Be Happy, 5:1-12 (Luke 6:20-23).
[1-2] Many people were following Jesus in Galilee (Matthew 4:25). Many large hills surrounded Lake Galilee. When Jesus taught, He sat down like other religious teachers of His day (Luke 4:20-21). Matthew 5:1-7:29 is the largest teaching section in the Gospels (the books that tell about Jesus’ life: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John). Jesus talked about who will be happy. All people want to be happy, especially the poor. Jesus told them how they could be happy.
[3] A person who is broken in spirit is one who knows his spiritual need for God. David wrote that a person broken in spirit is cared for by the Lord (Psalm 34:6, 18; 51:17). Those who belong to God must not be proud (Isaiah 2:12; James 4:6). Jesus showed an example of a proud spirit and a broken spirit in Luke 18:9-14. A prideful man does not know he needs God. Even the best man must realize his need for God. Children of God have been saved by grace and not through their own goodness (Ephesians 2:8-9).
[4] Not all crying brings happiness. Jesus knew this. He spoke here of a godly kind of crying (2 Corinthians 7:10). Sorrow for sin leads to forgiveness and comfort from God. God is ready to forgive us and comfort us if we are ready to admit our sins (1 John 1:9).
[5] Being humble is not the same as being weak. Moses was called the most humble man (Numbers 12:3). Jesus was also humble (Matthew 11:29; 21:5; 2 Corinthians 10:1). Humble people are people who control their strength. Humility is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23). Children of God are told to put on humility (Colossians 3:12; 1 Peter 3:8). To receive the earth may mean that they will have what they need in this life. This will happen because they are not fighting to have possessions. If God controls your strength, and you are humble, you will have what you need. To receive the earth could also mean to be given the new heaven and earth (2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1). Humility, then, brings happiness that lasts forever.
[6] Every man’s body needs food and water. Hunger and thirst are strong needs. They must be met if the body is to live. David felt strongly about God (Psalm 42:1-2; 63:1). A person will be filled with what he desires. If you desire what is right, you will be filled. What a man is filled with is important (see Matthew 5:8).
[7] God is merciful (Luke 6:36). Jesus is merciful (Hebrews 2:17). God wants His people to be merciful (Matthew 23:23). A man who gives mercy will find a time in his own life when he needs mercy. Jesus showed how evil it is not to be merciful (Matthew 18:23-35). God will give us mercy only if we are merciful (Matthew 6:14-15).
[8] The heart is very important. In the Old Testament, the heart was the source of the will. It was the place where thoughts began. What is inside a man is important (Matthew 15:10-11, 16-20; Mark 7:20-23). Our hearts, our inner thoughts, must be kept pure (Proverbs 4:23). Jesus said that a man must love God with all his heart (Matthew 22:37). Those who keep their hearts pure will see God. To see God is the hope of the child of God (1 Corinthians 13:12; Revelation 22:4; 1 John 3:2).
[9] Those who actively make peace bring peace. God is this way (Romans 15:33; Philippians 4:9). He actively made peace through Christ (Ephesians 2:11-17; Colossians 1:20). The wicked man does not know peace (Jeremiah 6:14; Romans 3:17). A man who does not make peace makes trouble among his brothers. We can have peace only when we first have peace with God through Christ (Romans 5:1; John 16:33). Peace is from God (Galatians 5:22; James 3:16-17). Christians are to be at peace with one another (Romans 14:19; Ephesians 4:3). Peace shows that we are God’s sons. A person who does not do what is right is a child of the Devil (1 John 3:10). God calls us sons if we follow His way (Romans 8:14-17).
[10] Suffering itself does not make a man happy. A man can suffer from his own sin (1 Peter 2:20). That man is not happy. He suffers physically, and his spirit is weak. This verse shows that happiness comes not from persecution, but from doing right. You can be happy because you are pleasing God (1 Peter 3:14; 4:12-16). The Christian should expect suffering (Philippians 1:29; 2 Timothy 3:12). It is a part of sharing the sufferings of Christ (1 Peter 4:13). Paul desired to share in Christ’s sufferings (Philippians 3:10). For the phrase “king¬dom of heaven,” see Matthew 3:2.
