Sermon Central
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The Sermon On The Mount
Contributed by Christopher Benfield on Aug 18, 2021 (message contributor)
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1. Series Introduction
Contributed on Aug 18, 2021
When someone mentions the Sermon on the Mount, most immediately think of the Beatitudes. That was the introduction of the message, but if that is all we take away from this powerful message, we have missed much truth and benefit for our lives.
Series Introduction Matthew 5: 1-2 I would like to begin laying the groundwork for a series of messages I hope to preach on The Sermon on the Mount. I think we would all agree that Jesus was the greatest preacher to ever open the pages of God’s Word and expound upon a passage. In chapters 5-7 of ...read more
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2. The Beatitudes Of Christ (Part 1)
Contributed on Aug 18, 2021
Jesus uses the word blessed nine times in these opening verses. Clearly there is a significant emphasis on being blessed. He reveals the presence and assurance of blessing to those who follow Him.
The Beatitudes of Christ (Part 1) Matthew 5: 3-12 Our text begins the great discourse of Jesus, His preaching of The Sermon on the Mount. His powerful message began with what has become commonly known as the “Beatitudes.” The term beatitude comes from Latin and literally means “happiness or ...read more
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3. The Beatitudes Of Christ (Part 2)
Contributed on Aug 25, 2021
While many of the blessings Jesus speaks of appear to be contradictions, we must remember that God’s economy is much different than ours. The world views blessings based upon circumstances or material possessions. The Lord speaks of blessing in regard to our relationship with Him.
The Basis of Blessing (Part 2) Matthew 5: 3-12 Today I would like to continue our study on the passage that is commonly referred to as the Beatitudes. Remember this is a Latin term that literally means “happiness or bliss.” Our Lord uses the word blessed nine times in this discourse. He is clearly ...read more
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4. The Salt Of The Earth
Contributed on Sep 2, 2021
Jesus addressed the need for all believers to serve as the salt of the earth and light to this dark world. We will discover as we move through these verses both are necessary and much needed in our day. Each of these elements has a distinct and profound effect on their surroundings.
The Salt of the Earth Matthew 5: 13 We have spent a considerable amount of time dealing with the portion of the Sermon on the Mount known as the Beatitudes. I think you would agree those verses were a challenging and insightful study. As our Lord concluded His thoughts concerning the beatitudes, ...read more
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5. The Light Of The World
Contributed on Sep 8, 2021
Light has the ability to penetrate and permeate the darkness. When light is introduced, darkness has to flee. Darkness and light cannot inhabit the same position. There are times when barriers prevent light from reaching darkness, but once it does, the darkness is gone.
The Light of the World Matthew 5: 14-16 We are continuing our study of the Sermon on the Mount. This is the longest recorded message we have that our Savior preached. It was given to the disciples, the followers of Jesus, and reveals much practical application to the lives we live. In our last ...read more
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6. Christ: The Fulfillment Of The Law
Contributed on Sep 22, 2021
One cannot have a right relationship with God apart from His righteousness and righteousness is only obtained through the only begotten Son. Once that righteousness is obtained through salvation in Christ, we are obligated to live according to the standard that God’s righteousness demands.
Christ: The Fulfillment of the Law Matthew 5: 17-20 As we continue our study in this powerful message Jesus preached, we come to a definite shift in His message. He has dealt with the blessedness of life in the Beatitudes and the responsibility of believers as the salt of the earth and the light ...read more
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7. A Word Concerning Murder
Contributed on Sep 29, 2021
We know that killing another is wrong, but Jesus expands the realm of accountability for murder beyond what most, even in our day, perceive as murderous.
A Word Concerning Murder Matthew 5: 21-26 In our text today, Jesus continued to emphasize the righteous standard that God expects and requires of humanity to have fellowship with Him. Here our Lord continued to point out man’s misguided perception of righteousness and He again rebukes the ...read more
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8. A Word Concerning Morality
Contributed on Oct 20, 2021
The text is a portion of the Sermon on the Mount, and a distinct biblical doctrine, that is often overlooked and even ignored. In this portion of His message Jesus dealt with the immorality of adultery and emphasized the importance of morality among believers.
A Word Concerning Morality Matthew 5: 27-30 Today we come to a portion of the Sermon on the Mount, and a distinct biblical doctrine, that is often overlooked and even ignored. In this portion of His message Jesus dealt with the immorality of adultery and emphasized the importance of morality ...read more
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9. A Word Concerning Divorce (Part 1)
Contributed on Oct 27, 2021
What does Scripture teach about divorce? Does God encourage divorce? Is divorce permissible for any reason? Jesus reveals much regarding these significant questions.
