Back to the Sermon

Good Morning!

Well, I gave you a day off … but now, back to the Sermon on the Mount. Remember, the conjecture here is that Jesus is giving a parallel to the Mount Sinai event where the Law was presented. Jesus is putting the Law into a new perspective as He explains our true relationship with God.

He has shared the basics in the Beatitudes. He has told us about our importance (salt and light). He has warned us against carrying hatred in our heart. He has taught us to pray. He has pointed out the provisions of God for our lives. So what’s next?

Matthew 7:1-6 (New International Version)
Judging Others

1 “Do not judge, or you too will be judged. 2 For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
3 “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
6 “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.

What is Jesus telling His disciples here? Remember, His primary opposition comes not from “sinners” but from the people who are the religious leaders in Jerusalem. They had taken it upon themselves to make sure that people observed the Law … of course, with a little exception here and there for those in the know. Jesus wants His disciples to walk circumspectly … that is, to be aware of their own shortcomings so they can seek forgiveness from God. That is why He gave us the teaching in verses 3-5. I heard a preacher once say that the speck and the plank are the same size … it is just one is close up, the other far away. It is a matter of perspective.

Now does Jesus mean that we are NEVER to judge? I don’t think so. We have to make critical judgments every day … and that is a healthy exercise. But we aren’t to establish ourselves as the “authority” … that position belongs to Christ Jesus, our Lord. In fact, if I see a brother or sister in trouble, I am supposed to help out – not point out.

So what about that sixth verse? Jesus understood that His teachings were so radical that some of the folks would never accept them. He knew that many in the religious community would take His teachings and twist them against Him. You know, it isn’t so different today. Far too often, those who oppose Christ will pervert the message – picking and choosing the parts they want to ridicule – omitting the truth. So there are times that it is wise to keep the message close.

Well, there are just a few more verses and then we will move on. Let me know what you think. It is always helpful to have your input.

Agape’


Mr. Jim