25 Apr Discuss what Jesus is saying about “me first” in His Sermon on the Mount

We live in a world where everyone wants to be first, where everyone wants more. We live in a world where the motto is “my time, my place, and even my way.” We live in a world where it is “all about me.” It’s all about what I want, what I need, and what I want to do. Sometimes this “me mentality” can even destroy families and hurt others in its wake. “As long as I am happy, then all will be well…” And yet, is it possible to be happy, to be at peace, without right action being a precursor to that happiness?

 

Let’s consider this thought:  Perhaps it is “all about me.” Perhaps it is about “me first.” Yet if our lives are turned inside-out and we are passionately seeking the Kingdom of Heaven, then what does it mean to be “first?”

 

Upon successful completion of the course material, you will be able to:

 

· Take action by being first to forgive or bring peace to a situation this week.

 

· Share your experience of being the “peacemaker” first.

 

· Discuss what Jesus is saying about “me first” in His Sermon on the Mount.

 

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Resources

 

· Bible

 

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Background Information

 

In Matthew, chapter five, Jesus continues to teach His disciples about the Kingdom of Heaven. We are mere spectators. We have been allowed to sit on the mountainside and listen in. We are beginning to understand His words…but now the question becomes, what do we do with these words? How do we put these teachings into action?

 

As Matthew tells us, Jesus continues:

 

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

 

Matthew 5:3–10

 

What if it is about “me first?” What if instead of thinking about what will make me happy, I am the first to begin to hunger and thirst for righteousness? How will that change my life? How will righteousness make me more “blessed,” happier?

 

This week, take action to be first to forgive or bring peace to a situation.

 

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Instructions

 

1. Navigate to the Discussion page and respond to the following prompts:

 

a. Share your experience of being the “peacemaker” first.

 

b. Discuss what Jesus is saying about “me first” in His Sermon on the Mount.

 

2. Your postings should also:

 

a. Be well developed by providing clear answers with evidence of critical thinking.

 

b. Add greater depth to the discussion by introducing new ideas.

 

c. Provide clarification to classmates’ questions and provide insight into the discussion.