Holy Boldness

• He pronounces banishment as the Divine Judge, • Allegiance to Him provokes persecution; • He alone fully knows the will of his father.

It is methodologically indefensible for Biblical scholars to complain that all such themes are later Christian additions.… Jesus’ authority is unique and the crowds recognized it even if they did not always understand it. 25 The point of the final parable and indeed, the point of the entire sermon, was that Jesus was the key to everything and that obedience or disobe dience to His word forms a basis for judgment. From this point on, Jesus would allow Himself to be both a unifying and dividing factor because His coming was a redefining of everything. 1. The beatitudes are a description of the disposition and inner life of a person who is blessed. 2. In His reinterpretation of the law- “you have heard it was said… but I say to you…” - Jesus claims and asserts His authority over traditional interpretations of the law, including Moses. 3. Secret obedience and private discipline create intimacy and favor with God. 4. Seeking the kingdom of God first brings peace, clarity of focus, and assurance. 5. Judging others invites personal scrutiny. 6. And finally, Jesus will personally oversee a coming judgment. Careful consideration and application of His words are the decisive factors in the outcome of that judgment. Think back over the whole message of the sermon on the mount:

25

Ibid. p 195

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