Matthew 5
BSB1 When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain and sat down. His disciples came to Him, 2 and He began to teach them, saying: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. 6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. 10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you. 13 You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its savor, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. 14 You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a basket. Instead, they set it on a stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. 17 Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them. 18 For I tell you truly, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. 19 So then, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do likewise will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever practices and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 21 You have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not murder’ and ‘Anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, ‘Raca,’ will be subject to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be subject to the fire of hell. 23 So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. 25 Reconcile quickly with your adversary, while you are still on the way to court. Otherwise, he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. 26 Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. 27 You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’ 28 But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman to lust after her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. 30 And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to depart into hell. 31 It has also been said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.’ 32 But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, brings adultery upon her. And he who marries a divorced woman commits adultery. 33 Again, you have heard that it was said to the ancients, ‘Do not break your oath, but fulfill your vows to the Lord.’ 34 But I tell you not to swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 or by the earth, for it is His footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 Nor should you swear by your head, for you cannot make a single hair white or black. 37 Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ Anything more comes from the evil one. 38 You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ 39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also; 40 if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well; 41 and if someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. 43 You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor’ and ‘Hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Do not even tax collectors do the same? 47 And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even Gentiles do the same? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Study Notes — Matthew 5
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Matthew 5
- Themes from Matthew 5
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Matthew 5
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Matthew 5 begins with the beatitudes, where Jesus describes the characteristics of those who are blessed, including the poor in spirit, those who mourn, and the meek. He then teaches about the law, stating that He came to fulfill it, not abolish it. Jesus also discusses the importance of righteousness, exceeding that of the scribes and Pharisees. He teaches about anger, lust, divorce, and oaths, emphasizing the need for integrity and honesty. The chapter concludes with Jesus' teachings on loving one's enemies and being perfect as God is perfect, referencing Matthew 5:48.
Context for the Chapter
Matthew 5 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, which is a collection of Jesus' teachings in Matthew 5-7. This chapter sets the tone for Jesus' ministry, emphasizing the importance of humility, mercy, and righteousness. It also highlights the contrast between the old covenant and the new covenant, with Jesus as the fulfillment of the law. The Sermon on the Mount is a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry, as it provides a foundation for His teachings and sets the stage for the rest of the Gospel of Matthew.
Heart Application
As we read Matthew 5, we are called to reflect on our own lives and to consider how we can apply Jesus' teachings to our daily experiences. We are called to be salt and light, to love our enemies, and to be perfect as God is perfect. We are also called to examine our own righteousness and to consider how we can exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees, as seen in Matthew 5:20.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Matthew 5 is a chapter about Jesus' teachings on the kingdom of heaven, the beatitudes, and the law. He emphasizes the importance of humility, mercy, and righteousness, and He calls His followers to be salt and light in the world. As seen in Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus is the light of the world, and His followers are called to reflect that light.
Voices from the Church
“The beatitudes are a description of the Christian life, and they provide a foundation for our understanding of what it means to follow Jesus.”
— John Calvin
“The law is a mirror that reveals our sin, but it is also a guide that shows us the way to righteousness. Jesus' teachings in Matthew 5 emphasize the importance of obeying the law and exceeding the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees.”
— Charles Spurgeon
Outline for Preaching
- The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12) — The beatitudes describe the characteristics of those who are blessed, including the poor in spirit, those who mourn, and the meek.
- The Importance of Righteousness (Matthew 5:13-20) — Jesus emphasizes the importance of righteousness, stating that one's righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees.
- Teachings on Anger and Lust (Matthew 5:21-30) — Jesus teaches about the importance of controlling one's anger and lust, emphasizing the need for integrity and honesty.
- Teachings on Divorce and Oaths (Matthew 5:31-37) — Jesus teaches about the importance of integrity and honesty in one's relationships and interactions with others.
- Loving One's Enemies (Matthew 5:38-48) — Jesus teaches about loving one's enemies and being perfect as God is perfect, emphasizing the importance of love and compassion.
Core Doctrines
- The Fulfillment of the Law
- Matthew 5:17-20 teaches that Jesus came to fulfill the law, not abolish it. This is a central doctrine of Christianity, emphasizing Jesus' role as the fulfiller of the law and the prophets.
- The Importance of Righteousness
- Matthew 5:20 emphasizes the importance of righteousness, stating that one's righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees. This is a key doctrine of Christianity, highlighting the need for personal righteousness and obedience to God's law.
- The Beatitudes
- The beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12 describe the characteristics of those who are blessed, and they provide a foundation for our understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. This is a central doctrine of Christianity, emphasizing the importance of humility, mercy, and righteousness.