Matthew 5:11-20
11 “You will be happy when people insult you, persecute you, and tell all kinds of lies against you because of me. 12 You should be full of joy and be very glad, because you will have great rewards in heaven. This was the way your ancestors persecuted the prophets before you.” 13 “You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt loses its salty taste, then it is no good. You cannot make it salty again. It is good for nothing. It is thrown outside where people walk on it. 14 You are light for the world. It is not possible to hide a city which is sitting on a hill. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, he puts the lamp on a lamp table, and it shines for everyone in the house. 16 So, let your light shine in front of people, so that they will see the good things you do. Then they will give glory to your Father, who is in heaven.” 17 “Do not think I came to destroy the law or the prophets. I did not come to destroy them. I have come to give them their full meaning. 18 I am telling you the truth: While heaven and earth are standing, not even the smallest letter – or part of a letter – can be changed in the law until everything is completed. 19 Anyone who disobeys even one of the smallest commands and teaches this way to others will not be important in the kingdom of heaven. But, anyone who obeys and teaches the right way will be important in the kingdom of heaven. 20 I tell you, if your ‘righteousness’ is no better than that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”
[11-12] Jesus began to speak directly to those who listened. Rather than talking about others who lived before, He said, “You.” They would be insulted, persecuted, and lied about because they followed Christ. It is important to understand the cost of being a follower of Christ (Matthew 8:18-22; Luke 14:28-33). These things have always happened to God’s followers (Hebrews 11:32-38; 1 Kings 19:10; 2 Chronicles 16:10; Jeremiah 38:16ff.). Jesus prepared them for what was to come. Difficulties were to be expected, but there would be a reward.
Salt and Light, 5:13-16.
[13] Salt was very important. In Jesus’ day it was often stored in bags made of animal skins. During damp weather the pure salt could leak away. Salt was used for preserving food (Leviticus 2:13; Exodus 30:35; Ezekiel 43:24). It was also used to season food (Job 6:6; Colossians 4:6). Jesus told His followers that they were to be like salt is to food. They were to work to preserve (save) their people. A follower of Christ will be a blessing to his community.
[14-16] Jewish cities were built on hills to leave the fields for cultivation. It would be impossible to hide such a city. The Jews used oil lamps much like small kerosene lanterns. Used properly, the lamps would give light to the house. Jesus was a powerful light (John 8:12). He came to save people from the darkness (John 3:19-21). The follower of Christ turns from darkness to light (Acts 26:18). He becomes a light (Philippians 2:15). The light he has is not his own, but Christ’s. The follower must do good works to bring glory to God (1 Peter 2:12; 1 Timothy 5:25; 6:18).
Jesus and the Law, 5:17-20.
[17] Many Jews of Jesus’ day thought He was dangerous. He was changing things. Jesus lived by the law (Galatians 4:4). He came to fulfill the law (Matthew 5:17). He fulfilled it by perfectly obeying it. He fulfilled its prophecies. He achieved its intended purpose (Galatians 3:19, 23-24).
[18] Jesus was saying that the law was important. It would stand until it (the law) completed its purpose. That purpose was to prepare and guide men until Christ came and saved the world (Galatians 3:23-25).
[19] Jesus was talking with Jews who were living under the Jewish law. The law still governed their lives. They must obey the law. He taught that there were degrees of importance within the kingdom of heaven (see Matthew 11:11; 18:1, 4). To obey the will of God was important in the Old Testament and in the New Testament.
[20] Here Jesus openly opposed the Pharisees and the teachers of the law. Their righteousness was only external. They had not changed their hearts (Matthew 15:1-20; 23:25-32; Luke 11:39-41). Religion involves more than ceremonies, prayers, sacrifices, and taboos. To enter the religion of Christ means to accept the rule of God in one’s heart.
Matthew 5:21-30
21 “You have heard that this was said to the people long ago: ‘Do not murder. Anyone who commits murder will be punished.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be punished. Anyone who says ‘You idiot!’ to his brother must answer to the Jewish Council. Anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be punished in hell fire. 23 Suppose you are bringing your gift to God at the altar. While there, you remember that your brother has something against you. 24 Leave your gift right there in front of the altar. The important thing is to go and make friends with your brother. When you come back, offer your gift to God. 25 When someone is trying to sue you, settle things out of court quickly. Do this while you are still with him on the way to court, or he might give you to the judge. And the judge might give you to the officer and then you might be thrown into jail. 26 I am telling you the truth: You may never get out of there, until you pay off the last penny.” 27 “You have heard this said: ‘You must not commit adultery.’ 28 But I am telling you that when any man continues looking at a woman because he wants her sexually, he has already, in his heart, committed adultery with her. 29 If your right eye is making you sin, take it out and throw it away from you! You would be better off to destroy one part of your body than to have your whole body thrown into hell. 30 Or, if your right hand is making you sin, cut it off and throw it away from you! You would be better off to destroy one member of your body than for your whole body to go off into hell. “
Make Things Right, 5:21-26.
