GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW
THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT
God and Neighbour: Mt 7,1-12
Reading verses list the various teachings and sayings of Jesus. How does the theme of these verses differ from those which precede at the end of chapter 6?
The first verses of the chapter, 7,1-5, echo many themes found elsewhere. Look for example, at James 4,11-12 or Romans 2,1-11. Look also at the book of Proverbs, Prov 15,1-4.
The Old Testament background can be found in Lev 19,17. Who is my neighbour there? Consider too 2 Samuel 12,1-5 as an example of the saying of verses 4-5.
Who judges in verse 2? Hypocrite is a favourite word of Matthew.
.Verse 6 is unique to Matthew among the Gospels. What would be the significance of dogs (15,26-27) and pigs (8,30) to the contemporaries of Jesus? How does this verse provide a contrast to what precedes?
Consider how verses 7-11 are similar in outline to 6,25-34.
Verse 12 is well known as The Golden Rule. We've noted in the overview the important link word omitted by many translations.
Whilst the Golden Rule is a common wisdom saying of the ancient world, consider how does Jesus makes it specifc to his teaching (see 5,17).
Now take a look at my response.
We now continue with the overview of chapter 7 and the conclusion to the Sermon.