Great crowds have flocked to hear this moment in history. Their eyes and ears are firmly focused upon the orator—one of their own; many are hopeful he has come to rescue them from repression. Their expectations of his capabilities and purpose are extraordinary, misunderstood even. As a people, they have been waiting for this day for years, decades, and even centuries. The hopeful audience anticipates his words of vision and direction. They are eyewitnesses to history.
Throughout the discourse, there is a heavy emphasis upon change. The speaker notes keys to economic success. It’s impossible to miss the theme of loving and helping others. There’s even a part about being correct with oaths.
This moment in history didn’t take place in the capital of a 21st century world-power, but rather in 1st century Palestine. The speaker really was the Messiah; He actually brought hope and change to a people repressed by the consequences of sin.
When Jesus spoke what we commonly call the “Sermon on the Mount,” he did so without the aid of a microphone; there were much less than 2 million people in attendance. Yet, as far as speeches go, there’s likely not a more important one in the history of the world. Even though many would still reject Him as the Messiah and Savior, it serves as a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry and in God’s revelation of the new covenant.
Words of God > Words of men. We must always remember to hang our hopes and confidence on the unchanging words of our Lord. We as men can write and deliver powerful messages; none of those, however, come from the pen of the Creator and Sustainer. May we hear, hallow, and obey His words (Matt. 7:21-23).
Change is easier said than done. Much of Jesus’ sermon is fashioned around the thesis, “Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, your will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 5:20). He then outlines specific areas of change by saying, “You have heard that it was said...but I say to you…” Notice some of the things to which he alludes: anger, lust, divorce, honesty, revenge, loving enemies. Don’t we as 21st century America still struggle with many (or all) of those? What about within the church? What about you and me? Two-thousand years ago, Jesus ushered in an era of change; one that starts in the hearts of individuals. Even though it’s not easy, may we have the courage to change the world by changing our lives.
Only one foundation lasts. The riveting conclusion of Jesus’ sermon describes two normal men with two normal houses who face powerful storms. Only one house survives the storm—the one built upon hearing and doing God’s words. The other house is destroyed (Matt. 7:24-27). No matter how important, powerful, and discerning politicians and governments are, they will not withstand the storms of this life or the next if they are guided by anything other than the truth of God’s word. Our lives are no different.
Let’s make sure our faith is founded upon Him and His word. He's where we find hope.
