Sermon on the Mount: Beyond the Rulebook

I. The Question: What About the Law? (Matthew 5:17-18)

II. The Warning: Righteousness That Exceeds (Matthew 5:19-20)

 

III. The Big Picture: From Rebellion to Redemption 

IV. The Way Forward: Living the Law Through Love 

 Small Group Discussion Questions

 

1. How does knowing that Jesus has fulfilled the Law affect your relationship with God and your sense of identity as a follower of Christ? 

 

2. Read Romans 10:4. What does it mean for Christ to be the “end” (or culmination) of the Law? How does this connect to the sermon’s point that Jesus’ fulfillment means we’re not defined by our failures to keep the Law? How does trusting Jesus change how you live for God?  

 

3. The sermon warned against legalism—judging others by personal standards (e.g., music, clothes). Where have you seen or struggled with legalism in your life or church?  

 

4. Go to Luke 10:25-37 and read the Good Samaritan story. What actions show the Samaritan loving his neighbor, unlike the priest and Levite? How do these actions match the heart-based righteousness Jesus calls for in Matthew 5:17-20? What does this have to do with the Sermon on the Mount?  

5. How can you show similar compassion to someone in your life this week, reflecting the love Jesus empowers us to live out?