If the gospel narrative attributed to Matthew is the most “political” in nature (which is the premise of my current series of reflections) we might compare Jesus’ monumental Sermon on the Mountain with that of an inaugural speech which a politician might give. (Matthew 5-7)
The gospel writer(s) here view it of utmost importance to let readers and hearers of this book know Jesus’ priorities early on, at the very start of Jesus’ earthly work. It is a choice to not wait and pepper us with doctrine as the book progresses (although some of that is done in good time too), and to instead share the agenda for this new movement. While the earlier written gospel of Mark prioritizes the action of Jesus, here in Matthew we are urged to see that all action must adhere to clear Kingdom-building guidelines. Here the duties of discipleship—of following Jesus—are laid out for us.
The words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount should be seen for their startling nature. They separate Jesus from the prophets and teachers of the past. These calls to action raise the bar for what good faith looks like. They challenge followers to go beyond following rules for the sake of rules, and to instead strive for the very heart of God. These words seem often unattainable and in many ways that is the point; because when we strive for the unattainable we learn to trust God all the more and we become co-builders of the Eternal Kingdom. And our daily efforts that help to build the Eternal Kingdom are ultimately the only efforts that matter for all eternity.
There is a lot that could be said about the Sermon on the Mount, both as it relates to the intersection of faith and politics, and (more importantly) as it relates to overall discipleship. Lent begins today, and through this year’s Lenten period (the next 40 days), my hope is to spend time reflecting on these fundamental teachings of Jesus and to write about some of those thoughts here.
As we look towards the unattainable mountaintop and the high demands of our Lord and Savior, may we be surprised by the power of the Holy Spirit at our back and the comfort of Jesus at our side; and in the end discover an amazing joy in discipleship that transforms us and our world.
Relevant Reformation 