life with You and reap the benefits of righteousness in your kingdom. Amen.
Matthew 5:13-20 NIV
Salt and Light
13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Next, Jesus reveals more about who He is and why He has come to us. He didn't come to erase the foundations of faith but to fulfill and enhance them. He also reminds us to have the proper mindset concerning righteousness - it is not merely external but rooted in faith and humility:
The Fulfillment of the Law
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. 19 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.
It is apparent that God's kingdom is one of righteousness. God cares about every statute and command and how we relate to them. He cares about us and our hearts toward Him.
Q: As you read these passages, what stands out to you? What can you learn from them?
Q: How can we align our thinking to God's when it comes to our own value and the value of His kingdom ways?
Prayer: Lord, we thank You that You have given us everything we need for a victorious life. We need your grace to see, understand, and follow You as we live life. Help us navigate life with You and reap the benefits of righteousness in your kingdom. Amen.