This unit is designed to help students understand the call to live in authentic relationship with Christ in every aspect of their lives. The teachings from the Sermon on the Mount will help students discover the character, attitudes, and dangers of the Christian life.
Lesson 1: Kingdom Character--With Jesus coming to earth, God's kingdom came to earth too. In describing the character of Kingdom people, Jesus calls all people to become children of God. (Matthew 5:1-10)
Lesson 2: Authentic Christianity--Jesus challenges us to avoid hypocrisy by being truly righteous rather than merely acting religious. (Matthew 6:1-8, 16-18; 7:21-27)
Lesson 3: Putting Him First--Jesus challenges us to make His priorities our priorities. (Matthew 6:19-34; 19:16-30)
Lesson 4: Be Different!--Jesus challenges us to move beyond religious dos and don'ts by practicing forgiveness, love, purity, and acceptance in all our relationships. (Matthew 5:17-48)
Jim Hampton is the Assistant Professor of Youth Ministry at Asbury Seminary, in Wilmore, KY. Prior to his position, Jim served as the Executive Editor for Barefoot Ministries, the Sr. Youth Ministry Editor for Nazarene Youth International, and as a youth pastor in Kansas City. Jim holds a Masters of Divinity from Nazarene Theological Seminary, and a Doctorate of Philosophy from the University of Kansas. Jim brings his wealth of experience and knowledge together in this, his third book for Christian youth.