Matthew 5: 38-48

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This text uses the same formula, earlier in chapter 5: “You have heard that is has been said. . . But I say to you. . . “ Rather than condemn us, the Sermon on the Mount seeks to bring us into the light of God’s Kingdom.

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A.

vv. 38-42 On Revenge Conventional Wisdom: ”You have heard it said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” *from Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; and Deuteronomy 19:21 B. Jesus’ Emphasis: “But I say to you: *Do not resist an evil-doer *If anyone strikes you on the cheek, turn the other also *If anyone wants your coat, give him you cloak as well.

*if anyone forces you to go a mile, go two *give to anyone who begs from you.

C. Interior Point: God alone will avenge and is the source of our provision. Every human being bears he image of God, as we should treat them as such.

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vv. 43-48 On Love Conventional Wisdom: “You have heard hat it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.” Lev. 19:18 Jesus’ Emphasis: “But I say to you, “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

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Further Teaching: 1.

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Why should we pray for our enemies?

v. 45a “so that you may be children of your Father in heaven;” God is our example v. 45b “for He [God] makes his sun rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” vv. 46-47 “For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers and sisters what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same?

4. Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” A.

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Greek word for perfection means complete/whole John Wesley “perfect in love” Perfection, then, is a journey requiring constant attention and awareness.

God’s grace will bear us up, but the Law of Grace requires you to TRY or put forth effort—AND GOD WILL MEET YOU THERE!