Sermon on the Mount - Session 1
Sermon on the Mount - Session 1 of 6
Verses: Matthew 5:1-12
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How to use this Bible Study
If you are in a group: Complete the sections that have a white background together. The sections with a peach background should be completed individually. Then come back together and talk about what you have read.
If you are doing a solo devotional: Read through as usual, and use the discussion questions as a journaling prompt.
Summary
This is the first of six sessions where we will talk about three chapters in Matthew that are referred to as The Sermon on the Mount. This was a long sermon thought to be given over several hours, possibly even multiple days. During the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus speaks both to his disciples and to a large crowd of people. He talks about a wide range of topics, from how to pray, divorce, pride, worship, and more.
Today’s reading is the beginning of the most famous sermon Jesus ever gave. It spans over three chapters in Matthew. It is a prescription for how to live a life that is pleasing to God.
Before You Read
In the verses we are reading today, Jesus talks a lot about righteousness. Look up, and write down the definition of righteousness:
Verses 1-12 are known as the beatitudes (pronounced “be-attitude-s”). Look up and write down the definition of BEATITUDE:
Before beginning your reading pray:
“Jesus, please give me clarity to understand the words you spoke to your followers. And to recognize the truth you need me to hear today. Amen.”
While you are reading, keep a pen and paper close by to write down:
Questions you have about words, actions or people
Things that you think are interesting
Thoughts about how you would have reacted
Connections between other Bible passages you have read before
Read Matthew 5:1-12
Where to find it: Matthew is in the New Testament. If you open your bible to the middle it will be in the right half of the book. It is between Malachi and Mark.
Which verse is most comforting to you? And which verse is most challenging to you?
Read 1 John 1:8-10
Reread Matthew 5:8
Where to find 1 John: 1 John is in the New Testament. It is a small book, just a few pages, found towards the back of your Bible. It is one of three letters written by John.
Based on these verses, what do you think it means to be pure in heart? Do you think it is even possible?
Discussion Questions
What does “being blessed” mean to you? Do you think it means something different after this reading?
Which beatitude (verse) did you find most comforting? Which was most difficult?
Ask three people to read the following verses:
Psalms 72:12-14
Isaiah 66:2
Matthew 5:3
Based on these verses what does it mean to be “poor in spirit”?
What is the theme of the beatitudes?
In verse seven, God says he shows mercy to the merciful. Why do you think treatment of others affects how God treats us?
Ask someone to read Matthew 5:10-12 out loud. How would you react if you were attacked for your faith in God? (be quiet, lie, hide, speak up, etc) Do you think you would die for your faith?
