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Sermon Series: Jesus our Great Physician

Teacher: Carl Gulley

Sermon Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rgIXN-zR7pY

Key Scriptures:

• Matthew 5:20 – “For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.”
• Matthew 5:21-22 – “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.”
• Matthew 5:23-24 – “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.”
• Matthew 5:41 – “If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles.”
• Matthew 5:43-44 – “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Sermon Summary:

In this sermon, Pastor Carl Gulley, focuses on Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, particularly addressing anger and love for enemies. We see that Jesus is not merely giving moral advice or new laws, but introducing a new way of living in God’s kingdom. Carl also contrasts the old understanding of righteousness with a new, deeper righteousness that Jesus calls for – one that transforms the heart.

Main Ideas:

• Jesus introduces a new concept of righteousness (dikaiosune in Greek) that goes beyond external behavior to inner goodness.
• This new way of living is not achievable through willpower alone but requires supernatural transformation by the Holy Spirit.
• We need to cultivate a “kingdom heart” that responds to difficult situations with love and grace rather than anger or resentment.

Discussion Question For Application:

These are questions based on the scripture and sermon to help you put the teaching into practice. They can be used in discipleship, Lifegroup, as a family or with whoever is around your table this summer:

• How does Jesus’ teaching on righteousness surpassing that of the Pharisees challenge your understanding of what it means to live a godly life?
• In what ways do you struggle with anger in your daily life?
• Reflect on a time when you prioritized a religious activity over reconciling a broken relationship. How might you approach that situation differently now?
• What does it mean to you to “go the extra mile” in your relationships or responsibilities? Share an example of how you could apply this principle in your life.
• Who do you consider to be your “enemy” in your current circumstances? How can you actively work towards loving and praying for them?
• How does understanding God’s unconditional love for you impact your ability to love others, especially those who are difficult to love?
• In what ways do you struggle with self-forgiveness? How can you apply Jesus’ teachings on love and forgiveness to yourself?
• Discuss a time when you witnessed or experienced a radical act of forgiveness. How did it impact you or others involved?
• How can we cultivate a “kingdom heart” that responds to difficult situations with love and grace rather than anger or resentment?
• In what practical ways can you prioritize reconciliation and relationship-building in your daily life, even when it’s inconvenient or challenging?