SERMON ON THE MOUNT

The Sermon on the Mount is one of Jesus Christ’s most famous sermons in the New Testament. It is a compilation of sayings and teachings given by Jesus to his followers and the people gathered to hear him speak. The discourse is recorded in Matthew’s Gospel, chapters 5-7.

The lecture opens with the Beatitudes, a set of blessings that describe the characteristics of individuals who are blessed in the kingdom of heaven, such as those who are poor in spirit, humble, and charitable. Jesus then addresses a variety of issues, including love for adversaries, prayer, fasting, money, and judgment.

Jesus urges his followers to love and pray for those who persecute them in the section on love for enemies, saying, “Love your foes and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:44-45). He also encourages his audience to turn the other cheek rather than retaliate when someone strikes them.

Jesus then instructs his followers on prayer, advising them not to pray for show or to repeat the same phrases over and over. Instead, he instructs them to pray in private and in basic, emotional language.

The classic doctrine, “You cannot serve God and money,” is included in the section on wealth (Matthew 6:24). Jesus warns his people against storing up goods on earth, where they might be destroyed, and instead encourages them to store up treasures in heaven.

The message finishes with a word of caution and a call to action. “Small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few discover it,” Jesus tells his audience (Matthew 7:14). He also advises students to be sensible builders, constructing their lives on solid ground rather than sand.

Overall, the Sermon on the Mount is a strong message that highlights the value of humility, love, and righteousness. Today, its lessons continue to inspire and challenge individuals all across the world.