Stephen Manley

Commentary on Matthew 5 (Part 2) Stephen Manley

In this exegetical commentary on the second half of Matthew 5, beware of the jolt. What Jesus proposed for the formation of the Kingdom was radical-focusing on our weaknesses instead of our strengths is the opposite action from all other religions. To declare our helplessness is to admit we cannot "do it." All other religions encourage us to try harder, work more, and be stronger. Now, in the application, Jesus steps into the arena of our daily lives. He talks about the best that our attempts, tries, and struggles can do. He compares this with what the unity of God and man in the Kingdom brings about. This relationship is not a new set of rules or a list of duties for us to perform. This is the Spirit of Jesus moving in us! He contrasts self-sourcing with Spirit- sourcing. Man's best effort is compared with the best effort of God and man united in the Kingdom. He declares that man's discipline cannot be compared with the wonder of Jesus' Spirit of discipline in the man. That declaration is the big jolt!The Cross Style Commentary series combines expositional study in the Word of God with practical application for real-world living.