Jesus' Commands

The Ten Commandments are important, but are we aware of the commandments of Christ? Let’s look at some of Jesus’ commands in the Gospel of Matthew.

Repent

What was an important focus of Jesus’ preaching?

“From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ ” (Matthew 4:17 ESV)

Our English word repent translates words meaning a change of heart and mind, to feel sorrow, and to turn back. There must also be proof or fruit of repentance in action (Matthew 3:8; Acts 26:20; Revelation 2:5; 2:21-22; 9:20-21; 16:9-11). Repentance includes a change of direction in two areas:

1. turning from evil (2 Chronicles 7:14; Ezekiel 18:21; James 5:20) and

2. turning to God (Deuteronomy 4:30; 30:10; 2 Chronicles 15:4; Luke 1:16; Acts 14:15; 15:19; 26:18-20; 1 Thessalonians 1:9).

The Law

Did Jesus abolish the law?

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished.” (Matthew 5:17-18 ESV)

Does the letter of the law apply to Christians or the spirit of the law (Romans 2:29; 7:6; 2 Corinthians 3:4-6)?

Reconciliation

How should we keep the peace?

“... First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court.” (Matthew 5:24-25 NIV)

Reconciliation is the goal, though it may not always be possible. In some circumstances, we just have to walk away and wipe the dust off our feet (Matthew 10:14; Mark 6:11; Luke 9:5; Acts 13:51).

Lust

Making a point by exaggeration, how did Jesus want us to avoid lust?

“If your right eye causes you to sin, poke it out and throw it away. It is better to lose one part of your body, than for your whole body to end up in hell. If your right hand causes you to sin, chop it off and throw it away! It is better to lose one part of your body, than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.” (Matthew 5:29-30 CEV)

Literal self-mutilation would be against God’s will (Leviticus 19:28; Deuteronomy 14:1; Mark 5:2–5; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Philippians 3:2). Jesus often uses hyperbolic or exaggerated teaching for emphasis. Here Jesus reminds us to take drastic action so as not to look or touch if it leads to adulterous thoughts.

Oaths

Should Christians make silly oaths?

“When you make a promise, say only ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’ Anything else comes from the devil.” (Matthew 5:37 CEV)

Saying some mumbo jumbo, raising your right hand, swearing on a Bible or on your mother’s grave is all just superstitious leverage. Though we may be required by man’s law to do these things, Christians know that in reality they do nothing to guarantee the truth. Jesus encourages us to simply say yes or no without resorting to silly oaths.

Enemies

How should Christians deal with enemies?

“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44 KJV).

What do we do if an enemy is coming over the hill to rape and murder our families? Is there a just war? That debate has gone on for a long time.

Perfection

What should a Christian seek?

“Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48 WEB)

“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.” (Matthew 6:33 NASB)

Perfection is the goal, and we all fall far short of it. We still need Jesus.

Judgmentalism

Should Christians be judgmental?

“Do not judge [censure], or you too will be judged.” (Matthew 7:1 NIV)

Does not being judgmental mean that we should be naïve without discernment?

“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces.” (Matthew 7:6 NKJV)

“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves.” (Matthew 7:15 NLT)

We need to know who dogs, swine and false prophets are so that we can take appropriate action. Judgmentalism is never appropriate. Not sharing holy things with those who will reject them with disdain and being aware of pretenders are necessary.

Ask, Seek, Knock

Should we persist in prayer?

“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7 NLT)