Let’s talk about politics.

In Jesus’ most famous sermon, the Sermon on the Mount, he constantly is preaching a sort of “upside down kingdom” that functions in an entirely unexpected way. He uses some great metaphors to describe how Christians ought to interact with and be known by society.

Matthew 5:11–16

[11] “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. [12] Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

[13] “You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet.

[14] “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. [16] In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (ESV)

Consider these questions about this passage. Take some notes about your answers.
1. Does this bring to mind a sin to confess?
2. Is there a promise here to claim?
3. Is there a command to obey?
4. Is there an example to follow?
5. Is there an error to avoid?
6. Is there something here to praise God for?

If you’d like to learn more about Matthew 5 watch the book overview at The Bible Project: Matthew 1-13