Kingdom Living

Matthew 5-7

We’ve all seen the movies a guy sees a girl and, within 30 seconds, knows that she is the one for him and begins his quest to win her over with grand gestures. But we all know that’s not really how it works. A guy sees a beautiful girl and wants her to choose him, but he doesn’t actually know her. He does big grand gestures that, sure, would make anyone swoon, but the intimacy is missing.

There is a reason that Jesus calls the church the “Bride” of Christ. There is a sacredness that comes from intimately knowing someone. Anyone can go on the street and loudly begin proclaiming their love for someone, but the tender, quiet moments prove their love. Jesus doesn’t want our love to be a spectacle, He wants our love to be genuine and devoted. Saved specifically for Him.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus reminds us of His attitude toward the law. Position, authority, and money are not important to His kingdom, but what matters to Him is faithful obedience from the heart. Like a husband who makes coffee for his wife each morning just because he loves her and wants to serve her, Jesus wants us to take time to get to know His heart. Who is He? What does He love? What makes Him angry? What do His teachings say about Him?

Many people will claim Christ when the end has come, but to many, the response will be, “I did not know you.” Have you spent enough time with the Lord to really know Him? The Sermon on the Mount shows us what he actually desires from His Bride.

Process and pray through this as you reflect on today’s passage.