How does Jesus teach us to live? Should Christians take oaths? In this episode Noël, Esther and Mark look at Matthew 5.33–48 and discuss Jesus' countercultural teaching on oath taking and non-violent resistance. We're reminded of Jesus continually calling his followers to live by a higher standard, laying down their rights for the good of others. We finish by looking at how we're called to imitate Christ by caring for the poor and loving our enemies.

Timestamps

• (00:00) - Intro
• (00:54) - Part 1: Matthew 5.33–37: Swearing Oaths
• (01:37) - Context of swearing oaths
• (03:20) - Why swear an oath?
• (04:45) - Insincerity in oath taking
• (06:35) - Do we take oaths today?
• (10:20) - Integrity, allegiance and idolatry
• (14:53) - Part 2: Matthew 5.38–42: Turn the other cheek
• (15:42) - Context of the Old Testament and Roman occupation
• (19:37) - Natural human response vs what Jesus says (resistance)
• (22:05) - How do we interpret Jesus' teaching on giving?
• (25:45) - How can we give to the poor?
• (28:20) - Part 3: Matthew 5.43–48: Love your enemies
• (29:17) - Jesus' higher way
• (30:12) - What would good look like for my enemy?
• (33:47) - Should we hate our enemies?
• (36:12) - Jesus expands our circle of concern
• (37:52) - How can we be perfect?

Send us your questions!
We'd love to hear from you. We'll be compiling some questions for the final episode of the series which will be a Q and A.
Submit your question

Bible a Month
Could you put the Bible in someone’s hands every month with a regular donation of £10 or more? Find out more about how you can share God's word today.

Bible Society:

The Rooted Podcast is brought to you by Bible Society, a Christian organisation that translates, publishes, and distributes the Bible. We communicate its relevance and invite people to experience the transforming power of the Scriptures in today’s world. Visit our website to find out more.

Rooted:
Rooted is our devotional journal that helps make the Bible available to everyone, everywhere. Every other month, you’ll receive a new 80-page journal filled with insightful devotionals, thought-provoking prompts, and lots of opportunities to reflect, journal and be creative. Sign up today to receive your first journal for free.

Socials:

Bible Society: Facebook | Instagram | X (formerly Twitter)

Disclaimer:

This is a Bible Society podcast, but it’s also a conversation between people exploring the Bible together. We won’t get everything right, and we won’t always agree! Please be patient with us and join us on the journey.