[21-22] Jesus repeated the sixth commandment given through Moses (Exodus 20:13). He showed them that anger in the heart leads to murder (Matthew 15:19). Anger is just as wrong as murder (1 John 3:15). “You idiot” are unkind words that mean “empty-headed,” “stupid,” and “good-for-nothing.” God does not want us to judge others like that. “Hell fire” comes from the word “Gehenna.” The valley of Gehenna was south of the Jerusalem. Ahaz introduced the worship of Molech there (2 Kings 23:10; 2 Chronicles 28:3). Josiah destroyed that worship. The valley was used to burn rubbish. “Gehenna” (hell) was then used as a symbol of the place of future punishment of the wicked (Matthew 10:28; 18:9; 23:15, 33).
[23-24] Worshipping God is of no value if you have trouble with your brother. Being a religious man means being a good man. You cannot love God and hate your brother (1 John 4:19-21). Jesus came to bring peace between God and man (Romans 5:1). He also made peace between men (Ephesians 2:11-22).
[25-26] Jesus knew it was possible to be imprisoned for a debt (Matthew 18:23-35). It was better to settle out of court. The child of God must remember that he will appear before God (Romans 14:12; 2 Corinthians 5:10). It is best to reconcile with your brother before the judgement.
Jesus Is Lord of the Heart, 5:27-30.
[27-28] Jesus quoted the seventh commandment (Exodus 20:34). Adultery is a sexual act involving a married person and someone other than his spouse. Every person can fall into thinking evil thoughts. There is forgiveness if we confess our sins (1 John 1:9). To continue thinking the evil thoughts about adultery is wrong (Colossians 3:5; 1 Thessalonians 4:3; Ephesians 5:3). The sin is in the heart before the act is committed. The desire for a woman is not bad. To lust after a woman you cannot have is sin.
[29-30] In these verses Jesus made His point very strong. It is better to lose an eye or hand than to be punished in hell. Hell is serious; therefore, you must control your thoughts and actions (Matthew 18:8-9; Mark 9:43-47). For “hell,” see Matthew 5:22.
Matthew 5:31-42
31 “This has been said: ‘A man who divorces his wife must give her divorce papers.’ 32 But I am telling you, unless the reason is her sexual sin, any man who divorces his wife causes her to commit adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery, too. 33 “Again, you have heard that this was said to the people long ago: ‘Do not break your vow by God; do what you promised!’ 34 But I am telling you this: Do not make vows by God! Don’t make a vow by heaven, because heaven is God’s throne. 35 Don’t do it by the earth, because the earth is God’s footstool. Don’t do it by Jerusalem, because that is the city of the great king. 36 Don’t do it by your head, because you are not able to change one hair to be white or black. 37 Your yes answer should mean ‘yes’ and your no answer should mean ‘no.’ Saying any more than this is bad.” 38 “You have heard that this was said: ‘Get back an eye for an eye. Get back a tooth for a tooth.’ 39 But I am telling you this: Do not fight back against evil. Instead, if a person hits you on the right side of your face, turn the other side to him, too! 40 If someone wants to sue you in order to take your shirt, let him have your robe, too! 41 If someone forces you to go one mile, go two miles with him! 42 Give to every person who asks you. When someone wants to borrow something, lend it to him.”
Divorce and Remarriage, 5:31-32 (Matthew 19:9; Mark 10:11; Luke 16:18).
[31-32] Moses provided the Israelites with a certificate of divorce (Deuteronomy 24:1). Divorce was widely permitted. Jesus said it was wrong to divorce unless it was for the reason of sexual sin.
Say What You Mean and Do It, 5:33-37.
[33] The law prohibited taking the name of God in vain (Exodus 20:7). Vows under certain conditions were permitted (Exodus 22:10f.; Numbers 5:19-22). Only false vows were forbidden. To vow was to promise.
[34] To vow by something was not necessary for the disciple of Christ. The disciple was simply to tell the truth and to keep his word. Jews had ways not to keep their vows (Matthew 23:16f.). Jesus at one time answered under oath (Matthew 26:63-64).
[35-37] The disciple was not to vow by things he had no control over. He had control over his words and actions. His word should be true, and his actions should follow his word.
Return Good Not Evil, 5:38-42.
