Hatred and Love

The Sermon on the Mount would certainly be one of the most familiar teachings of Jesus. It is often referred to in various literary writings and political speeches, and those who embrace religions other than Christianity frequently quote it. I would even assume that that when an unbeliever decides to read his Bible, he probably turns to Matthew’s Gospel, and before too long he is reading the Sermon on the Mount. The Sermon on the Mount opens with the “beatitudes” which give the key to understanding the sermon. These beatitudes describe the very likeness of Jesus Christ Himself as the necessary qualities required of all who are members of the Kingdom of God. These qualities do not cause salvation, but are the evidence of salvation once accomplished.
We are again examining the words of Jesus when he says, “You have heard it said… but I say unto you...” We previously examined anger and murder, lust and adultery, divorce and remarriage. integrity and speech, and love and justice. Tonight we examine hatred and love. How is a citizen of the Kingdom to behave toward an adversary, even an enemy? As subjects in the kingdom of God we must listen carefully to the words of Jesus as He defines our obligations in such real world situations. We must heed His instructions if we desire not to be embarrassed when we come before Him.
A course notebook for this series is available at a nominal charge, on request.