A Word Concerning Divorce (Part 1) Matthew 5: 31-32 As we approach our text, I am reminded of the words of Dr. Alan Carr. “When you preach through books of the Bible one of the great blessings is that, sooner or later, you will preach on every subject imaginable. But, one of the disadvantages is ...read more
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10. A Word Concerning Divorce (Part 2)
Contributed on Nov 3, 2021
What does the Bible have to say about divorce? Are there circumstances in which divorce is permissible? What counsel does Scripture give Christians regarding divorce? The answer to these questions are in the Bible.
A Word Concerning Divorce (Part 2) Matthew 5: 31-32 Today, I would like to finish up our study of the portion of the Sermon on the Mount where our Lord dealt with divorce. As I mentioned last time, it is not my intention to single out or condemn any who have faced divorce. I am aware of the pain ...read more
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11. A Word Concerning Character
Contributed on Nov 10, 2021
The words men speak are actually a reflection of the heart. People eventually speak what they feel. The character of men, their inner being is eventually revealed as they speak.
A Word Concerning Character Matthew 5: 33-37 As I began to study this passage, initially it was one of the most difficult to discern that I have studied. I realized the reason for my difficulty was directly related to my approach. The majority of commentaries on this passage approach it from the ...read more
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12. A Word Concerning Confrontation
Contributed on Dec 1, 2021
Most of us have, at some point, desired to get even with those who have wronged us. There is something within our human nature that desires to “return the favor.” These attitudes are contrary to God's will for our lives.
A Word Concerning Confrontation Matthew 5: 38-42 As we continue our study in the Sermon on the Mount, we come to a passage that we all have heard a portion of quoted many times in our lives: An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. This is often quoted in anger, or in a desire to repay a wrong ...read more
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13. Love Beyond Limits
Contributed on Dec 8, 2021
Just as it was in Jesus’ day, many have a perception of love, but it is not love as God commands. Much of what we see today described as love does not fit the biblical model for love.
Love beyond Limits Matthew 5: 43-48 As we close out the fifth chapter of Matthew, we are getting close to the midway point of the great sermon Jesus preached. For the past several weeks we have considered various contrasts Jesus made regarding time honored traditions and the reality of what God ...read more
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14. An Offering Given In Purity
Contributed on Dec 15, 2021
Every believer ought to be a philanthropist in that they seek the welfare of those around them. That is not to say that we support ungodly behavior, but that we seek to assist those in need.
An Offering Given in Purity Matthew 6: 1-4 Today we begin a new chapter in our study of the Sermon on the Mount, but it is just a continuation of what we have studied in the past. We are still dealing with the message Jesus preached to the multitudes. His focus has shifted somewhat, but He ...read more
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15. The Proper Attitude In Prayer
Contributed on Jan 5, 2022
Prayer is something we are all familiar with, but I wonder if we are familiar enough with prayer? Is it possible that we have become too familiar with prayer? I believe there are instances in our lives where both are true.
The Proper Attitude in Prayer Matthew 6: 5-8 We have come to the portion of the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus begins to address prayer. The act of praying is literally imploring God to move on our behalf. It is described as words of worship or entreaty that are offered to the Lord. Prayer is ...read more
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16. The Aspects Of Prayer
Contributed on Jan 12, 2022
In this text, Jesus spoke of nine different aspects of prayer that we are encouraged to embrace as we pray. His focus deals with the attitude of the heart. This is not a sample, replacement prayer we are to use instead of seeking the Lord for our needs and desires.
The Aspects of Prayer Matthew 6: 9-13 We have come to one of the most recognized portions in all of Scripture. I think it would be safe to say, this passage is among the top three most quoted passages, along with Psalm 23 and John 3:16. Most of the time, it is referred to as the Lord’s Prayer. I ...read more
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17. The Fundamentals Of Forgiveness
Contributed on Jan 26, 2022
Our Lord mentioned forgiveness in the model prayer, V.12, knowing a forgiving spirit was imperative for effective prayer. The importance of forgiveness is revealed by the fact that it is the only aspect of prayer that our Lord expounded further upon.
The Fundamentals of Forgiveness Matthew 6: 14-15 In our last study we considered the Lord’s model for prayer. The verses we’ve read today are tied to the example Jesus gave us to follow. This was clearly no accident. Our Lord mentioned forgiveness in the model prayer, V.12, knowing a forgiving ...read more
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18. The Fundamentals Of Fasting
Contributed on Feb 2, 2022
Fasting is something that creates uncertainty and anxiety in the minds of many. I think if we will take the time to consider what our Lord has to say and seek to understand fasting, we will become more comfortable with it.
The Fundamentals of Fasting Matthew 6: 16-18 We have come to a portion of Scripture that is little discussed in our day. I don’t think I have ever heard this passage preached or dealt with at length. The focus of this portion of the Sermon on the Mount is fasting. That may be something the average ...read more
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19. The Truth About Treasure
Contributed on Feb 9, 2022
We live in a culture that is consumed with possessions and wealth. In fact, most are judged more by what they have accumulated than the character they possess. It seems as if most can never get enough.