[38] Jewish civil law made it possible for one to be avenged (Exodus 21:22-25). In Jesus’ day, money payments were allowed as payments to one who had been wronged.
[39-42] Jesus refused to let His disciples take vengeance into their own hands. They had more important things to do. God will take care of vengeance (Romans 12:19ff.). If we leave vengeance to God, then we will be free to love our enemies (Romans 12:20-21). Outside forces do not determine the disciple’s behaviour: a physical blow (Matthew 5:39), a legal suit (1 Corinthians 6:7), a forced demand, a demand for money, a loan. Inner goodness makes us want to do better than the law requires.
Matthew 5:43- 6:4
43“You have heard that this was said: ‘Love your friend and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say this to you: Love your enemies! Pray for those who are cruel to you, 45 so that you will become sons of your Father, who is in heaven. God’s sun shines upon good people and bad people. It rains upon the people who do right and upon those who do wrong. 46 If you love only those people who love you, then you are not any better than anyone else. Even tax collectors do the same thing! 47 If you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing? Even people without God do the same thing! You must be mature, as your Father in heaven is.” 6 1 “Be careful not to do your good deeds in front of people, so that they will notice you. If you do that, you will not receive a reward from your Father who is in heaven. 2 When you help poor people, don’t sound a trumpet before you. The hypocrites act like that in the synagogues and on the streets, so that people will praise them. I am telling you the truth: They have received their reward. 3 Instead, when you are helping poor people, don’t let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that it will be in secret. Your heavenly Father secretly sees this; He will repay you.”
Love Your Enemies, 5:43-48.
[43] Leviticus 19:18 commanded the Jews to love their neighbours. The word “neighbour” is translated “friend” here. There was no command to hate the enemy. This was assumed as the result of loving their friends. There were unkind feelings toward the enemy (Deuteronomy 23:3-6; Psalm 109; 137:7-9). Sometimes (the) Jews wrongly hated other men because they (the Jews) were loved by God, chosen by Him.
[44] Jesus gave a hard command: Love your enemies. Christian love is not a feeling. Christian love is acting lovingly, doing good (even when you do not feel like it), and praying for the enemy (Romans 12:20; 1 Corinthians 4:12-13). Actions must speak of love.
[45] This is the way God acts. He loves sinners who are like enemies to Him (Romans 5:10). He acted lovingly (Romans 5:8). He sends His blessings on all mankind, good and bad. If we will act lovingly, we will be sons of God – acting like Him (Matthew 5:9).
[46-48] The rest of the world knows how to treat friends. They know how to return love for love. If Christ’s followers do only the same, they are no better than pagans. In Christ, true love is seen (1 John 3:36). His love must change the lives of His followers. His followers should try to love their enemies.
Seek God’s Approval, 6:1-4.
[1] True religion involves good deeds. Christians are created for good works (Ephesians 2:10). Good deeds are not for self-glorification. Good works can bring glory to God (Matthew 5:16), and they must. If religion involves only outward actions (to get attention), it is of no value (see Matthew 23:33f.). Jesus used three common examples: giving to the poor (Matthew 6:2-4), praying (Matthew 6:5-15), and fasting (Matthew 6:16-18). We must seek God’s approval, not men’s approval.
[2-4] To “sound a trumpet” is to make yourself noticed. Hypocrites are those who act as though they are good when they are not. The only reward they will receive is the praise of men (see Luke 18:9-12). Jesus said that His disciples were not to make a religious show of their good deeds. Their desire should not be to make people notice them. People may notice, but that should not be the reason for doing good deeds. If good deeds are done with the right desire, God will reward. He sees everything (Psalm 139:12; 2 Corinthians 5:10).
Matthew 6: 5-18
5 “And when you pray, don’t be like the two-faced people. They love to stand praying in the synagogues and on the street corners, so that other people will see them. I am telling you the truth: They have received their reward. 6 Instead, when you pray, go into your private room and close the door. Then pray secretly to your heavenly Father. He sees this in secret; He will repay you.” 7 “When you pray, don’t use words without thinking, as people in the world do. They think that by saying many words they will be listened to. 8 Don’t be like them. Your heavenly Father knows the things you need, even before you ask Him.” 9 “This is the way you should pray: ‘Father in heaven, may Your name always be kept holy.
