Embracing the Radical Call of the Sermon on the Mount

(Adapted from Jerry Cisar’s Blog)

In the heart of the New Testament, nestled within Matthew's chapters 5 through 8, lies the Sermon on the Mount (SM), a cornerstone of Christian ethics and discipleship. Yet, for many, the demands articulated here by Jesus may appear unattainably high, almost utopian. As I've explored in other writings, particularly concerning the Beatitudes, the SM calls believers to a life of radical sacrifice and unreserved commitment to righteousness.

Jesus’s approach in the SM breaks away from traditional views that might confine it to mere theoretical righteousness, or a symbolic show of one’s inability to achieve holiness without divine intervention. Instead, it serves as a vivid blueprint for living under Jesus's kingly reign. It’s not about falling short and seeking forgiveness; it’s about aspiring to live out the kingdom values in concrete ways.

Misinterpretations and Misapplications

Throughout history, particularly since the Reformation, many have tried to fit the SM into a "justification by faith alone" framework. This, however, dilutes the essence of Jesus’s teachings. The Sermon isn't a mirror to reflect our moral failures but a guidebook for kingdom living. It challenges us to exceed even the righteousness of the Pharisees, not through legalistic observance but through a heart transformed by faith.

The early Christian document, The Didache, mirrors this ethos, emphasizing practices like blessing those who curse you and turning the other cheek—principles that seem as countercultural today as they were in the first century. This alignment between the SM and the teachings of the earliest church fathers underscores the sermon's intended function as a practical guide for daily living, not as an impossible standard meant to drive us to despair.

The Contemporary Struggle with Jesus’s Demands

Admittingly, the SM's calls to radical generosity and love are daunting. They compel us to redefine what it means to follow Christ in a world that often values personal gain over selfless love. The narrative that follows the SM in Matthew's gospel, including stories like Jesus’s instruction to leave one's duties for the dead to follow him immediately, illustrates the real-world implications of his teachings. These stories aren’t just theological riddles; they are calls to action that disrupt conventional life choices.

Storms on the Way to Obedience

The path of obedience to Jesus's commands is not a guarantee of a trouble-free life. Matthew 8 recounts the disciples' obedience in following Jesus into a boat, only to be met with a violent storm. In this moment, Jesus, asleep on the boat, seems indifferent to their peril. Yet, this scenario is emblematic of the Christian experience: following Jesus might lead into storms, but it is also where we see his power to calm the winds and waves of our lives.

Conclusion: The Seriousness of the Sermon

Can Jesus really be serious in his demands? Absolutely. The SM is not an archaic religious speech with no relevance today. It is a call to live out the radical ethics of the kingdom here and now. This life of discipleship starts by recognizing Jesus’s authority and committing to his path, which often contradicts our own judgments about what is good or practical. This requires a deep, abiding faith—a faith that believes not only in Jesus’s teachings but also in his continual presence and power to aid us through the storms we face.

In essence, the Sermon on the Mount isn’t just about what Jesus said; it's about how we respond to his call every day. It’s a journey of transformation, demanding our whole being to align with the will of God. Let us, therefore, strive to embody these teachings, trusting that in our obedience and our challenges, Jesus is both our guide and our savior.

Action Steps and Reflections

Daily Reflection: Each morning, take a moment to read a portion of the Sermon on the Mount. Reflect on how Jesus's words can be applied to your daily interactions and decisions. 🌄

Act of Generosity: Once a week, find a way to perform an act of generosity that stretches you beyond your comfort zone. This could be financial, or it could involve giving your time or talents where they are most needed. 🎁

Pray for Enemies: Make it a practice to pray for someone who challenges or opposes you. Ask for the grace to see them as Jesus does and for the wisdom to respond in love. 🙏

Community Engagement: Join or form a small group to discuss how the SM can be lived out in your community. This could involve meeting regularly to support each other in applying Jesus's teachings in concrete ways. 👥

Journaling: Keep a journal of your experiences and reflections as you attempt to live out the SM. Note challenges, surprises, and moments of grace. 📔

Teach Others: Share the insights and lessons you've learned with others. This could be through informal conversations, social media, or even leading a study group at your church. 🗣️

By engaging with these action steps, you will not only deepen your understanding of the Sermon on the Mount but also actively participate in the life-changing journey of following Jesus more closely.

[This article was adapted from Jerry Cisar’s teachings.]