Above and Beyond

Review

Last week we learned about the power of promise.

We were challenged to keep our promises and chose our words carefully.

Did you do it?

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Introduction

Today we are going to learn about going above and beyond.

If everyone did the bare minimum, how could Christians be set apart from others?

We do all things for the glory of God! That means doing our best and not just what is asked of us.

Handouts

Passage

Christian Standard Bible Chapter 5

GO THE SECOND MILE

38 “You have heard that it was said, An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.,

39 But I tell you, don’t resist an evildoer. On the contrary, if anyone slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.

40 As for the one who wants to sue you and take away your shirt, let him have your coat as well.

41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two.

42 Give to the one who asks you, and don’t turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.

Main Points

1) Christians honor God by being blameless before others.

People are watching you whether you know it or not.

When you are faced with challenges, people watch to see how a “Christian” is going to operate.

Will you function like the rest of the world? Or will you be different?

When Jesus was carrying the cross to His death, He was spat on, mocked, and abused.

Did He fight back? No.

If someone hits you in school, and you do not hit them back, you will be found blameless before the authorities.

It takes more strength to swallow our pride and take the blow than it does to fight back.

But the devil wants to slander you, a Christian, before others so that they will see that you are no different.

2) Christians glorify God by giving more than what is asked of them.

If someone asks you for cocoa, ask if they’d like marshmallows too.

If someone asks for a snack, offer them something to drink as well.

When your folks ask you to clean your room, you might shout, “Fine!” and do it.

Will your parents be happy with such a response? How does God see this?

What if, when asked to clean, you instead responded, “Sure! What else can I help with?”

How do you think they would feel then? How would God see this?

3) Christians demonstrate their love for God and others by helping those in need.

Why do babies cry?

When we were in need, someone took care of us!

Raise your right hand and hold your breath for as long as you can.

We are needy creatures! We need air, food, water, rest, otherwise we die!

Application

The principle of this passage is to trust God for justice.

This week I will give to those in need and trust God to deal with my enemies.