Book of Matthew – Matthew Chapter 5 Summary

Quick Chapter Summary

Chapter 5 of Matthew consists entirely of Jesus teaching his disciples. It is often referred to as the ‘Sermon on the Mount’.

1. Jesus heads up a mountain to ministry to His disciples.
2. He begins with the Beattitudes…”Blessed are _______ for they will _____.”:
   1. The Poor in Spirit receive the Kingdom of Heaven.
   2. Those who morn receive comfort.
   3. The meek will inherit the earth.
   4. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness will be filled.
   5. The merciful will be shown mercy.
   6. Those pure in heart will see God.
   7. Peacemakers will be called sons of God.
   8. Those who are persecuted and falsely accused for Jesus’ sake will receive a great reward in Heaven.
3. Jesus compares the disciples to salt. Salt adds flavor and preservation.
4. He calls them a light of the world and compares them to a city on a hill, telling them to shine as a light before men to lead them to God.
5. Jesus explains that He is here to fulfill the law, not to eliminate it. It is still to be practiced and taught in it’s entirety.
6. Jesus uses a ‘nip it in the bud’ approach to sin in verses 21-37:
   1. If you find yourself angry at someone, settle the matter before things escalate. This will prevent things from coming to murder and prison. It also separates you from being able to worship God with your whole being.
   2. He likens lusting is the same as committing adultery in your heart.
   3. If part of you causes you to sin, remove it.
   4. If anyone divorces (except for reasons of unfaithfulness), they are committing adultery.
   5. Making oaths is a dangerous thing. Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No’.
7. Jesus challenges the disciples to go beyond the old testament law of an ‘Eye for an eye’, ‘Tooth for a tooth.’ He says to turn the other cheek to an enemy that strikes you and walk two miles with someone that asks you to walk one.
8. Jesus last point is to Love your enemies. He’s challenging the disciples to strive for the perfection of the Father in love and forgiveness.

Full Chapter Summary

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Full Text Matthew Chapter 5