- Loving One's Enemies
- Matthew 5:38-48 teaches about loving one's enemies and being perfect as God is perfect, emphasizing the importance of love and compassion. This is a key doctrine of Christianity, highlighting the need for love and forgiveness in our relationships with others.
Lessons from Matthew 5
- The Importance of Humility — The beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12 emphasize the importance of humility, teaching that those who are poor in spirit and meek will be blessed.
- The Need for Righteousness — Matthew 5:20 emphasizes the importance of righteousness, stating that one's righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees.
- The Power of Love and Forgiveness — Matthew 5:38-48 teaches about loving one's enemies and being perfect as God is perfect, emphasizing the importance of love and compassion.
- The Importance of Integrity and Honesty — Jesus' teachings on anger, lust, divorce, and oaths emphasize the need for integrity and honesty in our relationships and interactions with others.
- The Call to Be Salt and Light — Matthew 5:13-16 calls believers to be salt and light in the world, reflecting the light of Christ to a world in darkness.
Themes from Matthew 5
- The Kingdom of Heaven — Matthew 5 teaches about the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing the importance of humility, mercy, and righteousness.
- The Fulfillment of the Law — Matthew 5:17-20 teaches that Jesus came to fulfill the law, not abolish it, highlighting His role as the fulfiller of the law and the prophets.
- The Importance of Righteousness — Matthew 5:20 emphasizes the importance of righteousness, stating that one's righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees.
- Loving One's Enemies — Matthew 5:38-48 teaches about loving one's enemies and being perfect as God is perfect, emphasizing the importance of love and compassion.
- The Call to Be Salt and Light — Matthew 5:13-16 calls believers to be salt and light in the world, reflecting the light of Christ to a world in darkness.
Questions for Meditation
- What are the characteristics of those who are blessed, according to the beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12?
- How does Jesus' teaching on the law in Matthew 5:17-20 relate to our understanding of the old and new covenants?
- What does it mean to be salt and light in the world, according to Matthew 5:13-16?
- How can we apply Jesus' teachings on anger and lust to our daily lives, as seen in Matthew 5:21-30?
- What does it mean to love one's enemies, according to Matthew 5:38-48?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12)
| 5:1 | Jesus sees the crowds and goes up on a mountain to teach them, emphasizing the importance of humility and meekness. |
| 5:2 | Jesus begins to teach the crowds, describing the characteristics of those who are blessed. |
| 5:3 | The first beatitude describes those who are poor in spirit, emphasizing the importance of humility. |
| 5:4 | The second beatitude describes those who mourn, emphasizing the importance of compassion and empathy. |
| 5:5 | The third beatitude describes the meek, emphasizing the importance of gentleness and humility. |
| 5:6 | The fourth beatitude describes those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, emphasizing the importance of seeking justice and righteousness. |
| 5:7 | The fifth beatitude describes the merciful, emphasizing the importance of showing mercy and compassion to others. |
| 5:8 | The sixth beatitude describes the pure in heart, emphasizing the importance of integrity and honesty. |
| 5:9 | The seventh beatitude describes the peacemakers, emphasizing the importance of seeking peace and reconciliation. |
| 5:10 | The eighth beatitude describes those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, emphasizing the importance of standing up for what is right even in the face of opposition. |
| 5:11 | Jesus teaches that those who are persecuted for His sake will be blessed, emphasizing the importance of following Him even in the face of persecution. |
| 5:12 | Jesus concludes the beatitudes by emphasizing the importance of rejoicing in persecution, knowing that it is a sign of being blessed. |
2. The Importance of Righteousness (Matthew 5:13-20)
| 5:13 | Jesus teaches that His followers are the salt of the earth, emphasizing the importance of being a positive influence in the world. |
| 5:14 | Jesus teaches that His followers are the light of the world, emphasizing the importance of reflecting the light of Christ to a world in darkness. |
| 5:15 | Jesus teaches that a city on a hill cannot be hidden, emphasizing the importance of being a visible witness for Christ. |
| 5:16 | Jesus teaches that His followers should let their light shine before others, emphasizing the importance of being a positive influence in the world. |
| 5:17 | Jesus teaches that He came to fulfill the law, not abolish it, emphasizing His role as the fulfiller of the law and the prophets. |
| 5:18 | Jesus teaches that not one jot or tittle will pass from the law until all is accomplished, emphasizing the importance of obeying the law. |
| 5:19 | Jesus teaches that whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing the importance of obeying the law. |
| 5:20 | Jesus teaches that one's righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of personal righteousness and obedience to God's law. |