10 May Your kingdom come. May what You want done be done. May it always he here on earth as it is in heaven. 11 Give us the food we need each day. 12 Forgive us of the sins we have committed, as we forgive everyone who has done wrong to us. 13 Keep us away from temptation. Rescue us from the evil one.’ ” 14 “If you forgive people of the things they have done wrong to you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 However, if you do not forgive people, then your Father will not forgive the wrong things which you have done.” 16 “And when you fast, do not wear a sad face as the hypocrites do. They make their faces look serious, so that people will realize that they are fasting. I am telling you the truth: They are receiving their reward. 17 Instead, when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face, 18 so that people will not realize that you are fasting. Your heavenly Father sees it in secret; He will repay you openly.”
Prayer, 6:5-15 (Luke 11:14).
[5-6] Standing was a common way of praying (Luke 18:10ff.). Jesus was not saying that we should not pray with others. Jesus prayed with others (Matthew 15:36). The lesson is the same as with giving (Matthew 6:1-4). Why do people pray? Are they praying to men (to be seen by them) or to God? The teachers of the law and the Pharisees did their deeds to be seen by men (Matthew 23:5ff.). Prayer is offered to God. Something is wrong if a person only prays in public. God is not a god who must be shamed in public to make Him answer. He listens to people even when they are alone.
[7-8] Men must think about what they are saying. Pagans must cry to their gods (1 Kings 18:25-29). Pagans chant magical words. They pray a long time and very loudly because they want their god to hear, Jesus said that God is near. He knows our needs before we ask. He is interested in us! He wants to hear our prayers! The pagan has no such assurance and hope.
[9] Jesus gave them an example prayer. He did not say, “Pray this prayer.” He said, “Pray in this way.” Jesus called God “Father.” Whenever He prayed, He called God “Father,” “My Father” (Matthew 26:39, 42), or He used the Aramaic (a Jewish language), Abba (Mark 14:36). Abba is what a small child would call his father. Jesus invited His disciples to the same relationship with God. The followers of Christ looked to God as Father, Abba (Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6). There is no fear in this relationship. God is our Father. God’s name is kept holy when He is seen as the all powerful and sovereign Lord. His name was not kept holy when Israel went into captivity (Ezekiel 36:20-23). We keep His name holy when we respect His power and do His will (verse 10).
[10] For notes on the “kingdom,” see Matthew 3:2. The kingdom was the rule of God in the lives of men. John first preached the kingdom (Matthew 3:2). Jesus preached the kingdom (Matthew 4:17). The disciples preached the kingdom (Matthew 10:7). Christians have been brought into the kingdom (Colossians 1:13). If His kingdom is His rule in our lives, then it is important for His will to be done. This petition continues the request for the kingdom to come. Jesus Himself prayed this prayer (Matthew 26:39). This request defines the kingdom. The “kingdom” is not a political domain. It manifests itself when God rules the lives of men, when His will is done in their lives. This is a prayer for God to accomplish what He wants to do. This Kingdom, after the day of Pentecost will be known as Christ’s church. (Romans 16:16)
[11] God is concerned for our spiritual needs. He is also concerned about our physical needs, our daily needs. When God was taking care of Israel in the desert, He gave them bread (Exodus 16:13-31). They were to gather it daily, except on the Sabbath. This was to teach them that they could depend on God. He is faithful. We can depend on Him the same way (see Matthew 6:24ff.).
[12] Forgiveness is a great need of man. God has the power to forgive sins (Isaiah 43:25). He wants to forgive sins (1 John 1:9). Matthew indicates that we also must be forgiving (see Mark 11:25), if we want to be forgiven.
[13] This prayer is for the Lord’s protection. He will protect His children. God does not tempt us (James 1:13). We can pray to be kept from evil (John 17:15). The “evil one” is the Devil. God will not let us be tempted beyond what we are able to bear (1 Corinthians 10:13). This prayer can bring a secure feeling to Christians. They do not need to fear evil spirits, spirits of the ancestors, demons, or any Satanic power. God is more powerful and will protect His people! See Romans 8:31-39; Colossians 2:15; 1 John 4:4.
[14-15] These verses should be seen as giving added meaning to verse twelve. See also Matthew 18:21-35.
Fasting, 6:16-18.
[16] To “fast” is to go without food for a period of time for spiritual reasons. Jesus was saying here that the point of fasting was not to tell everyone about the fast. Many people fasted to be noticed by men. They received no reward from God. Fasting can serve a good purpose (Acts 13:2; 1 Corinthians 7:5; 2 Corinthians 11:27; Isaiah 58).
