Matthew 5:1-26.

Here begins Jesus’ discourse on how believers are different. We are to behave differently, have different values, and be of different character than the world around us. Where the world values pride, we are to be humble. Where the world values safety, we are to consider being persecuted a blessing. Although we’re taught not to murder, we aren’t even to be angry! And this shouldn’t be a surprise to us, because God’s Word has always taught a higher standard and Jesus is encouraging us to embrace it. We are to be examples of that higher standard, which means we are to be salt and light to the world around us.