Key Bible Passage(s):

Matthew 5-7

‘These are said to be impossible ideals … We reply that the very essence and genius of discipleship is the realization of the impossible.   It is just because the Church of Jesus Christ has stood in the presence of His teaching and said: ‘Impossible’ that she has become so weak and forceless in all the affairs of this busy age’.

G. Campbell Morgan

The Sermon on the Mount is generally regarded as capturing the essence of Jesus’ own vision for discipleship. In it He not only paints the portrait of a disciple but explore the mechanics of realising that vision in the reality of our own everyday lives.

Once in each of the three years of DTP (perhaps during the summer break), schedules a Study Day. It’s a chance to get together in a more relaxed environment, to eat together, pray together and study together. I’d suggest providing breakfast, coffee and refreshments, and iviting those who come to participate in a Bring ‘n’ Share lunch.

In Year 1, the Study Day focusses on the Sermon on the Mount. The day breaks down into manageable chunks with coffee breaks and opportunities to pray and to discuss in groups built into the structure. The suggested teaching and associated powerpoints reflect this.

As ever, the resources are provided without prejudice. You may wish to use them as they are; or to adapt them as you feel appropriate. You may wish to write your own material, or to strucutre the day differently to how it is suggested here. The crucial thing is to engage with the text of Jesus’ sermon directly.

Suggested Structure for Study Day 1:

8.30 Breakfast

9.00 Introduction & prayer (in Groups)

9.30 Public life of Discipleship (5:1-16)

10.30 Coffee

11.00 Public Life of Discipleship (5:17-37)

11.40 Group Study & Feedback

12.30 Public Life of Discipleship (5:38-48)

1.00 Bring ‘n’ Share Lunch

2.00  Hidden Life of Devotion (6:1-34)

3.00    Refreshments

3.30  Guarded Life of Discretion (7:1-29)

Closing Prayer