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Observing the crowds Jesus went up into the mountains and after he reclined his disciples approached him. And Jesus opened his mouth and began teaching them.
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose Matthew 5:1, 2 as the theme verses of chapter five – The Sermon on the Mount. Jesus speaks to the gathered crowd, describing those blessed with divine favor. [1-12] He compares his disciples to salt and light and exhorts them to shine among humankind. [13-16] The Nazarene rabbi begins to comment on the Torah or Law of Moses. [17-20]
Christ first comments on Exodus 20:13 and the relationship of hate to murder. [21-26] Then he comments on Exodus 20:14 and how desire leads to adultery. [27-30] Jesus comments on Deuteronomy 24:1 and the only proper reason to divorce a woman. [31, 32] Numbers 30:3 and the matter of vows and oaths is his next subject. [33-37] Using Exodus 21:24 the Nazarene teaches on the need to yield passively to wicked authority. [38-42] Last in chapter five Jesus comments on Leviticus 19:18 and love of neighbor. [43-47] This theme is continued in the following chapters.
Abba our Father bless those who love their enemies.
[15 October 2002]