The Truth about Treasure Matthew 6: 19-24 In our text, Jesus addresses an issue that was prevalent in His day. He was surrounded by many who sought worldly gain. They were often preoccupied with acquiring material wealth and possessions. We too live in a culture that is consumed with possessions ...read more
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20. Gaining Victory Over Worry
Contributed on Feb 16, 2022
Few among us are not prone to anxiety and worry. Some allow worry and anxiety to dominate their lives. Thankfully, believers do not have to live in worry. Peace and assurance are available in Christ.
Gaining Victory over Worry Matthew 6: 25-34 We have read a portion of Scripture to which we can all relate. I am sure that some of us are worse than others, but we all have occasions in life when we worry. I know that I am guilty of worrying needlessly many times. We may not like to consider it, ...read more
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21. The Verdict On Judgment
Contributed on Feb 23, 2022
We all make judgments practically every day. Some are quick and quite subtle, while others are more deliberate and obvious. Believers must ensure their judgments are biblical, and measured with grace.
The Verdict on Judgment Matthew 7: 1-5 We have come to a new chapter in our study of the Sermon on the Mount, but it is just a continuation of the thoughts of our Lord. We have considered and discussed many practical subjects that deal with human life and practice in our study and we continue to ...read more
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22. Casting Pearls Before The Swine
Contributed on Mar 2, 2022
As we consider Christ the Lord, many attributes come to mind, but His holiness has to rank at the top of the list. f one looks at Christ apart from His holiness, they have missed the essence of who He is.
Casting Pearls before the Swine Matthew 7:6 As I began to consider the words of our Lord in our text, I was reminded of His holiness. As we consider Christ the Lord, many attributes come to mind, but His holiness has to rank at the top of the list. His very essence is comprised of holiness. All ...read more
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23. Asking With Expectation
Contributed on Mar 9, 2022
Prayer is the greatest tool the Christian has. It is through prayer that we make our petitions known unto God. We will never be any stronger spiritually than our prayer life allows.
Asking with Expectation Matthew 7: 7-11 We have come to a very familiar and favorite portion of the Sermon on the Mount. We have considered the importance of prayer in previous studies, and yet once again, Jesus emphasizes its importance in these verses. Our Lord understood the importance of ...read more
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24. The Principle Of The Golden Rule
Contributed on Mar 16, 2022
Most are familiar with the Golden Rule. Bible skeptics argue there is nothing special about Jesus' teaching on this principle. His teaching, however, is unique and much different than the worldly views.
The Principle of the Golden Rule Matthew 7:12 We come to a statement our Lord made while preaching the Sermon on the Mount that we are all familiar. No doubt each of us has heard this principle as long as we can remember. The Bible skeptic would argue there is nothing special about our Lord’s ...read more
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25. The Two Travelers
Contributed on Mar 23, 2022
Each of us travels on a journey through this life. Each day presents new challenges and choices. Each day we choose which path we will travel and those choices determine where we arrive at the end of the day.
The Two Travelers Matthew 7: 13-14 As we continue our study in the Sermon on the Mount, we come to a passage that all need to hear in our day. This is a passage that all can relate and understand. Here Jesus speaks of the way we are traveling and the course of life we are on. These are two courses ...read more
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26. The Peril Of False Prophets (Part 1)
Contributed on Apr 13, 2022
Satan doesn’t mind the church gathering together as long as we don’t share the truth of the gospel. He doesn’t mind preaching as long as it doesn’t reveal the depravity of humanity and the salvation available through Christ our Lord.
The Peril of False Prophets (Part 1) Matthew 7: 15-20 As I studied this passage, I was reminded of the relevance of Scripture for every generation. 2 Tim.3:16 – All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in ...read more
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27. Absolute Certainty Or Mere Sincerity?
Contributed on Apr 27, 2022
Jesus addressed the grave disappointment some will encounter as they stand before Him, seeking to gain entrance into His kingdom. These were certainly sincere in their efforts, but they were not found worthy to gain access to the kingdom.
Absolute Certainty or Mere Sincerity? Matthew 7: 21-23 As we continue to study the Sermon on the Mount, we come to the portion of the message where Jesus addressed the grave disappointment some will encounter as they stand before Him, seeking to gain entrance into His kingdom. As we will ...read more
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28. The Two Builders
Contributed on May 4, 2022
This passage applies to all people. Whether we make our living in construction or not, we are all builders. Each day we live we are building something that will one day be evaluated by the Master Builder.
The Two Builders Matthew 7: 24-27 We have come to the conclusion of the longest recorded message in Scripture our Lord preached: The Sermon on the Mount. It has been an insightful journey; much of what we have considered has been very familiar to us, but it has been challenging as well. The ...read more