the teachings of Jesus

For part 2 of our Foundations of Faith series we looked at several of Jesus' teachings. We looked mostly in Matthew, but included a few more from Luke and John. Then we discussed the big themes of what Jesus was saying.

It is probably easier just to go through the various topics. Each topic is linked to the specific bible passage we went over. The topics ranged from repenting, to the beatitudes, settling quarrels, loving your enemies, prayer, money, worry, asking from the Lord, looking down on others, reconciling with your brother, humility, and the greatest commandment.

A good point was brought up in our high school class. In the passage with the Parable of the Lost Sheep, it sounds as if God is saying he loves those who come back to Him after being lost. And with the ones who remain faithful their whole lives, He is just like, "whatever." Not the case though. Nowhere in the Bible does it say that God loves some more than others- those who are more faithful or not. I didn't bring this up in class but if you remember when we studied the Parable of the Talents and the Parable of the Mina, there is a greater reward in heaven for those who bear more fruit through their serving. You can find that blog here.

There is no doubt that Jesus Christ was a great teacher while here on earth. I wanted to get at the big things though. What are three of the big messages that he was saying, just in regards to His teachings? (His miracles and claims to divinity is our lesson next week.)

The first two big messages I believe are found in John 15. The first section has Jesus making the analogy between Himself and His followers with a vine and its branches. Without Him, we cannot bear fruit. It doesn't say we cannot do good in the world. Those are two different things. This passage goes along with the greatest commandment in Matthew 22:34-40. Our relationship to Jesus Christ must be our #1 priority in life. We must believe in Him, first of all, and then strive to be closer to Him. That is the only way we will bear fruit.

The second big message follows in verses 12-17. We must show love to others. As a few of the teachings earlier say, we must even love our enemies and put others' needs before our own. In order to be great in the eyes of Jesus, we must lead a life of humility and serve others before ourselves.

So what does this add up to? I believe these teachings add up to the life that a Christ-follower should live that is very different from the world. One that is the least self-centered, least glory-seeking, and anxious about how we will be taken care of. After all, if God cares for the "birds" and the "lilies of the field," will He not care for you?