Study Lesson
Read slowly, check the biblical text and take time to reflect.
Jesus describes a different kind of life
Matthew 5–7 gathers teaching that reaches beneath outward behaviour to the desires, loyalties and habits of the heart. Jesus calls disciples to a righteousness that is visible in mercy, truthfulness, reconciliation, generosity, prayer and trust.
The Beatitudes
Begin with Matthew 5:1–12. The Beatitudes are not a ladder for earning God’s favour. They describe the surprising blessedness of people who belong to God’s kingdom and depend upon him.
Salt and light
Christian witness is both distinctive and public. Salt is useful because it is different from what surrounds it; light is useful because it can be seen. Jesus joins holy character with visible good works that direct honour toward the Father.
Integrity from the heart
The examples about anger, lust, truthfulness and love of enemies show that discipleship cannot be reduced to technical rule-keeping. Jesus addresses the roots from which harmful actions grow.
Prayer and trust
Matthew 6 turns attention away from performance before others and toward the Father who sees in secret. The Lord’s Prayer gives a pattern shaped by God’s name, kingdom, daily provision, forgiveness and deliverance.
Discussion questions
- Which Beatitude challenges your instincts most?
- What is the difference between public witness and religious performance?
- Where is Jesus inviting deeper heart-level integrity?
- How could the Lord’s Prayer shape your prayers this week?