Sermon on the Mount: Loving Enemies

World Religions
Written By Mark Strauss

Sermon Notes

Sermon on the Mount

Chapter 4: The Power of Transforming Love, Matthew 5:38–48

1. Transforming Love Seeks Justice, v. 38

a. Jesus is not denying the need for justice

b. Jesus’ point is about personal vengeance, not societal justice

 

2. Transforming Love Takes the Offensive, Overcoming Evil with Good, vv. 39-42

 

3. Transforming Love Seeks the Best for Others, vv. 43–47

 

4. Transforming Love Reveals God’s Love for the World, vv. 45, 48

 

Study/Discussion Questions:

1. What is our natural tendency when others hurt or attack us? What are some examples of this from society or from media (movies, etc.)? 

2. What does Jesus say you should do when someone slaps you on one cheek? When they seek to take away your possessions? Does this seem unreasonable?

3. In what way does the command, “an eye for an eye,” actually demand justice instead of vengeance? In what way is the government God’s agent for justice? 

4. What does it mean that transforming love takes the offensive? What are some ways we might overcome evil with good?

5. Is biblical love a feeling or an action? Why is this important with reference to the command to love your enemies? 

6. In what way did God demonstrate his love for his enemies?

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