Matthew 5–7
When Jesus is King…
The Sermon on the Mount is one of the most famous and influential teachings of Jesus Christ, and it is recorded in the Gospel of Matthew in chapters 5-7. In this sermon,
Jesus teaches his followers about the Kingdom of God and how they should live their lives as citizens of that Kingdom.
Reading: Matt. 5:1-10
1. Jesus is King…
Jesus begins the sermon with the Beatitudes, a series of statements that describe the character and attitudes of those who are blessed by God.
He teaches that the Kingdom of God is not just a physical place, but a state of being where the poor in spirit, the meek, the merciful, and the peacemakers are honored and rewarded.
1. Matthew 6:33 - "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
2. Luke 17:20-21 - "Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, 'The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, nor will people say, 'Here it is,' or 'There it is,' because the kingdom of God is in your midst.'"
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2. Jesus is King…Jesus fulfilled all the requirements to be Israel’s king.
Jesus fulfilled all the requirements to be Israel’s king.
[Christ did not lack even one qualification to rule Israel.]
Matthew emphasizes the kingdom more than any other theme.
(What are the implications for you and me regarding Jesus being king?)
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches that the Kingdom of God is not just a physical place, but a state of being where God's will is done on earth as it is in heaven. He teaches that those who are poor in spirit, meek, merciful, and pure in heart are blessed and will inherit the Kingdom of God. He also teaches that the Kingdom of God is available to all who seek it, regardless of their social status or background.
1. Mark 1:14-15 - "After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. 'The time has come,' he said. 'The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!'"
2. Luke 4:43 - "But he [Jesus] said, 'I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of God to the other towns also, because that is why I was sent.'"
3. Jesus is King…the Kingdom of God is a central theme in Jesus' teachings
Jesus' teachings on the Kingdom of God challenge his followers to live in a way that reflects the values and priorities of the Kingdom. This includes a focus on inner righteousness, such as humility, selflessness, and love for others. It also involves trusting in God's provision, seeking first his Kingdom and his righteousness, and valuing relationships over material possessions.
Overall, the Kingdom of God is a central theme in Jesus' teachings, and it is a call to live a life of radical discipleship that reflects the values and priorities of God's Kingdom.
1. Matthew 5:3 - "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
2. Mark 10:14-15 - "When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.'"
Read more:
- Sermon On Thanksgiving: His Gates with ThanksgivingEph. 5:20
- Sermon About Love: "What's So Great about Love?"1 Corinthians 13:8-13
- Sermon About Faith: Walk by FaithEph. 2:10
- Evangelism Sermons Series: Topics, Outline
Conclusion
The Kingdom of God is a central theme in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who often spoke of it in his parables and teachings.
Refers to the reign or rule of God over all things, including the hearts and minds of people. It is a spiritual kingdom that exists within the hearts of believers and is characterized by love, peace, justice, and righteousness. It is a kingdom that is not of this world but is instead a heavenly kingdom that will come to full fruition in the future.
