I am catching up on Pastor Beau Floyd’s sermon series in the book of Matthew.  In four recent sermons, he taught Matthew 5:38-6:18.  The words of Jesus convict our sinful hearts, draw us to Himself, and transform us by His gospel grace.

Observation

1. Where does it say in the Old Testament, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth”?
2. Where does it say to “Love your neighbor and hate your enemy?”
3. How do hypocrites give their money?
4. How does Jesus want us to give to the needy?
5. How do hypocrites pray?
6. What does the Lord teach us about prayer? What is the Lord’s prayer?
7. If one is to fast, Jesus states to do it in what way?

Interpretation

1. How would a Jew in Jesus’ day be forced to go a mile?
2. What does it mean to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect?
3. Does Jesus already assume that you are giving, praying, and fasting? How did 1^st century Jews practice these spiritual activities?
4. How does the Lord who sees in secret reward those who seek Him in giving, praying, and fasting?

Application

1. Upon the recommendation of another ministry family, I watched the movie, The Scarlet and Black. It is a remarkable true story on loving one’s enemies.
2. What would God want you to do this week for your enemy?
3. How do you seek to be made perfect in love this week?
4. Has the Spirit nudged your heart to give to someone in need?
5. What are best heart motives for giving to others?
6. How do you manifest the grace disciplines of giving, praying, and fasting?
7. When is it ok to publicly give, pray, or fast? Does your church family practice some of these activities corporately?
8. What would motivate you to fast?