[17-18] In the Old Testament, many people who fasted did not wash (2 Samuel 12:16, 20). They also put ashes on their heads (Joshua 7:6; Job 2:12). This usually showed sorrow. Prophets such as Isaiah did not like this outward show (Isaiah 58:3-7). Jesus said that a fast should be between God and the one fasting.
Matthew 6:19-34
19 “Do not store your treasures on the earth, where moths and rust destroy and where robbers dig through to steal. 20 Instead, store your treasures in heaven where moths and rust do not destroy and where robbers cannot dig through to steal. 21 The place where your treasure is will also be the place where your heart is.” 22 “Your eye is like a lamp for the body. If your eye can see clearly, then the whole body is made bright. 23 But if your eye is dark with sin, then your whole body is made dark. If the light in you becomes dark, how great is that darkness!” 24 “No one can serve two masters at the same time. He will either like one and not like the other or he will be more loyal to one and not care about the other. You cannot serve God and Money at the same time. 25 Because of this, I am telling you, you should not worry about what you will eat to stay alive. Don’t worry about what clothes you will wear. Living is more important than eating, and the body is more important than clothes. 26 Look at the wild birds of the sky. Birds do not plant seeds or harvest them or gather them into barns, but your heavenly Father takes care of them. Are you not worth so much more than birds? Of course! 27 None of you can grow 18 inches taller by worrying about it. 28 And why worry about clothes? Learn from the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work hard or make threads for clothes. 29 I tell you, even Solomon, with all his beautiful clothes, was not dressed as well as one of these flowers. 30 Look how well God clothes the grass in the fields! But the grass is here today and thrown into the oven tomorrow to be burned. Will not God dress you so much better? Oh, you have so little faith!” 31 “So, don’t worry, thinking to yourself, ‘What will we eat?’ or, ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘What will we wear?’ 32 People without God put all these things first. Your heavenly Father knows you need all these things. 33 So, put first God’s kingdom and what is right. Then all the things you need will be given to you. 34 Don’t worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will have its own worries. There is enough trouble in just one day.”
Treasures, 6:19-23.
[19] What things are most important? Many people believe earthly possessions are the most important. Jesus reminded His disciples that these do not last long. They can be destroyed. They can be stolen. Trusting in riches is foolish (Proverbs 11:28; 23:4).
[20-21] Heavenly riches cannot be destroyed or stolen. They are secure (1 Timothy 6:19). The rich man in Luke 16:19ff had only treasures on earth. The poor who receive the Good News of Jesus can have riches in heaven.
[22-23] The eye can affect the whole body. If it sees clearly, all is well. Spiritually, Jesus was saying that a bad heart can affect the whole life of a man.
First Things First, 6:24-34.
[24] Man cannot divide his loyalty. A nation cannot be a colony and an independent country at the same time. It is impossible and dangerous to divide loyalty. Something must be of greatest importance (James 4:4).
[25] To help man be loyal to God, Jesus let the people know God takes care of man. Christians should not be fearful about their physical needs. God will care for them. They pray for His care (Matthew 6:11). They can trust Him (1 Peter 5:7). Prayer with thanksgiving removes anxiety (Philippians 4:6). God is the giver of life, and He will give us what we need (1 Corinthians 8:6). He is not like pagan gods. He knows our needs (Matthew 6:8). He will help (Matthew 7:11).
[26-30] Jesus gave several examples to help remove worry. The birds do not work like men. They do not plant, harvest, nor store in granaries. Yet they eat. They work hard each day, but they do not worry. God notices them (Matthew 10:29) and He cares for them. Worry will not accomplish a thing. It will not make us grow taller. The wild flowers were better dressed than rich King Solomon. Jesus wanted His followers to have faith in God. The followers of Christ quickly forgot that Jesus could feed them (Matthew 16:8f.). God knows each one of us. We are worth more than birds, whether we are rich or poor. God is especially aware of the poor. He will care for us.
[31-32] Pagans worry about what they will eat and drink. They also worry about what they will wear. They must because their god cannot help. Worry about these things shows that God has been forgotten. Christians do not need to worry because God knows their needs, and He can help.
[33-34] The most important thing for the Christian is the kingdom of God. When His kingdom is first (the most important thing in life), other things are then in the right place. God has all power. There is no need to fear if we trust Him. Deal with today’s events with trust in God rather than worrying about tomorrow.
