Be Holy (Matthew 5 17-37)
<p>In this episode, we delve into the impressive capabilities of SpaceX's Falcon Heavy Rocket, the largest rocket in existence today. We explore its immense power, capable of producing over 5,000,000 pounds of thrust, and its ability to carry payloads up to 140,000 pounds. The rocket's journey, whether to Mars or into orbit, requires a significant amount of fuel, with one-third used in the first mile alone to overcome inertia.<br /><br />We then draw a fascinating parallel between the rocket's launch and the acceleration phase of a 100-meter dash in track and field. Just as the rocket needs a powerful start to overcome inertia, sprinters must maximize their force application in the first few steps to achieve top speed.<br /><br />Transitioning to a spiritual perspective, we discuss the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew chapters 5 through 7. The teachings of Jesus present a different story about the world, one that requires overcoming the inertia of the status quo to live in a new way. We explore the concept of holiness, distinguishing it from mere self-improvement. Holiness, as Jesus teaches, is about being wholly devoted to the work and will of God, rather than focusing on personal betterment.<br /><br />We challenge the traditional checklist approach to holiness, exemplified by the Pharisees, and emphasize the importance of valuing and protecting others. Jesus' teachings call for a shift from personal righteousness to an active interest in the well-being of our fellow human beings, even at our own expense. This episode encourages listeners to rethink their understanding of holiness and embrace a life devoted to God's work.<br /><br /><p>(00:00) Introduction to the Falcon Heavy Rocket</p><p>(01:31) US Track and Field Olympic Trials</p><p>(05:27) The Sermon on the Mount: Overcoming Inertia</p><p>(07:00) Redefining Holiness</p><p>(12:21) The Righteousness of the Pharisees vs. God's Righteousness</p><p>(17:23) Holiness and the Protection of Others</p><p>(19:05) Closing Prayer</p><br /><br /><strong>Matthew 5:17-37<br /></strong>"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven. "You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, 'Raca,' is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell. "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny. "You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to stumble, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell. "It has been said, 'Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.' But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, makes her the victim of adultery, and anyone who marries a divorced woman commits adultery. "Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but fulfill to the Lord the vows you have made.' But I tell you, do not swear an oath at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne; or by the earth, for it is his footstool; or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the Great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make even one hair white or black. All you need to say is simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.<br /><br /></p> Central is proud to be a place<br /><ul><li>where all generations worship, grow, and serve together.</li><li>where women and men have equal opportunities for leadership.</li><li>where traditional worship is engaged with excellence.</li><li>and where diverse approaches to Christian faith and theology all find themselves at home under the lordship of Christ.</li></ul>You can support our ministry by sending a gift via <a href="https://onrealm.org/centralbaptistnewnan/Give" target="_blank">onrealm.org/centralbaptistnewnan/Give</a><br /><br />Want to learn more about Central? Visit our website at <a href="https://centralbaptistnewnan.org/" target="_blank">centralbaptistnewnan.org</a> or give us a call at 770-683-0610. <br /><br />
