Matthew 5: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Matthew 5 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Jesus sees the multitudes and goes up on a mountain to teach his disciples (vv. 1-2). He begins with the Beatitudes, declaring blessings for the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the gentle, and those who seek righteousness (vv.

Key verse

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.”
Matthew 5:3 (WEB)

Outline

Matthew 5:1–12 Introduction to the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:13–16 Salt and Light Metaphors
Matthew 5:17–20 Fulfillment of the Law
Matthew 5:21–26 Anger and Reconciliation
Matthew 5:27–32 Adultery and Divorce
Matthew 5:33–47 Oaths and Love for Enemies
Matthew 5:48 Call to Perfection

Discussion questions

In v3, who does Jesus say are 'blessed' and what is their reward?
What does Jesus mean by being 'the salt of the earth' in v13?
In v20, what does Jesus imply about the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees?
The command in v29 about plucking out an eye: what might this suggest about the severity of sin?
When have you struggled to love someone who is difficult, as Jesus commands in v44?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Matthew 5: Luke 6, Matthew 6, James 1.

Before next time: read Matthew 6.