Teaching Missions: Growing in God’s Grace

Matthew 5:38-48 Not an eye for an eye, but pray and bless your enemies

Jesus prayed for his persecutors from the cross. We are not to seek revenge but pray for our persecutors like God does bless both just and unjust, though he will eventually judge all and all sin will be paid for...

True Freedom in Christ or Slavery to Sin?

We are slaves to sin leading to eternal destruction, and many tempt us to do whatevery we want. But true freedom comes when we submit to the right master, Jesus Christ, rather than place ourselves in slavery to our old sin nature.

Matthew 5:33-37 We are to speak only the truth without oaths

Some try to make their statements seem more true because they swear with an oath, but Jesus tells us just to tell the truth - He who is the truth, and we are indwelt by the spirit of truth.

Matthew 5:31-32 No frivolous divorce

Why to divorce is controversial, but the main reason is sexual immorality and divorce should not be undertaken lightly.

Matthew 5:27-30 No lustful looking

Adultery starts in the heart, and God judges lustful looking and doing. Pornography is sin

Matthew 5:21-26 Control your anger

Our anger is the beginning of murder. We need to control our anger and make peace quickly

Matthew 5:17-20 Every word of God is important

Even the smallest parts of God's Words will be fulfilled; Jesus fulfilled many himself.

Matthew 5:10-12 and I Peter 4:12-19 Persecution for righteousness sake

Satan, the God of this world, will persecute the Christian because of his faith, but we should rejoice and not lose heart, because great rewards await us in heaven. 

Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness sake

We can expect rewards in heaven when we suffer persecution for righteousness sake.

Matthew 5:7-9 5-7th beatitudes

Blessed are those of a pure heart, which only God can give. We should show mercy and will receive mercy from God. We should strive not only to live at peace but to make peace.