How does the fifth chapter of the Gospel of Matthew begin?

The fifth chapter of the Gospel of Matthew opens one of the most famous portions of the entire New Testament: Jesus Christ's Sermon on the Mount. In this chapter, Christ begins to explain the principles of the Kingdom of God, which reach far deeper than mere outward adherence to religious rules. He shows what the character of those who desire to live with God ought to be.

The Beginning of the Sermon on the Mount

The chapter begins with a description of how Jesus addresses the people who have gathered to hear Him. The evangelist Matthew writes:

"And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him. Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying: 'Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven'" (Matthew 5:1–3).

This moment carries deep significance. In biblical times, a teacher would often sit down when beginning an important discourse. Therefore, this scene shows Jesus solemnly inaugurating His foundational teaching on life in the Kingdom of God. His disciples draw near to Him, but a great multitude of people is also listening nearby.

According to the Adventist understanding, the Sermon on the Mount is not a new law, but an exposition of the true spirit of God's Law.

The Beatitudes

The opening words of the sermon are the well-known "Beatitudes." Jesus describes the spiritual qualities of those who belong to God's Kingdom:

"Blessed are the poor in spirit… Blessed are those who mourn… Blessed are the meek… Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness… Blessed are the merciful… Blessed are the pure in heart… Blessed are the peacemakers… Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake" (Matthew 5:3–10).

Here, Christ turns conventional human notions of happiness upside down. The world often calls the strong, the wealthy, or the influential happy. But Jesus says that true blessing comes to those who are humble before God, who seek righteousness, and who are pure in heart.

Ellen White, in the book "Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing," explains that the Beatitudes describe the progressive development of the Christian character. A person first realizes their spiritual need, then repents, learns meekness, longs for righteousness, and ultimately becomes an instrument of peace for others.

Salt of the Earth and Light of the World

Following the Beatitudes, Jesus explains the mission of His followers in the world:

"You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:13–14).

In biblical times, salt preserved food from decay. It serves as a symbol that God's people are called to restrain the moral degeneration of society. Light, on the other hand, symbolizes truth that guides people to God.

Christ calls us not to hide our faith:

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

In this way, faith must be demonstrated not merely in words, but in daily life.

Jesus and the Law of God

Next, Christ speaks profoundly significant words concerning the Law of God:

"Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill" (Matthew 5:17).

For Seventh-day Adventists, this passage holds special meaning because it affirms the immutability of God's moral Law, including the Ten Commandments. Jesus does not abolish the Law; He reveals its true depth.

For instance, Christ clarifies that sin originates not only in outward actions, but also in the thoughts and intentions of the heart:

"Whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment" (Matthew 5:22).

"Whoever looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart" (Matthew 5:28).

These words show that God's righteousness touches not only outward conduct, but also a person's inner life.

Love Even for Enemies

One of the most radical parts of this chapter is the call to love one's enemies:

"Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you" (Matthew 5:44).

Such an attitude reflects the very character of God. Jesus explains that the Heavenly Father sends the sun and rain on the just and on the unjust alike. Therefore, Christ's followers are called to manifest that same selfless love.

Ellen White emphasized that genuine Christianity is revealed precisely in how we treat those who mistreat us. Love for our enemies is proof that God's grace is transforming the human heart.

Conclusion

Thus, the fifth chapter of Matthew begins with Jesus ascending a mountain, sitting down, and beginning to teach His disciples and the multitudes. The opening words of the Sermon on the Mount are the Beatitudes—a portrait of the character of the citizens of God's Kingdom.

In this chapter, Christ shows:

• what the citizens of God's Kingdom must be like;
• what role believers play in the world;
• that God's Law reaches far deeper than outward rules;
• that true righteousness begins in the heart.

The practical application of these words lies in examining our lives daily in the light of Christ's teaching. Do we seek purity of heart, mercy, and peace? Do we allow God to transform our character? When believers live by the principles of the Sermon on the Mount, they become a light to the world and reflect the character of Jesus Christ.