Matthew 7:1-12
7 1 “Don’t pass judgment on others. Then you won’t be condemned. 2 You will be judged by the standard which you use to judge others. You will he measured by the measure you use to measure others. 3 Why do you see the small speck which is in your brother’s eye, but you don’t notice the wooden pole which is in your own eye? 4 Or, how can you say this to your brother: ‘Let me take that little speck out of your eye!’? When, look, there is a wooden pole in your own eye! 5 You are a hypocrite! First, take the pole out of your own eye. Then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.” 6 “Don’t give what is holy to dogs. Don’t throw your pearls in front of pigs. They might walk on them, then turn and attack you!” 7 “So, I tell you, continue asking, and it will be given to you. Keep on searching and you will find. Be knocking, and the door will open for you. 8 You will receive, if you will always ask. You will find, if you continue looking. And the door will open for you, if you continue knocking. 9 Do any of you have a son? What would you do if your son asked you for bread? Would you give him a rock? 10 What if he asked you for a fish? Would you give him a snake? 11 You are evil people, and yet you know how to give good gifts to your children. Surely your heavenly Father knows how to give good things to those people who ask Him.” 12 “Do for other people all the things which you want them to do for you. This is the meaning of the law and the prophets.”
Judging, 7:1-6 (Luke 6:37-42).
[1-2] Jesus was telling them that they should not condemning others. There is a sense in which the Christian is to judge. He is to use his ability to judge the teaching of men (Galatians 1:9). He is to test (judge) spirits (1 John 4:1). He is to judge those he has in his house as guests (2 John 10-11). The Christian must use his ability to judge right and wrong (Philippians 1:9-10). Christians should not be judgemental in their attitudes toward others (Romans 2:1-2; Colossians 2:16; James 4:11-12). God will judge everything at the right time (Hebrews 10:30). As with mercy (Matthew 5:7), so it is with judgement. Men who are harsh in their judgements are judged harshly by others.
[3-5] A very critical heart often cannot see its own faults. Each man should be concerned with the problems in his own life first. For “hypocrite,” see Matthew 6:2. Jesus used some humour here. How easy it is to see another’s small fault and overlook our great faults. If you deal with your problems, then you will be able to help others too.
[6] Dogs and pigs were unclean animals to the Jews. Dogs would not know what was holy and what was not holy. Pigs would not know the value of pearls. Jesus taught in this parable that the disciple should not press the things of the kingdom upon those who do not appreciate the kingdom. The teachings of the kingdom are for those who are looking for it. Continue to Pray, 7:7-12.
[7-8] Each action (ask, seek, knock) teaches the same lesson. This is the way we will receive, find, and have the door opened (see Luke 18:1-8). God is faithful and will answer us.
[9-11] Fathers know how to give their sons what they need. Bread and fish were the main foods of the Galileans. Compared to God, men are evil. He will know how to give us what we need (James 1:17). You can be sure that God will listen and meet your needs. He will work for your best interests (Romans 8:28).
[12] Jesus wanted His disciples to be like God the Father (Matthew 5:43-48; 22:34-40). This means that you do not harm other people. It also means that you actively do good to others (Galatians 5:14). Many teachers of the law and the Pharisees only performed the outward rituals of religion. Jesus said that the law also told how to treat others (Matthew 23:23).
Matthew 7:13-23
13 “Go through the narrow door which leads to eternal life. The door is wide and the road is broad which leads to destruction. Many people are entering through it. 14 The door is small which leads to life and the road is narrow. Only a few people are finding it.” 15 “Be careful of false prophets. They come to you wearing clothes to make them look like sheep, but they are actually fierce wolves. 16 They can be recognized by the things they produce. Do people get grapes from thorn bushes? Do they gather figs from thorny weeds? 17 So, every tree which is a good tree produces good fruit. But a rotten tree produces bad fruit. 18 It is not possible for a good tree to yield bad fruit. A rotten tree cannot yield good fruit. 19 Every tree which does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into fire. 20 Therefore, you can recognize them by what they produce.” 21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the kingdom of heaven. Only the person who does what my heavenly Father wants will enter it. 22 On that Day many people will say this to me: ‘Lord! Lord! Isn’t it true that we have prophesied, using your name? We threw out demons with your name. And, by your name, we performed many miracles.’ 23 But then I will say this openly to them: ‘You people who are doing wrong, go away from me, because I never knew you!'”
The Narrow Door, 7:13-14.
[13-14] There are two choices in life. The wide door and broad road lead to death. Many people go that way. The way of the wicked leads to death (Psalm 1:6; Proverbs 14:12). Everyone who does not follow Christ and His way will be destroyed (Philippians 1:28; Hebrews 10:29; 2 Peter 3:7; 2 Thessalonians 1:7).
