Sermon on the Mount Midterm Study Guide

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Questions and Answers

What four syllable word does Stott use to describe the Sermon on the Mount?

Counter-Culture

What is the essential theme of the whole Bible?

God's historical purpose is to call out a people for himself.

Where is the Sermon on the Mount found?

In the New Testament in the book of Matthew, chapters 5 through 7.

In what were the Christians to exceed [surpass] the Pharisees?

In their righteousness, displayed in every facet of their lives. Signup and view all the answers

What were the reasons that Jesus went to the mountains?

To avoid crowds and to find a place to teach his disciples. Signup and view all the answers

To which Old Testament character is Jesus often compared by scholars studying the 'Sermon'?

The prophet Nathan. Signup and view all the answers

In what posture did Jesus deliver the Sermon on the Mount and why?

Seated, to become more approachable. Signup and view all the answers

How does Matthew's sermon compare with Luke's?

Luke's version is shorter and appears to be more of a paraphrased version of Matthew's. Signup and view all the answers

How many beatitudes are contained in Matthew's version?

Eight. Signup and view all the answers

What is required to attain the characteristics described in the 'Sermon'?

A New Birth experience, renewing oneself in the Holy Spirit. Signup and view all the answers

What is the meaning of 'happy' and 'blessed' in the beatitudes?

'Happy' closely resembles the synonym for 'blessed.' Signup and view all the answers

To what Old Testament literary piece is the 'Sermon' often compared?

The 'five books of Moses' or the Torah. Signup and view all the answers

What should the Sermon on the Mount be viewed as?

A 'new law.' Signup and view all the answers

Know the central theme of each of the eight beatitudes?

Read them in Matthew 5:3-12. Signup and view all the answers

Know three kinds of righteousness spoken of in the Bible.

Legal, moral, and social. Signup and view all the answers

What do the first four beatitudes primarily address?

Our relationship with God. Signup and view all the answers

What do the last four beatitudes address?

Our relationship with other humans. Signup and view all the answers

What clearly demonstrates that we have been forgiven by God?

God's sacrifice of His one and only son. Signup and view all the answers

What 20th century pastor does Stott hold up as an example of enduring persecution?

Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Signup and view all the answers

What two metaphors does Stott illustrate the Christian's influence?

Salt and light. Signup and view all the answers

According to Stott, what are the three lessons to be learned from these metaphors?

<ol> <li>There is a fundamental difference between Christians and non-Christians. 2. We must accept the responsibility this distinction puts upon us. 3. We must see our Christian responsibility as twofold.</li> </ol> Signup and view all the answers

What was Jesus' attitude toward the Scriptures?

A necessary doctrinal teaching that He fulfilled. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Sermon on the Mount Overview

Described as "Counter-Culture" by Stott.
Essential theme of the Bible: God's purpose to call out a people for Himself, aiming to make disciples everywhere.

Location and Content

Found in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Matthew, chapters 5 to 7.
Matthew contains 8 beatitudes, outlining characteristics for Christians.

Teachings and Leadership

Christians are called to surpass the righteousness of the Pharisees in all aspects of life.
Jesus retreated to the mountains to escape crowds and focus on teaching his disciples.

Jesus' Approach and Influence

Seated during the Sermon to foster approachability and a teaching atmosphere rather than a commanding presence.
Often compared to the Old Testament prophet Nathan for his use of parables to convey spiritual truth.

Beatitudes and Righteousness

First four beatitudes focus on the relationship with God; the last four on the relationship with others.
Beatitudes describe "blessed" as synonymous with "happy," indicating a deeper fulfillment.
To embody the Sermon’s characteristics, Christians must seek a "New Birth" through the Holy Spirit.

Comparison with Old Testament

The Sermon is likened to the five books of Moses (Torah), presenting a "new law" for followers to strive towards even amidst their imperfection.
Three types of righteousness discussed: legal, moral, and social.

Christian Influence and Responsibility

Christians are depicted as "salt and light," representing distinctive influences in the world.
Key lessons from these metaphors include acknowledging differences between Christians and non-Christians and embracing the responsibility these distinctions impose.

Scriptural Context and Fulfillment

Jesus viewed Scriptures as instrumental doctrinal teaching, with his life fulfilling the law rather than negating it.
Example of enduring persecution highlighted: Dietrich Bonhoeffer.

Miscellaneous

Emphasizes the significance of God’s sacrifice for forgiveness through Jesus’ death.
Encouragement for action encapsulated in the phrase "Nike; Just Do It."

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Description

This quiz serves as a study guide for middle-class students preparing for their midterm exam on the Sermon on the Mount, based on the teachings of Stott. It includes key concepts and definitions essential to understanding the material. Use these flashcards to reinforce your knowledge and grasp the core themes of this pivotal biblical text.