The passage sets the scene for the Sermon on the Mount, showing Jesus moving from public healing to teaching his disciples and the crowd. By ascending a mountain and sitting, Jesus adopts the traditional posture of a rabbi, signifying authority, while emphasizing that the Kingdom of God requires a fundamental inward shift rather than just outward compliance. The location echoes Moses receiving the Law on Mount Sinai, positioning Jesus as the new Lawgiver and authoritative teacher. Although Jesus primarily addresses his disciples, the crowds are present, making this a message for followers and seekers alike. “He opened his mouth and taught them” (v. 2) highlights the significance of the words about to be spoken in the Beatitudes and the rest of the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 5:1-12 acts as a transition point. Jesus has healed many (Matt 4:23-25), demonstrating his divine power. He now teaches that true blessing comes from internal transformation rather than external circumstances, preparing the audience for a “new way of seeing” the world.
We will be praying for you and your family. Please also include us in your prayers as well. See you at worship!
Dear God, thank you for Jesus who shows us the way to follow you. Be with us as we walk with Jesus, our Good Shepherd who gives us abundant life if we open our hearts to him. Amen