28. When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, 29. because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.
Today the series concludes the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus wasn’t just interested in people being impressed with His sermon. He just preached the greatest sermon ever. When He was done, I wonder if people lined up and said, “Jesus that was a real inspiration, thank you so much. We all needed to hear that.” or “Thanks Jesus that was the best sermon I ever heard.” They did say He spoke with authority unlike the others.
He said several times, “I tell you”. He could do so only as the Son of the living God, but hearing the message was not enough. Learning does not take place until it is put into action. Jesus said it first. “Do not be hearers only but doers.”
Then He goes on to tell the influence followers of Jesus must have. They must be like salt to a world that is decaying, holding back ungodliness and unrighteousness. We will upset people when we say no to abortion and no to pornography, no to gambling, drugs, alcohol and tobacco abuses. We will get people calling us narrow-minded and prudish. Sex outside of marriage is common. Even young people who call themselves Christians are sexually active before they marry.
To put it bluntly they not only ought to have an outward form of religious activities, but they must also have a heart change that affects their minds, their thoughts, their motives, their attitudes and actions.
When it comes to relating to others, don’t be harsh and critical with one another without self-evaluation. Jesus shows us the provision for having achieved all these by asking, seeking and knocking. I will assure you; you will discover His will if your heart really wants it. That type of praying is far different than the request lists you hear most praying.
In conclusion, He tells us to treat others the way we want to be treated. You cannot be a follower of Jesus and live according to the selfish pursuits of life and the worldly manners of the people around you. Which is it going to be?
The greatest decision you will make in this life does not concern this life at all. It concerns the life to come. These things are the building materials for that life. Is your foundation like sand (on things temporary), or on the rock of Christ who is eternal?
The storm is coming, and many will find they have built in vain on sand.
Application: May this "attitude be in you that was also in Christ Jesus." based on Phil 2:5
Prayer: Lord, make me to be salt to others. May Your word affect my mind, my thoughts, my motives, my attitudes and actions.
