Saturday, May 20, 2017

Matthew Chapter 6

Read Matthew chapter 6.

Reading this chapter, the word "foundational" comes to mind.  There are two sections:  foundational disciplines (6:1-18) and foundational decisions (6:19-34).


  1. Foundational spiritual disciplines  (6:1-18) > practices
    • Charity (6:1-4) > generosity, secrecy
    • Prayer (6:5-15) > simplicity, secrecy, forgiveness
    • Fasting (6:16-18) > secrecy
  2. Foundational personal decisions (6:19-34) > priorities
    • Treasure (6:19-21) > heaven or earth? 
    • Filter (6:22-23) > clean and clear or unclean and unclear?
    • Master (6:24) > God or money?
    • Provisions (6:25-34) > God (trust) or self (worry)?
Observations:
  • In section 1, notice that each spiritual discipline is introduced by the words "when you."  Practicing the spiritual disciplines is expected, normative behavior for a Christian.
  • In section 2, notice the tendency for self to say, "Yes, of course" to the right answer in each decision. Beware deception!
  • What "lights you up"? (6:22-23)

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