Summer on the Mount: Stop Following the Rules

Matthew 5:17–20

As a child, what rule did you break that got you into the most trouble? What about this ole made it so difficult to follow?

What is your basis for the moral decisions you make?

How does Jesus emphasize His high view of Old Testament Scripture? Is Jesus' attitude toward Scripture significant to you? Why?

How would you describe how Jesus fulfills the Law and the Prophets? (5:17)

What's your view of the Old Testament? Do you regularly read from the OT? Why or why not?

Is it possible or impossible to have the righteousness that Jesus describes in Matthew 5:20? Why?

How does this passage confront both our temptation toward legalism and toward licentiousness?

Do you value Scripture like Jesus does? How can you grow in your love and appreciation for God's Word? What worked for you in the past?

What or who am I trusting in for eternal life? (5:20) How would you tell your coworker, neighbor, classmate, friend, or family member how to enter the kingdom of heaven?

Is your gospel presentation crystal clear in your own mind? Is it true to Scriptures?

Discuss the correlation between a person's view of Scripture and their spiritual health. (Remember, the goal of Scripture is not just to inform, but to transform.)