A message from the pastor

Jesus as the new "Moses"
A message by Rev. Ron Mahler
Hey everyone! I thought I would submit some thoughts on the whole concept of Jesus - being presented by Matthew in His gospel, as the new "Moses." The parallels in their lives and ministries are undoubtedly clear - from their infant challenge to survive, to their giving of the Law to the nation of Israel. In Jesus' case - He brought the Law out and gave it a new look. One of my favourite portions of Scripture (if that is okay to say) - in the entire Bible, is the "Sermon on the Mount" (Matthew 5-7) Let me be clear: it is not my favourite because it is an easy read - or because it is highly understandable in all areas! In the "Sermon" - the Lord covers many topics and issues that are directly related to some aspect of the Law of Moses. As one reads over the S.O.M. they become aware by the Lord’s words, that the religious leaders and priests of His day had gotten in the way of the Law's proper interpretation. Though they were Israel's "teachers" they were neither leading or teaching the people, in the way that Moses did. I believe the Lord was referring to them when He would say, repeatedly, "You have heard it said, but I tell you..." For me, the Sermon on the Mount is the highest standard of Christian ethic and living. If you want to know "What Would Jesus Do?" on practically every issue facing a Christian in their cultural context today, check out Matthew 5-7.
On days that I am lacking in faith - I read the Sermon, and think: "This is impossible to live out!" Yet even if it appears to be so, I am thankful that we have the Lord's words to clarify matters of the Old Testament Law, and to put "skin on its bones" so to speak. I am thankful as well, that we don't have to be content with a legalistic take on the Law's interpretation (which Israel was under) - thanks to the counsel of the Pharisees et al. Indeed the Lord came to free us from weighty yokes of religious do’s and don’ts, which only scratched the surface of spiritual life. Rather, Jesus came to move us from the cavernous dungeons of religious superficiality, to the real thing. What is that? The S.O.M. shows us that the true aim of Christian, spiritual life - is all about how we relate in relationships - with God and with others. The Law puts it this way: "Love the Lord with all your heart, soul ... and love your neighbour as yourself." Then, in the "Sermon" itself, Jesus remarks: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets." Matthew 7:12. Do yourself a giant, spiritual favour: keep a bookmark in the Sermon On The Mount. There are lots of self-help books on the shelves of stores today - and perhaps some of them are quite profitable for reading. However, the greatest one - is a part of a greater Book, in fact, the greatest ever to be written! A perpetual bestseller! In it - you’ll find Matthew 5-7.