Kingdom Life | October 31, 2021

 

+ Read Scripture

Matthew 5:33-42

33"Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.' 34 But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, 35 or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. 36 And do not take an oath by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. 37 Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil. 38 "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' 39 But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. 41 And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. 42 Give to the one who begs from you, and do not refuse the one who would borrow from you.

Talk Sheet Questions

  1. Read Matthew 5:33-36, do people make oaths like that today? What does that sound like?

  2. When is it most difficult for you to just say “yes” or “no”? Are you more likely to overstate your commitment or be noncommittal?

  3. Why is it important to keep promises?

  4. Read Matthew 5:38-42, How do these limits of personal retribution inform your own actions? What area of your life comes to mind when you read these words of Jesus?

  5. Why does Jesus expect his disciples to be generous with those who impose on them? 

  6. Is it sinful to withhold from someone who asks? Are there any limits?  

Prayer

Pray for one another to be honest or generous.  

 
 
Scott Reavely