‏ Matthew 5

The Sermon on the Mount

This passage introduces one of the most famous teachings of Jesus, known as the Sermon on the Mount. Here, Jesus speaks as the greatest teacher and prophet of God’s people, bringing light to the world. He had already shown his divine power by healing many people in Galilee, and now he prepares to teach them what it really means to repent and live for God. This sermon explains how people should change their lives and hearts to enter God’s kingdom. While the message was especially for his disciples, it was also heard by a large crowd who gathered to listen.

v. 1: Jesus, the true Teacher and Light of the world, went up on a mountain in Galilee to teach. Unlike the religious leaders who had comfortable places to speak, Jesus used a simple mountain as his pulpit. This shows that under the gospel, any place can be a place of worship and learning, not just special buildings. Just as God gave the law to Moses on a mountain, Jesus now teaches the true meaning of God’s law from a mountain, but with more grace and kindness (2 Corinthians 3:7; Hebrews 12:18 ^a). This mountain became a place where people could draw near to God, as the prophets had said (Deuteronomy 33:19; Isaiah 2:2-3 ^b; Micah 4:1-2 ^c).

v. 2: The main audience for this sermon was Jesus’ disciples, those who came to him to learn and follow. They wanted to know the truth and were ready to teach others. However, many people from the crowd also listened. Unlike the law given at Mount Sinai, where people were kept at a distance (Exodus 19:12 ^d), now everyone could come close and hear Jesus. Even though Jesus spoke mainly to his disciples, he also cared about the whole crowd. Ministers can learn from this example: it is good to preach God’s word to as many people as possible, hoping some will truly listen and follow (Mark 3:13; Luke 6:13; Matthew 7:28 ^e).

The Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes

This section opens Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount with a series of blessings, called the Beatitudes, which describe the character of those who belong to the kingdom of heaven and the true nature of happiness in God’s sight. Jesus reverses the world's expectations, showing that true blessedness is not about wealth, power, or social status, but about humility, righteousness, mercy, and devotion to God. Each blessing shows a spiritual quality and the reward that comes with it, both now and in the future.

v. 3: Jesus begins by saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:3 ^f). To be "poor in spirit" means to recognize our spiritual need and emptiness without God. It is not the same as being weak or cowardly, but having a humble attitude, seeing ourselves as we really are—needy and dependent on God's grace. The poor in spirit do not depend on themselves or their own goodness. They know they need God’s forgiveness and help. Jesus promises that such people are truly blessed and will have a place in God’s kingdom.

The way Jesus began his sermon was special and serious. He sat down, as teachers or judges did, showing that he spoke with authority. The Bible says, He shall sit as a refiner (Malachi 3:3 ^g) and as one who judges rightly (Psalm 9:4 ^h). The phrase He opened his mouth shows that Jesus was about to say something very important, much like the prophets who spoke for God (Job 3:1; Ezekiel 3:27 ⁱ; Proverbs 8:1-2,6 ^j). Jesus taught with authority and wisdom, fulfilling the promise that God’s people would be taught by the Lord himself (Isaiah 54:13; Isaiah 50:4 ^k; Isaiah 61:1 ^l). His teaching was not just for information, but to change hearts and lives, leading people to true godliness (Hebrews 9:10; Titus 1:1 ^m).

v. 4: Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted (Matthew 5:4 ⁿ). Jesus says that those who mourn—especially over their own sins and the brokenness in the world—are blessed. God sees their sorrow and will comfort them, both in this life and especially in the life to come. This mourning is not about being sad all the time, but about having a serious heart that is sorry for sin and cares about others’ suffering. God promises comfort to such people.

v. 5: Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5 ^o). Meekness is not weakness, but gentleness and self-control. The meek are patient, not easily angered, and do not seek revenge. Jesus says these people will inherit the earth—meaning God will reward them, and they will share in his blessings, both now and in the world to come.

v. 6: Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled (Matthew 5:6 ^p). Those who long for righteousness—who want to do what is right and to have a right relationship with God—are blessed. Their desire will be satisfied. God promises to fill those who truly seek him and his ways, not just with good things, but with himself.

