Message Notes
Look Back
In what ways did you allow God to search your heart and lead you in a different direction?
Look Up
Read Matthew 5:21-32
- Which one of Jesus’ “I tell you…” statements is the most difficult for you to understand? What specifically challenges your thinking and understanding of God?
- Why do you think Jesus repeatedly used hyperbole, an exceptional exaggeration deliberately used for emphasis, to make a point? What does this say about Jesus?
- Why do you think Jesus included warnings about adultery and divorce, with warnings about murder, anger and settling disputes? Which of these “sins” has the potential for the most severe consequences, and why do you think Jesus singles this “sin” out?
- What do people today see as the potential “solutions” to adultery and divorce? What do you personally view as the best solutions?
Read 1 John 4:7-12
- How do these verses relate to Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5? What is the connection between “loving” others and the “hot” topics Jesus mentions in Matthew 5?
- How easy is it for you to show love to another person who has wronged you or has something against you? How might the truths from these verses help you when you face a challenging situation or relationship?
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
How intentional are you in treating others the same way that God treats you? What will you do this week to be more consistent in treating others as God treats you?
Notes
In these verses, Jesus used extreme exaggeration as an illustration for impact, not instruction. It highlights that there are implications resulting from how we think about relationships, especially marriage. Jesus wants to make sure our understanding and actions are aligned with God. Is marriage trivial and easily discarded or is it holy and of high regard? Jesus’ extreme example was intended to prompt us to check our thoughts and actions, and to serve as an illustration of God’s unrelenting and unconditional love for us.
