The Bethany Bullet - Week of February 19, 2017

Sermon: “But…”

Text: Matthew 5:21-22, 27-28, 33-34, 43-45 & 48

In his fifth chapter Matthew records Jesus’ explanation of the law and in so doing reveals the absolute holiness of God, the seriousness of the law and the radical reality of sin in our lives.

Take some time to read through Matthew 5:21-48.  (In this particular case the CEV or NIV is best)

Notice how each time Jesus mentions something His hears no quite well…for example, “You have heard it said, ‘Do not murder.’”  You can almost picture the crowd nodding in affirmation, confirming His preaching on each occasion as He declares things they know and believe from the Decalogue.  When suddenly, each time, Jesus explains and in their minds expands the law and in so doing ends up blowing their minds.  BUT…I say to you.  That is how Jesus opens their minds to the seriousness of the law, the holiness of God and the radical reality of sin in their lives.

On each occasion Jesus leaves them with no escape; no way to claim a righteousness of their own.  On each occasion Jesus leaves us with no escape; no way to claim a righteousness of our own.  BUT…for the promise of Christ we would be lost!  BUT… there is a righteousness that is ours!  One that comes by faith in Jesus Christ! 

-Pastor Kevin Kritzer