v. 7: Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy (Matthew 5:7 ^q). Those who show compassion and forgiveness to others will receive mercy from God. Jesus teaches that being merciful is not only good for others, but it is also the way to receive God’s mercy ourselves.

v. 8: Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God (Matthew 5:8 ^r). Purity of heart means being sincere and having a single-minded devotion to God—not just outwardly, but inside. Jesus promises that those who are pure in heart will see God, both by faith here and face to face in eternity.

v. 9: Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God (Matthew 5:9 ^s). Peacemakers are those who work to bring peace between people and to end quarrels. They try to live at peace with everyone and help others do the same. God calls such people his children, because they are doing what their heavenly Father does.

v. 10–12: Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:10 ^t). Jesus says that even those who suffer for doing right are blessed, because they share in God’s kingdom. He encourages his disciples not to be discouraged by insults, lies, or persecution, but to rejoice, because their reward in heaven will be great. Others before them, like the prophets, also suffered for following God (Matthew 5:11-12 ^u).

In summary, Jesus teaches that true happiness and blessing come from a humble, repentant, merciful, and pure heart that seeks God and his ways, even when it brings difficulty. Those who have these qualities are truly happy in God’s eyes, and they receive his promises—now and forever.

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The Sermon on the Mount

In this part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus explains to his disciples what he wants them to be in the world. He uses two simple but powerful pictures: salt and light. Jesus had already called them to be “fishers of men.” Now, he shows them that they are meant to influence and bless the whole world, even if they face struggles or feel small and weak. Their purpose is to bring change to the world through the gospel and their lives.

v. 13: Jesus says, You are the salt of the earth. This means his followers are very important, just like salt is important for food. Salt adds flavor, keeps things from going bad, and makes food good to eat. In the same way, Christians are meant to bring goodness and truth to the world. The gospel is like salt because it is powerful and changes people’s hearts (Hebrews 4:12; Acts 2:37 ^v). If Christians are full of God’s grace, their words and actions will help others (Colossians 4:6; Mark 9:50 ^w). Jesus’ followers are sent out into the world, not to stay together in one place, but to be like grains of salt spread everywhere, making the world better.

v. 14: Jesus also says, You are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14 ^x). Light helps people see and find their way. Christians are called to shine God’s truth and love to everyone around them. Jesus is the true Light (John 8:12 ^y), and his disciples share in this work. The world was in darkness, but Jesus’ followers are meant to shine like the morning sun and show others the way to God (Ephesians 5:8; Philippians 2:15 ^z).

v. 15: Jesus explains that a city on a hill cannot be hidden. In the same way, Christians should not hide their faith. They are like lights that God has set up for everyone to see. Just as a lamp gives light to everyone in the house, Christians should share God’s love and truth with those around them (Matthew 5:15 ^aa). They must not keep the good news to themselves, but speak and live in a way that helps others know God (Luke 12:3 ^ab).

v. 16: Jesus says, Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. This means people should notice the good things Christians do and be moved to praise God because of them (Philippians 4:8; 1 Peter 4:11 ^ac). The goal is not to show off, but to help others see the truth and power of God’s grace. When people see real Christian living, it can help them understand and love God too. Good examples can teach and even change hearts.

The Sermon on the Mount

In this section, Jesus explains his relationship to the Old Testament scriptures and what true obedience to God looks like. Many people in his time respected the scriptures, but they also followed the example of the scribes and Pharisees, who were the religious leaders. Jesus makes it clear that while the scriptures are right and must be honored, the example of the scribes and Pharisees is not enough. He teaches that his mission is not to destroy the law, but to fulfill and complete it, and that true righteousness must be deeper than what the religious leaders showed.

v. 17: Jesus says, Do not think that I have come to destroy the law or the prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. He wants people to know that he does not reject the Old Testament. He does not cancel or weaken the commands and promises given by Moses and the prophets. Instead, Jesus obeyed the law perfectly (Galatians 4:4 ^ad), fulfilled its promises, showed the true meaning behind its ceremonies, and explained it more fully. His teaching continues and completes what God started in the Old Testament. The gospel is not against the law but brings out its true purpose (Hebrews 9:10 ^ae).