3. Teachings on Anger and Lust (Matthew 5:21-30)
| 5:21 | Jesus teaches that whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment, emphasizing the importance of controlling one's anger. |
| 5:22 | Jesus teaches that whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council, emphasizing the importance of watching one's words. |
| 5:23 | Jesus teaches that if one is offering a gift to God and remembers that his brother has something against him, he should leave his gift and be reconciled to his brother, emphasizing the importance of seeking reconciliation. |
| 5:24 | Jesus teaches that one should leave his gift and be reconciled to his brother before offering the gift to God, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing relationships. |
| 5:25 | Jesus teaches that one should come to terms with his accuser quickly, emphasizing the importance of resolving conflicts quickly. |
| 5:26 | Jesus teaches that one will not come out of prison until he has paid the last penny, emphasizing the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions. |
| 5:27 | Jesus teaches that whoever looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart, emphasizing the importance of controlling one's thoughts and desires. |
| 5:28 | Jesus teaches that if one's right eye causes him to sin, he should tear it out, emphasizing the importance of taking drastic measures to avoid sin. |
| 5:29 | Jesus teaches that if one's right hand causes him to sin, he should cut it off, emphasizing the importance of taking drastic measures to avoid sin. |
| 5:30 | Jesus teaches that it is better to lose one's life than to sin, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing one's relationship with God. |
4. Teachings on Divorce and Oaths (Matthew 5:31-37)
| 5:31 | Jesus teaches that whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another commits adultery, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness in marriage. |
| 5:32 | Jesus teaches that whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness in marriage. |
| 5:33 | Jesus teaches that one should not swear falsely, emphasizing the importance of honesty and integrity. |
| 5:34 | Jesus teaches that one should not swear at all, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and honesty in one's words. |
| 5:35 | Jesus teaches that one's yes should be yes and one's no should be no, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and honesty in one's words. |
| 5:36 | Jesus teaches that one should not swear by his head, emphasizing the importance of humility and simplicity. |
| 5:37 | Jesus teaches that one should let his yes be yes and his no be no, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and honesty in one's words. |
5. Loving One's Enemies (Matthew 5:38-48)
| 5:38 | Jesus teaches that one should not resist an evil person, emphasizing the importance of nonviolence and forgiveness. |
| 5:39 | Jesus teaches that if one is struck on the right cheek, he should turn the other cheek, emphasizing the importance of nonviolence and forgiveness. |
| 5:40 | Jesus teaches that if one is sued and his cloak is taken, he should give his tunic as well, emphasizing the importance of generosity and forgiveness. |
| 5:41 | Jesus teaches that if one is forced to go one mile, he should go two miles, emphasizing the importance of going the extra mile in serving others. |
| 5:42 | Jesus teaches that one should give to him who asks and lend to him who borrows, emphasizing the importance of generosity and kindness. |
| 5:43 | Jesus teaches that one should love his neighbor and hate his enemy, emphasizing the importance of loving those who are close to us. |
| 5:44 | Jesus teaches that one should love his enemies and pray for those who persecute him, emphasizing the importance of loving those who are far from us. |
| 5:45 | Jesus teaches that one should be perfect as God is perfect, emphasizing the importance of striving for perfection in our relationships with others. |
| 5:46 | Jesus teaches that if one loves only those who love him, what reward will he have, emphasizing the importance of loving those who do not love us. |
| 5:47 | Jesus teaches that if one greets only his brothers, what more is he doing than others, emphasizing the importance of going the extra mile in serving others. |
| 5:48 | Jesus teaches that one should be perfect as God is perfect, emphasizing the importance of striving for perfection in our relationships with others. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the beatitudes in Matthew 5?
The beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12 describe the characteristics of those who are blessed, and they provide a foundation for our understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. They emphasize the importance of humility, mercy, and righteousness.
How does Jesus' teaching on the law in Matthew 5 relate to our understanding of the old and new covenants?
Jesus' teaching on the law in Matthew 5:17-20 emphasizes that He came to fulfill the law, not abolish it. This highlights His role as the fulfiller of the law and the prophets, and it provides a foundation for our understanding of the relationship between the old and new covenants.
What does it mean to be salt and light in the world, according to Matthew 5:13-16?
