The Sermon on the Mount represents one in every of the few times Jesus didn’t teach in parables. Instead, he taught the group directly. While absolutely stating that he didn’t come to abolish the law or the prophets but somewhat to satisfy them (Matthew 5:17) – Jesus appeared to raise the bar to an unattainable level significantly:
“You have heard it said, you shall not murder – but I let you know, anyone who’s even indignant with a brother or sister has committed murder in his heart.” – Matthew 5:21-22 (paraphrase)
The era through which Jesus got here to earth was stuffed with hate for one’s enemies, yet Jesus sought to vary that attitude:
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I let you know, love your enemies and pray for individuals who persecute you, that it’s possible you’ll be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the great, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you’re keen on those that love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?” – Matthew 5:43-46
In his mercy and beauty, God gave us an answer – out of our sinful lives and into everlasting life with him. Through his sacrifice on the cross, Jesus gave us the means to be reconciled to God and to revive a loving relationship with him. Yet we usually are not mindless drones – forced to do his bidding and live our lives like robots. We have the power to decide on. We can select good over evil. We can select right over flawed. We have chosen to live like Christ.
Throughout his ministry, Jesus was mocked and suffered intimidation and harassment. But upon his arrest, Jesus told his disciples: “Do you think that I cannot call on my Father, and he’ll directly put at my disposal greater than twelve legions of angels?” (Matthew 26:53) Then, as he was tortured and whipped by the Roman soldiers, and as he held on the cross, he was mocked and spit on. Yet, what was his response? Not protest (Isaiah 53:7) – but as an alternative, forgiveness.
“And Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.'”- Luke 23:34 ESV
As disciples of Christ, we’re to be imitators of Christ. When we encounter mockery, persecution, ridicule, or personal attacks, we’re called to reply in joy, patience, and the love of Jesus Christ. Human beings can do no everlasting harm to us – they’ll harm only our worldly pride and pleasure. We are to maintain our eyes focused on the great Lord – and, together with his strength, respond with joy, patience, love, and gentleness.
The unbelieving world may – and can – laugh and make fun of our commitment, but make no mistake: God is pleased when his followers live in obedience to him. His desire is that we use that obedience to achieve others with the saving knowledge of the Gospel message – that he sent his son Jesus Christ to search out and save the lost.
Let us never let our own interests, our own pride, or the ridicule and mockery of others snuff out the sunshine of truth—the reality of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
“A recent command I provide you with: Love each other. As I actually have loved you, so it’s essential to love each other. By this everyone will know that you simply are my disciples when you love each other.” – John 13:34-35
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Greg doesn’t pretend to be a pastor, a theologian, or a Bible expert, but offers the attitude of an on a regular basis guy on the identical journey as everyone else – in pursuit of truth.
Greg might be reached by email or on Facebook @ Greg Grandchamp – Author.