v. 18: Jesus adds, For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one jot or tittle will pass from the law until all is fulfilled (Matthew 5:18 ^af). This means that every detail of God's word is important and lasting. Not even the smallest part will disappear until everything is accomplished. God cares about every part of his law, even things that seem small. His word stands forever and will not fail.

v. 19: Jesus warns, Whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he will be called great in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:19 ^ag). He says that it is dangerous to ignore or weaken even the smallest command of God. Teaching others to do the same is even worse. Those who keep God’s commands and teach others to do so are honored by God. On the other hand, those who make light of God’s commands, or teach others to ignore them, become unimportant or even excluded from God’s true people (Isaiah 9:15; Malachi 2:8,11 ^ah). God honors those who both live and teach his truth (1 Samuel 2:30 ^ai).

v. 20: Jesus continues, Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:20 ^aj). This surprises many people, because the scribes and Pharisees were seen as very religious. They prayed, fasted, gave to the poor, and knew the law. But Jesus says that real righteousness is not just about outward actions or impressing others. It is about obeying God from the heart and trusting in him, not being proud of ourselves. True followers of Jesus must aim higher than the scribes and Pharisees. We must do what is right, not just for show, but for God, and trust in Jesus’ righteousness, not our own.

Jesus Teaches about Anger, Murder, and Reconciliation

In this section, Jesus explains that the righteousness he requires goes far beyond keeping the Old Testament law on the surface. He shows that God looks at the heart, not just at actions. Jesus teaches that anger, insults, and broken relationships are serious in God’s eyes—just like murder. He also tells his followers to make things right with others before worshiping God. This teaching is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus shows how his disciples should live differently from the world.

v. 21: Jesus says, You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment’ (Matthew 5:21 ^ak). He reminds them of the commandment from the law: “Do not murder” (Exodus 20:13 ^al). The people had learned that murder deserved punishment from a human court.

v. 22: But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’ is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell. Jesus teaches that not just murder, but even anger and insulting words are sinful in God’s sight. If someone is angry or calls another person a fool, it is serious, and God will judge it. God cares about what is in our hearts, not just what we do on the outside (Matthew 5:22 ^am).

v. 23: Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, Jesus says that worship is not true if we are not right with other people. If you are about to worship God and remember that someone is upset with you because of something you did, you should not ignore it (Matthew 5:23 ^an).

v. 24: Leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Jesus says it is more important to make peace with others than to give an offering. If you know you have hurt someone, you should go and fix the relationship before you worship God. God wants us to live in peace with each other (Matthew 5:24 ^ao).

v. 25: Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. Jesus teaches that we should try to make things right with others quickly, before things get worse. If you have a problem with someone, work it out as soon as possible, or you might face greater trouble later (Matthew 5:25 ^ap).

v. 26: Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. Jesus warns that if we do not settle things with others, we may face the consequences. It is better to forgive and be forgiven than to let problems grow until they bring punishment (Matthew 5:26 ^aq).

In summary, Jesus teaches that obeying God is about more than just not committing murder. God cares about our hearts, our words, and our relationships. We must deal with anger, avoid insulting others, and always seek to make peace. If we want God to accept our worship, we must first try to be right with other people.

The Sermon on the Mount

In this part of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus explains the seventh commandment, “You shall not commit adultery.” Jesus, who gave the law, now teaches its true meaning. He shows that God cares not only about our actions, but also about our thoughts and desires. Jesus calls everyone to be pure in heart, not just in outward behavior, and warns against any actions or attitudes that lead to sin.

v. 27: Jesus repeats the commandment, You shall not commit adultery (Matthew 5:27 ^ar). This commandment forbids not only the act of adultery but also all kinds of sexual impurity and even the desire for it. The Pharisees taught that only the physical act was wrong, but Jesus says that God sees the heart and cares about our inner thoughts (Psalm 66:18; Luke 18:11 ^as).

v. 28: Jesus explains that even looking at someone with lustful intent is committing adultery in the heart (Matthew 5:28 ^at). Sin begins with our desires. If we let sinful thoughts grow in our minds, it is already sin before any action takes place (James 1:15 ^au). Feeding our eyes or thoughts with wrong things leads to sin, so we must be careful what we look at or listen to (Genesis 39:7; 2 Samuel 11:2 ^av; 2 Peter 2:14 ^aw). Like Job, we should make a covenant with our eyes to avoid impure thoughts (Job 31:1 ^ax). Jesus also warns against dressing or acting to tempt others, because this too is sinful.

