Lesson 4 – Identity & Interpretation

Jesus has been speaking to those that will hear him from a mountain somewhere near Capernaum. He has just shown them the way of blessing and true happiness, now he gives some more revelations concerning those who would be a part of the Kingdom of God. The Beattitudes describe the type of people the sermon that follows is for. In this next section Jesus first Identifies who they are, what they are like, and what they do, and then Jesus gives an interpretation to the law.

I. Identity 13-16

a. Identified as

i. Salt

ii. Light

b. Shows who they are

i. They who listen to Jesus

c. Shows what they do

i. Season, irritates, heals, preserves

1. Dr. Hovind, “Salt is an irritant, go irritate someone”

ii. Draws attention to the light Jesus gives, and lights other’s way are not afraid to share.

II. Interpretation of the law 17-48

a. Did not come to do away with the law or the prophets

i. This is possibly based on accusations similar to those found in other places where Jesus was asked why his disciples did not wash their hands, why he healed on the Sabbath, etc.

1. These were not breaking the commands of God, but of men.

b. Establishes he came to fulfill ALL the law

i. Did not bring some new way of righteousness or salvation, only fulfilled what was already in types and shadows

c. None would pass away, till all be fulfilled

i. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Matt 5:18 NIV

1. Warning to break even a little one and to teach others to do so would be called least in kingdom of heaven

2. Blessing to those who kept and taught even the least of these commandments, they would be great in the kingdom of heaven

3. Instructs that unless our righteousness exceeded the scribes and Pharisees, there would be no entrance into the kingdom of heaven

ii. Jesus fulfilled all the Moral law –was sinless in every way. He fulfilled the law So perfectly that he could ask, “Joh 8:46 Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? and leave them speechless.

iii. Jesus fulfilled the law by filling in gaps and loopholes

iv. Jesus fulfilled it by satisfying not only the demands of the law but the prophecies, sacrifices, and offerings as well.

d. The law explained and expounded

i. Anger is Murder 21-24

ii. Lust is adultery 26-30

iii. Divorce & Remarriage 31- 32

iv. Don’t Swear 33-37

v. Christ like Spirit 38- 42

vi. Loving Enemies 43-48