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We trust that it is at least clear that the question of gaining or losing an entry into the
kingdom is one of supreme importance in this testimony of Christ while on earth, and
that around this theme the sermon on the mount revolves.
#7.
The Sermon on the Mount.
The Law for the Perfect.
pp. 77 - 79
Having gathered from the structure the emphatic words, and parallels in other parts,
the scope and object of the Sermon on the Mount, we can safely look at some of its
details without fear of misapplying their teaching.
It is perfectly evident that one and the same people are addressed throughout and the
exhortations, warnings and teaching are focused upon one point. The kingdom of heaven
of 5: 3 is seen to be closely connected with the earth in verse 5. This is seen again in
chapter 6: 10, "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven". Those
who are addressed here hold a twofold responsibility towards the world, which may or
may not be fully entered and realized:--
"Ye are the salt of the earth" (5: 13).
"Ye are the light of the world" (5: 14).
Salt may lose its savour and so be worthless. Light may be hidden under a bushel and
so be valueless. The light of good works was so to shine that men should be led to
glorify the Father which is in heaven.
The coming of Christ to Israel with its proclamation of king and kingdom did not set
aside the law:--
"Think not that I am come to destroy the law and the prophets, I am not come to
destroy but to fulfil" (5: 17).
The "therefore" of verse 19 shows that the "least commandments" there spoken of are
those of "the law". Whoever breaks (lou, destroy being kataluo) one of the least of these
commandments, and shall teach men so, forfeits position in the coming kingdom.
Whoever shall do and teach them (note the order), this one shall be called great in the
kingdom. But the doing of the law was not the highest attainment, as the rich young man
learned in Matt. 19: Perfection requires something more. The Lord therefore proceeds
to take the law and open its fuller and deeper spiritual application. A righteousness
greater than that of the Scribes and Pharisees would obtain an entrance into the kingdom,
but reward and treasure in heaven were connected with something more. Six times in
chapter 5: does the Lord speak of the old law and the new.
"Ye have heard."
"But I say."
(Matt. 5: 22-44).