v. 29: Jesus teaches that it is better to lose something valuable, like an eye, if it causes you to sin, than to let sin destroy your whole life (Matthew 5:29 ^ay). This means we must be willing to give up anything that leads us to sin, even if it is difficult. We should resist temptation, avoid situations that make us stumble, and ask God for strength to live a pure life. It is better to deny ourselves now than to face God’s judgment later.

v. 30: Jesus repeats his warning: If your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away (Matthew 5:30 ^az). He uses strong language to show how serious sin is. It is better to lose something precious than to lose your soul. Even though it is hard, obeying God is always for our good. Jesus also teaches that warning about judgment is an important part of preaching and living the gospel. We must be serious about turning away from sin, especially sins of impurity, so we do not end up separated from God forever.

v. 31: Jesus addresses divorce. The law allowed a man to give his wife a certificate of divorce (Matthew 5:31 ^ba), but by Jesus’ time, divorce was being used too easily. People thought they could separate for almost any reason (Matthew 19:3,7 ^bb). This was not God’s original plan for marriage.

v. 32: Jesus corrects the misunderstanding. He says that divorce should only happen if there is adultery, because that breaks the marriage covenant (Matthew 5:32 ^bc). If someone divorces their spouse for another reason, they cause them to commit adultery, and the person who marries a divorced person also shares in that sin. Jesus teaches that we should not lead others into sin or make it easier for them to sin (Psalm 50:18 ^bd). We are responsible not only for our own actions, but also for how we influence others.

The Sermon on the Mount

In this section, Jesus explains the true meaning of the third commandment about not taking the Lord’s name in vain. He makes it clear that God takes this commandment seriously, and that we must be very careful with our words, especially when making promises or oaths. Jesus teaches that honesty and respect for God’s name should guide everything we say.

v. 33: Jesus reminds his listeners that the law says, You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn (Matthew 5:33 ^be). This commandment forbids perjury—breaking oaths or making false promises. Perjury is a serious sin because it is both disrespectful to God and unfair to other people (Psalm 24:4 ^bf). When someone swears an oath, they call God as their witness. If they lie, they are inviting God’s judgment on themselves. Promises made before God must be kept, whether they are vows to God or promises made to other people (Numbers 30:2; Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 ^bg).

v. 34: Jesus teaches, But I say to you, Do not swear at all (Matthew 5:34; James 5:12 ^bh). This means we should not use oaths carelessly or in ordinary conversation. Swearing an oath is a serious act and should only be done when truly necessary, like in a court of law (Hebrews 6:16 ^bi). Oaths are part of worship when used properly (Deuteronomy 6:13 ^bj), but in daily speech we should avoid them. Our words should be trustworthy without the need for extra promises.

v. 35: Jesus explains that we must not swear by anything else, like heaven, earth, Jerusalem, or even our own head (Matthew 5:34-36 ^bk). Heaven is God’s throne, earth is his footstool (Psalm 24:1 ^bl), and Jerusalem is the city of the great King (Psalm 48:2 ^bm). Even our own heads belong to God, because we cannot change anything about ourselves without him (Psalm 3:3 ^bn). So, swearing by these things is really swearing by God, and we should avoid it.

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v. 37: Jesus says, Let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil (Matthew 5:37 ^bo). In daily life, we should simply speak the truth. If we say yes, we should mean yes. If we say no, we should mean no. People should trust our words without us needing to swear an oath. Using oaths in casual speech shows a lack of honesty and respect, and can lead to sin. Christians should avoid not just what is clearly wrong, but also what even looks like it could be wrong. Our words should be simple and true, for this honors both God and others.

