Review: Let's take a step back as we begin and just come back to our two formational questions for this series: (1) What has the Holy Spirit been saying to you through this Sermon on the Mount series so far, and (2) how have you been prompted to obey Him? How is that going for you?​

Take a moment in prayer, welcoming the Spirit's presence.  Then read over the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:2-12). ​

​Phil asked us again on Sunday, "Where are you from?" As we consider Jesus' teaching on the nearness of the kingdom of God, why is our answer to this question so important?

The whole context of the Sermon on the Mount indicates that Jesus' purpose is to proclaim a) repentance, and b) the gospel of the kingdom of God and healing every division among us. Why do you think Repentance and Healing are so significant to how we think about this entire Sermon?

John Stott wrote that the Sermon on the Mount "describes what human life and human community look like when they come under the gracious rule of God." If kingdom life is so wonderful, why is it so difficult and rare?

Phil also mentioned someone who said that rejection and persecution are just as much a part of discipleship as being pure in heart and merciful. Do you agree? Has this been true in your own experience? Why or why not?

Jesus said that those who follow Him would be persecuted for His sake and for the sake of righteousness. How DO we respond to persecution? How SHOULD we respond to persecution? (As you consider, keep in mind the earlier beatitude that says, "Blessed are the meek.")

If persecution is a sign of where we're from and who we belong to, what does it say if we're not encountering resistance for being a Christ-follower? Are there any particular areas where you have compromised your faith or given in to the culture?

Phil recommended two responses to this week's message:

1. ​Prayer. For us (Mt. 6, the Lord's Prayer) and for others (Heb. 13:3). Be a faithful pray-er this week!

2. Rejoicing. "Jump for joy!" Find a place for MUSIC and for THANKSGIVING in your life this week!