Big Idea - If we were to spell out the “Big Idea” of the Sermon on the Mount it would be that Jesus came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets not to abolish them, therefore, to be His disciple and live under His Kingdom rule we must also be committed to fulfilling the true purpose and heart of the law. In the Sermon Jesus correctly interprets the Law and spells out what it looks like to live up to its standard. It must be a righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees - more than simply external compliance, it must be the very righteousness of Christ, not by our own doing, but by His grace. But, Jesus’ work of grace extended to us through His death and resurrection by faith, is to work itself out in a life that conforms to God’s heart and purpose. So, how can we know that we are doing the right thing? How can we be sure we are fulfilling the law? Jesus makes it pretty easy - just do to others the very thing you would want them to do to you. This IS the Law and the Prophets. We could reply to the entire Sermon on the Mount and apply this basic principle and it works - don’t lust after a woman, but treat her with the respect you would want if you were in her shoes. Don’t divorce your wife, but treat her as you would want to be treated if you were in here shoes. Don’t show off how spiritual you are, but be as genuine toward others as you want them to be toward you. In this last section of the main body of the sermon Jesus lays out two more points and we will apply this principle to them and see how it works! First, Don’t judge others, but help them with grace and humility as you would want them to help you. Second, share the gospel with those who are hostile to it, the way you would want them to share with you if you were in their shoes. Finally, seek God, His Kingdom and His help to apply this principle on all of life, because He is a Father who applies this very principle of love in His care for you!