The Sermon on the Mount

In these verses, Jesus teaches about forgiveness and how to respond when people treat us badly. He explains the Old Testament law of retaliation, which said “an eye for an eye,” but then shows a new and better way. Jesus tells his followers not to seek revenge, but instead to show patience, kindness, and generosity, even to those who do wrong to them.

v. 38: The old law said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth (Exodus 21:24; Leviticus 24:20; Deuteronomy 19:21 ^bp). This law was for the judges, to make sure punishments were fair and not too harsh. It was meant to guide the courts, not to give people the right to take revenge on their own. Some teachers, however, taught that everyone should demand strict justice, even for small injuries, and that forgiveness was not needed. But Jesus shows that this is not the way of love.

v. 39: Jesus says, Do not resist the one who is evil (Matthew 5:39 ^bq). This means we should not be revengeful or try to get even with someone who wrongs us. If someone hits you on the right cheek, do not hit back, but be patient and show forgiveness. Jesus gives the example of turning the other cheek. This does not mean we cannot protect ourselves or others when truly needed, but we should not respond to insults or small injuries with anger or hatred (Romans 12:17; Proverbs 25:21-22 ^br). Jesus himself was mistreated, but he did not fight back (Micah 5:1 ^bs).

v. 40: If someone sues you and takes your coat, let him have your cloak as well (Matthew 5:40 ^bt). This means that it is better to lose something small than to start a fight or hold a grudge. Sometimes, letting go of your rights keeps the peace and shows true Christian character. It is better to suffer a wrong than to get into arguments or seek revenge (Ecclesiastes 5:8 ^bu).

v. 41: If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles (Matthew 5:41 ^bv). This teaches us to do more than is required, even when we are treated unfairly. Do not argue or complain, but be willing to help, even if it feels forced. Jesus wants his followers to show love and patience, even to those who are not kind to them.

v. 42: Jesus says, Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you (Matthew 5:42 ^bw). This means we should be generous and ready to help others, not just avoid doing harm. When someone is in need, we should give and lend freely, as long as we are wise and careful. God is generous to us, so we should also be generous to others (Psalm 112:5 ^bx).

The Sermon on the Mount

In this section, Jesus explains the true meaning of the command to love your neighbor. He corrects false ideas taught by some Jewish teachers, who narrowed the meaning of “neighbor” and even encouraged hatred of enemies. Jesus teaches that true followers of God must love all people, even those who treat them badly. This loving attitude reflects the character of God and goes beyond what is natural or expected in human society.

v. 43: The law teaches, You shall love your neighbor (Matthew 5:43 ^by). But some teachers wrongly added, and hate your enemy. This was not God’s intention. God’s law really teaches kindness even to foreigners and former enemies (Exodus 23:4-5; Deuteronomy 23:7 ^bz). But people often use God’s commands to justify their own anger or hatred. Jesus wants his followers to live by God’s true meaning, not human tradition.

v. 44: Jesus says, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44 ^ca). This is very different from the common attitude of wishing harm for those who hurt us. Christians are called to show respect, kindness, and compassion to everyone, even those who are unkind. We should look for good qualities in people, even our enemies, and want what is best for them. We are also told to bless those who curse us, do good to those who hate us, and pray for those who mistreat us (1 Peter 3:9 ^cb). This shows the spirit of Jesus, who loved and prayed for his enemies.

v. 45: Jesus gives a reason for this command: That you may be children of your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:45 ^cc). God shows kindness to everyone. He sends sunshine and rain to both good and evil people. These everyday blessings are gifts from God, who is generous and patient, even to those who do not deserve it. When we love our enemies, we are being like God and showing that we are his true children.

v. 46-47: Jesus explains that loving only our friends is nothing special. Even tax collectors and non-believers do that (Matthew 5:46-47 ^cd). Christians are called to go beyond ordinary kindness. We must do more than others, especially by loving those who do not love us in return. God expects his people to live differently because they know his love and have received so much from him.

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v. 48: Jesus finishes this teaching by saying, Be perfect, as your Father in heaven is perfect (Matthew 5:48 ^ce). This means we should aim to be as loving, merciful, and forgiving as God is. Christians should always try to grow in grace and holiness, copying the example of their heavenly Father (Philippians 3:12-14; 1 Peter 1:15-16 ^cf). God’s perfection is seen in his kindness to all people, even enemies, and we should try to be like him, especially in forgiving and doing good to others (Luke 6:36 ^cg).