In Matthew 5, Jesus delivers the Sermon on the Mount, teaching core principles of the
Christian faith. He starts with the Beatitudes; the blessings for the poor in spirit, the mourners,
the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, the merciful, the pure of heart, and
those who are persecuted because of righteousness. The word of God which Jesus promotes to
the believers calls on its followers to be ‘light and salt’ of the world in that they should make a
positive impact on the society (New International Version (NIV) - Version Information -
BibleGateway.com, 2011). He maintains purity of the heart and encourages the followers to go
beyond the letter of the law to the essence as to be blameless in both heart and mind. He
discusses issues to do with marriage and divorce, loving one’s neighbor or even the enemy, and
forgiveness. The chapter brings out the spirit of the law; requiring people to relate to the law with
passion and affectionate commitment to other people.
Summary of Mathew Chapter 13
In Matthew 13, Jesus shares a series of parables to reveal truths about the Kingdom of
Heaven. Jesus uses the setting of seeds on four areas of soil to show various returns in the
Christian spiritual life. In addition, the parables of Wheat and Tares, Mustard Seed, and Yeast
also demonstrate the continuing development and struggle of the kingdom (New International
Version (NIV) - Version Information - BibleGateway.com, 2011). The significance of parables
Then Jesus illustrates the reason for using parables highlighting the fact that they enlighten those
with the right perspective. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl focuses on the value
of the kingdom. Jesus goes on to teach the Parable of the Net, and clearly points to the final
judgment.