The road to life is small because few will go that way. Jesus is the door (John 10:7, 9), and He is the way (John 14:6). He is the only way to the Father and to life.
False Prophets, 7:15-20.
[15] Be careful, for there are false prophets. They look like true prophets. The Israelites were to watch out for false prophets (Deuteronomy 18:18-22). Servants of the Devil can look like servants of God (2 Corinthians 11:15). They will look like sheep (children of God) but will be wolves. There are other warnings against false prophets (1 Timothy 4:1f.; 2 Timothy 3:1ff.; Matthew 24:11; Romans 16:17; 2 Peter 2:1; 1 John 4:1).
[16-20] The real test is not in physical appearance but in the fruit produced (James 3:11-12). Detecting false teachers is a problem for the church. The power to perform miracles does not make one a true prophet (Matthew 7:21-23; 2 Thessalonians 2:9). A man’s teaching must be measured by the Word of God. Many can use the way of Christ for their own dishonest gain (2 Peter 2:3).
Some Religious People Will Be Lost, 7:21-23 (Luke 6:43-44).
[21] It is not enough to be a religious person. The word “Lord” means master. A master is to be obeyed. Obedience will determine who will enter heaven (1 John 2:17). Many in Jesus’ day did not follow God obediently (Matthew 15:8).
[22-23] Many will claim to have done great deeds: prophecy, casting out of demons, and miracles. Doing these things does not prove one is a child of God. Doing them “in His name” does not prove anything. Performing miracles is not a sign of being a true disciple. Satan has always worked wonders of his own (Exodus 8:7ff.; Deuteronomy 13:1-3; Matthew 24:24; 2 Thessalonians 2:9). “That day” is the Day of Judgement. The disobedient will be judged as evildoers. Jesus will judge them (Matthew 3:12; 25:31-46) and tell them, “I don’t know you” (Matthew 25:12).
Matthew 7:24-29
24 “Every person who listens to my words and obeys them is like a wise man who built his house upon rock. 25 It rained and the river overflowed. The winds blew hard against that house, but the house did not fall, because it was founded upon rock! 26 However, every person who listens to my words and does not obey them is like a foolish man; he built his house upon sand. 27 The rain came down and the river overflowed. The winds blew hard against that house and it fell down. It was a terrible fall!” 28 And when Jesus finished saying these things, the crowds were greatly amazed at his teaching. 29 Jesus was teaching them as one having authority, not like the teachers of the law.
Two Kinds of People, 7:24-27.
[24-25] Jesus continued to talk about the importance of obedience. With the right foundation, a house is strong. The tests of the rain, wind, and river prove its strength. People who hear Christ’s words and do them are secure (James 1:25; Matthew 13:19-23).
[26-27] In contrast, a house with a weak foundation can be destroyed by the rain, wind, and the river. This is how people are who hear but do not obey Christ’s words.
Jesus Taught With Authority, 7:28-29.
[28-29] The people who heard Jesus saw the difference between Him and their religious teachers. Their Jewish teachers had to appeal to the authority of Scriptures or tradition. Jesus taught on His own authority (Matthew 28:18; John 5:27; 8:28). He had power and taught with power!
Matthew 8:1-9
8 1 When Jesus came down from the mountain, large crowds followed him. 2 Then a man with leprosy came to him. He bowed down in front of Jesus. The leper said, “Lord, you can heal me, if you want to.”
3 Jesus said, “I do want to heal you—be healed!” Then Jesus stretched out his hand and touched the man. Immediately the man’s leprosy was healed. 4 Jesus said to him, “Don’t tell anyone what happened. Go show yourself to the priest. Then give a gift to God, because you have been healed. This is what the law of Moses commands. It will prove to the priests that you are healed.” 5 Jesus went into the town of Capernaum. A Roman army officer came to him, begging him, saying, 6 “Lord, my servant is at home, sick in bed. He is crippled and suffering badly.” 7 Jesus said to him, “I will go heal him.” 8 The army officer answered, “Lord, you don’t need to come into my house. I am not good enough to be with you. You only need to give the order and my servant boy will be healed. 9 I, too, am a person under authority. And, there are soldiers below me whom I command. I can say to one, ‘Go!’ and he goes. I can say to another man, ‘Come!’ and he will come. Or, if I say to my servant, ‘Do this!’ he will do it.”