The six antitheses are part of The Sermon on the Mount. Jesus called into question the oral tradition of the Pharisees and how they were teaching the law.

Talking Points:

  • The law says don’t murder but Jesus says to be reconciled. Instead of being fueled by hatred, direct your energy towards peace.
  • The law says don’t commit adultery but Jesus says to be radically pure. Get to the root of sexual sin and remove temptation before it leads to sin. Matthew 5:27-30, 1 Corinthians 6:18
  • The law says a man can divorce but Jesus says be selfless in marriage. Rather than looking for a loophole, spend your energy building a healthy marriage. Matthew 5:31-32
  • The law says don’t break a vow but Jesus says be a truth teller. Always tell the truth whether you’ve made commitments or not.
  • The law says eye for an eye but Jesus says be a blessing. Rather than seeking revenge, find ways to bless others whether they deserve it or not. Matthew 5:38-44
  • The law says hate your enemies but Jesus says to be like Him. Choose love and grace for those that wrong you.
Discussion:
  1. Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
  2. What do you think the audience was thinking hearing these antitheses?
  3. Read Matthew 5:17-18. What was the purpose of the law? What had the law become to the Jews?
  4. Read Matthew 5:27-30 and 1 Corinthians 6:18. What is Jesus’ point in these verses? What does Paul say about sexual sin?
  5. Read Matthew 5:31-32. Why was a decision to divorce selfish back then? What’s the better way to deal with a struggling marriage?
  6. Read Matthew 5:38-44. In your opinion, what does it look like to live out these words with your “enemies”?
  7. Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
Print Friendly, PDF & Email