Message Notes
Look Back
Which kingdom are you trusting & serving most - yours, the world or God’s? What area of your life do you need to evaluate and adjust to reflect God’s Kingdom principles?
Look Up
Read Matthew 6:9
- What is the connection between God’s “kingdom” and “will”? Is it possible for His kingdom to “come” (seen on earth), without His will being done? Why or why not?
- What does a person need to know or do for God’s will to be done on earth?
Read Matthew 5:13-16
- What does Jesus mean when He talks about salt “losing its saltiness”? What does this look like for people today?
- What does Jesus mean when He tells His listeners that they are the “light of the world” and to let their light shine? What does this mean for you and your life?
- What 2 things does Jesus say in verse 16 that should happen when someone “lets their light shine”? Why is it important to remember that we are to do both?
Read Matthew 5:5 & Philippians 2:5-8
- How does Philippians 2 show that Jesus lived out what He taught in Matthew 5? How many ways did Jesus show us how to be “meek” and “humble” in these verses? Which is easiest and hardest for you?
- How does Philippians 2:5 reinforce Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:13-16? Why is it important to consider the impact we have on others before acting?
Overall (Discovery Bible Study)
- What do these scriptures say about God?
- What do they say about people?
- How will I apply this to my life?
Look Ahead
Where in life are you being more sandy (irritating) than salty (a positive change agent)? Ask God to shape that area of your life this week.
Notes
Jesus’ teaching about prayer in Matthew 6 is intended to shape how we participate in living out the principles of the kingdom of God on earth before we die. In chapter 5, Jesus gave us guidance on the attitudes that represent God’s kingdom principles. While “meekness” is often viewed by the world negatively, Jesus shows us the positive impact that strength under control, voluntary submission, patient resilience, and selflessness can have on the world. Jesus calls us to follow His example in being a positive change agent (salt and light) in a dark and confusing world.