To be salt and light in the world means to be a positive influence in the world, reflecting the light of Christ to a world in darkness. It means to be a source of hope, joy, and redemption in a world that is often filled with darkness and despair.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matthew 5:17 → Isaiah 61:1-2 | Jesus' teaching on the law in Matthew 5:17-20 is connected to Isaiah 61:1-2, where the prophet speaks of the coming Messiah who will bring salvation and redemption to humanity. |
| 2 | Matthew 5:21 → Exodus 20:12 | Jesus' teaching on anger in Matthew 5:21-22 is connected to Exodus 20:12, where the commandment to honor one's parents is given. |
| 3 | Matthew 5:27 → Leviticus 18:20 | Jesus' teaching on lust in Matthew 5:27-28 is connected to Leviticus 18:20, where the commandment against adultery is given. |
| 4 | Matthew 5:31 → Deuteronomy 24:1-4 | Jesus' teaching on divorce in Matthew 5:31-32 is connected to Deuteronomy 24:1-4, where the law regarding divorce is given. |
| 5 | Matthew 5:38 → Exodus 21:24 | Jesus' teaching on nonviolence in Matthew 5:38-42 is connected to Exodus 21:24, where the law of retaliation is given. |
| 6 | Matthew 5:43 → Leviticus 19:18 | Jesus' teaching on loving one's enemies in Matthew 5:43-48 is connected to Leviticus 19:18, where the commandment to love one's neighbor is given. |
| 7 | Matthew 5:48 → Genesis 17:1 | Jesus' teaching on being perfect in Matthew 5:48 is connected to Genesis 17:1, where God commands Abraham to be blameless. |
| 8 | Matthew 5:1-12 → Psalm 37:11 | The beatitudes in Matthew 5:1-12 are connected to Psalm 37:11, where the meek are promised that they will inherit the earth. |
| 9 | Matthew 5:13-16 → Isaiah 58:8 | Jesus' teaching on being salt and light in Matthew 5:13-16 is connected to Isaiah 58:8, where the prophet speaks of the light of God's people shining in the world. |
| 10 | Matthew 5:21-30 → Proverbs 15:1 | Jesus' teaching on anger and lust in Matthew 5:21-30 is connected to Proverbs 15:1, where the importance of controlling one's words and actions is emphasized. |
Sermons on Matthew 5
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Hells Best Kept Secret by Ray Comfort | In this sermon, the speaker discusses his approach to sharing the gospel with others. He starts by engaging in casual conversation about everyday topics like weather and sports to |
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1 Cor 13 (Version 1) by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal anecdote about his experience with his children and a tennis game. He then transitions to discussing the concept of love, specifically |
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Reading From the Beatitudes by D.L. Moody | D.L. Moody emphasizes the profound blessings found in the Beatitudes, particularly focusing on the comfort promised to those who mourn and the meek. He explains that mourning signi |
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(1 Peter - Part 27): Who Is He That Will Harm You? by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher describes the physical deterioration of a man who is nearing death. Despite his weakened state, the preacher emphasizes that the devil and death cannot |
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Door of Repentance by Corrie Ten Boom | In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of being in a prison and connecting with a man who was afraid of being whipped. Through love and sharing the word of God, t |
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Repentance in Kansas City by Andrew Strom | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the state of Christian meetings and how they often fail to truly impact people. He emphasizes the need for authenticity and a genuine encoun |
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(1 Peter - Part 22): Our Walk in the Presence of the Unsaved by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living an honest and upright life among non-believers. He highlights that God never gives us instructions to live without |
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"Where Are the Praying People?" by David Wilkerson | This sermon emphasizes the speaker's strong desire to remain separate from the sinful influences of the world, committing to prayer, Bible reading, and standing against immorality. |
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Be Ye Holy by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the demand for perfect holiness from God. He explains that there are three ways people respond to this call to be holy. The first response is |
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God's Dealing With Me - Part 2 by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the pastor shares his personal experiences and the impact of God's work in his life. He mentions a powerful message he preached and the warm spirit in the Sunday mo |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Matthew 5
Matthew 5 is a chapter that provides a foundation for our understanding of the Christian life. The beatitudes describe the characteristics of those who are blessed, and they provide a foundation for our understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. Jesus' teaching on the law emphasizes that He came to fulfill it, not abolish it, and this highlights His role as the fulfiller of the law and the prophets. The chapter concludes with Jesus' teachings on loving one's enemies and being perfect as God is perfect, emphasizing the importance of love and compassion. As Matthew Henry notes, this chapter provides a comprehensive overview of the Christian life, emphasizing the importance of humility, mercy, and righteousness. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Beatitudes
The beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-12 describe the characteristics of those who are blessed, and they provide a unique perspective on what it means to be fortunate or happy. This is also connected to Matthew 5:13-16, where Jesus teaches about being salt and light.
The Importance of Righteousness
Jesus emphasizes the importance of righteousness in Matthew 5:20, stating that one's righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees. This is also seen in Matthew 5:17-20, where Jesus teaches about fulfilling the law.
The Contrast between Old and New
Matthew 5 highlights the contrast between the old covenant and the new covenant, with Jesus as the fulfillment of the law. This is seen in Matthew 5:17-20 and Matthew 5:21-48, where Jesus teaches about the law and its fulfillment.