How can we apply Jesus' teaching method from Matthew 5:1 in our lives? Seeing People as Jesus Did • “When Jesus saw the crowds…” (Matthew 5:1) • He looked at people first, not problems or programs. • Application: – Slow down and actually notice those around you—family, church members, coworkers, neighbors. – Pray for eyes that feel compassion (Mark 6:34). – Keep a mental or written list of names and needs you’ve “seen” this week. Creating Space for Teaching • “…He went up on the mountain…” • Jesus chose a setting that reduced distraction and amplified His voice. • Application: – Set aside regular, unrushed places—kitchen table, small-group circle, a park bench—where Scripture can be opened without hurry. – Guard those times as intentionally as Jesus guarded His hillside moment (Luke 5:3 shows He even used a boat when needed). – Use your “mountain” for both family devotions and one-on-one discipleship. Choosing a Posture of Humble Authority • “…and after He sat down…” • Sitting was the rabbi’s teaching posture—confident yet calm. • Application: – Teach from rest, not from frantic activity; let God’s Word carry the weight (Isaiah 55:11). – Speak with conviction, but in a tone that invites dialogue rather than domination (Colossians 4:6). – Physically sit with others when possible; body language communicates humility. Inviting Disciples Close • “His disciples came to Him.” • Jesus allowed proximity; instruction was relational. • Application: – Keep circles small enough for conversation, accountability, and life-on-life modeling (1 Thessalonians 2:8). – Pair newer believers with mature ones; encourage questions and shared experiences. – Remember that people “come” when they feel welcomed and valued. Speaking From the Mountain of God’s Word • Immediately after sitting, Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7). • Application: – Let Scripture form the core of every lesson (2 Timothy 4:2). – Read the text aloud; then explain, illustrate, and apply. – Resist substituting personal opinion for biblical authority. Practicing Consistency and Availability • Jesus’ pattern of teaching—hillsides, synagogues, boats, homes—shows steady availability (Matthew 4:23). • Application: – Build regular rhythms: weekly Bible study, monthly mentoring breakfasts, daily family worship. – Be accessible for follow-up; learning rarely happens in a single session. Living the Message Before We Teach • The Sermon on the Mount demands heart obedience (Matthew 5:20; 7:24). • Application: – Align personal conduct with proclaimed truth (James 1:22). – Share victories and failures honestly; authenticity strengthens credibility. – Remember: “You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone” (2 Corinthians 3:2). Summary Steps for This Week 1. Notice three specific people God places in your path; note their needs. 2. Block out one “mountain” slot—undistracted time and place—to open the Bible with someone. 3. Sit down, literally, when you teach or discuss Scripture; aim for calm confidence. 4. Invite at least one person into closer discipleship—coffee, walk, or home visit. 5. Prepare your next lesson straight from the text; keep opinions secondary. 6. Follow up afterward, staying reachable for questions or prayer. 7. Examine one area where you need to obey before you instruct others, and act on it. |
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