First UMC
Preventative Medicine
Matthew 5:21-30 NRSV
Excuse me, may I have your attention? The kingdom of heaven is an option for you!
Can Openers for today’s passage:
Matthew 5:17 “I have not come to abolish but fulfill the law.” [DIVORCE example]
Matthew 5:20 “Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” [RESPECTABLE on the way to HOLY]
Actions speak louder than words. But Jesus says that ACTIONS, WORDS, THOUGHTS AND MOTIVES all count if you want the holiness of the kingdom of heaven instead of being satisfied with respectability under the law.
V. 21-26 Murder - Anger - Contempt
V. 27-30 Adultery - Lust - Looking
How do we move from respectability under the law to holiness in the kingdom of heaven?
1. Awareness
2. Transparency
3. Accountability