Matthew 5: 17-26

RE: The Fulfillment of the Law

1.  Who or what are the Law and the Prophets? What does it mean when Christ says that He came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets?

--Suggested readings: Luke 16: 16, 17

                                  Galations 3: 10,11,23, 25

                                    Matthew 7:12

2. What is your definition of legalism?

3. The word hypocrite comes from the Greek word, hypokrites, or actor. Why is it an act to keep God's Commandments externally while breaking them internally?

RE: Murder

1. Christ begins verse 21 with, "You have heard that it was said," and starts verse 22 with "But I tell you that..."

    --Why is Jesus making this distinction?

2. In your own words, explain why God would feel that hating your brother is a sin that has a judgement comparable to that of murder.

3. If you call your neighbor a bad name or for instance, call him or her a "loser," what are you saying about the Creator that created that person in His own image?

4. Do you know anybody who is upset with you or angry with you? Is there anyone that has something against you? What does God's Word say that you should do about it? (See Mt. 5:23-26)

What will you do this week as a result of Jesus' clear command? 

Connection Group building activity: I would encourage each member to share a plan of action before they leave and purposefully open up the next connection group sharing what was accomplished.

Matthew 5: 17-26

Teacher: Paul Sabino

 

Matthew 5: 1-16

Review Matthew 4:17 before opening your discussion today.

How does the theme of repentance apply to the "Kingdom of God" and the Beatitudes?

-- Are those that make heart-level changes in their life truly blessed?

RE: the Beatitudes

1. What does it mean to be “poor in Spirit?”

2. In your opinion, does “meek” mean “weak?” If that is the case, how would the meek inherit the earth from the “strong?”

3. Share examples of how one would be “persecuted because of their righteousness.”

How would our persecution be seen by those that are persecuting us?

RE: Salt and Light

1. What are some ways to be “salt” in the lives of your family? Coworkers?

2. What are some ways in which we hide our “light?”

3. Why should your good deeds reflect your Father in Heaven?

Matthew 5: 1-16

Teacher: Troy Nesbitt

Introduction to "Kingdom Manifesto."

Greetings!

“Jesus’ longest recorded sermon, often called the Sermon on the Mount, is regarded by many as His Kingdom Manifesto. 

According to the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, a manifesto is a public declaration of intentions, opinions, objectives, or motives, as one issued by a government, sovereign, or organization. The words contained in this sermon “amazed the crowds” who first heard them. This “new wine” burst the old wine skins of the religious crowd and drew in unbelievers with its bold simplicity. Jesus still speaks today through these words, inviting us to hear His words and put them into practice.”

As you know, at Cornerstone our goal is to connect people to God through Jesus Christ in authentic faith. We believe that the connection groups are a fantastic way of showing others that you value Jesus' words and that you wish to put them into practice.

Over the next 3-4 months, I will post questions on this site that should stimulate discussion in your connection groups and foster a better awareness of the Kingdom Manifesto. Together, we will strive to be a “city on a hill that can not be hidden.”

Sincerely,

Jacob Varghese

Regional Ministry Director