How to Be a Good Christian

 

Being a good Christian involves living with purpose. It is more than merely adhering to a set of religious beliefs or set of values. It requires a love of God and making your life’s purpose to serve Him. When you do this you will love others also. A good Christian life involves an active and transformative journey of faith lived in the Church Christ established for our healing, This involves nurturing our faith, taming our passions, developing virtues, and seeking repentance. These are all key elements for living a good Christian life.

Faith: To be a good Christian we must have relationship with God based on love. The foundation of this relationship is faith. As Orthodox Christians, we are encouraged to approach our faith with reverence, recognizing the mystical reality of the universe and God’s presence in all things. We see Scripture as a sacred account, a story told by eyewitnesses who encountered God's divine revelation. We should read it as a story and not as a philosophical or historical work. The Gospel story revels great mysteries about God and how with His love for humankind, He set about to prepare all of us for eternal life in His kingdom. By immersing ourselves in the Gospel story, we gain a deeper understanding of God's love and realize our purpose.

Nurturing Faith: Our faith needs to be nurtured. This involves regular participation in the life of the Church; attending services and actively engaging in the sacraments, especially Holy Communion. This allows us to receive God's grace needed for spiritual growth. We must also establish a daily routine of reading Scripture and praying for His help. By dedicating time to these practices, we open ourselves to a deeper communion with God. Bt surrounding ourselves with friends who share our faith provides encouragement and support for a good Christian life.

Taming Passions: Orthodox Christianity recognizes that we are engaged in a struggle against our passions, those desires that lead us away from God. These stem from our fallen condition and are amplified due to the evil forces in this world. Fasting is an important discipline prescribed by the Church to helps us gain mastery over these passions. By following fasting guidelines offered by the Church, we learn to control our physical appetites and redirect our focus towards God. This gives us the discipline needed to control all the other passions. To become a good Christian we need to understand all our weaknesses and acknowledge our bad habits. By recognizing our vulnerabilities, we can actively combat and overcome them with God's help.

Developing Virtues: Being a good Orthodox Christian also requires the cultivation of virtues. These are the qualities that reflect God's character. These are found in the commandments given to us by Jesus and the way he lived. The most important one is love. Loving God with our whole heart and loving others, even our enemies.  Knowing our weaknesses leads to knowing the virtues we most need to intentionally practice. For example, if we struggle with anger, we can actively pursue the development of patience. Through intentional and consistent practice, the essential virtues become part of our character, guiding our actions and interactions with others. In this way we align ourselves more closely with the example of Christ. Becoming like Him is the nature of a good Christian.

Repentance: God is forgiving and wants to help us. Recognizing our mistakes and seeking forgiveness and committing to changing our way of thinking and acting, is an essential aspect of the Christian life. None of us are perfect. We should each day undertake a self-reflection to evaluate our thoughts, words, and deeds in the light of God's commandments. Then to help us change in  line with God’s teachings, regularly attending the sacrament of confession provides a divine cleansing of all our sins, like baptism.  We will also receive spiritual guidance from a trusted spiritual father enlightened by the Holy Spirit. By humbly listening to our spiritual father's counsel, we gain valuable insights about the changes we need to make and suggestions how to implement them.

Conclusion: Being a good Christian requires a life of repentance. We must nurture our faith, tame our passions, uncover our weaknesses and develop the opposing virtues. Reading the Gospel daily as a sacred story will help us deepen our faith. A daily routine of prayer seeking God’s help will bring His grace. By fasting we will develop the needed discipline to overcome our passions. By associating with fellow believers we will be encouraged to live a life consistent with God’s commandments. All this together provides a solid foundation for living a good Christian life and fulfilling our purpose to become like Christ. This process we call Theosis.

Should We Distance Ourselves From Music That Does Not Respect God?

In the Orthodox Church, music is seen as an important way to lift one to heavenly heights. Therefore, we should choose music that nourishes our soul. St. John Chrysostom writes, 

"Nothing so uplifts the soul, gives it wings, liberates it from the earth, and promotes its values and scorn for everything of this world as does harmonious music and a divinely composed song.”

St. John of Kronstadt advises, 

"If the sounds of music evoke calm, pure, and holy sentiments, listen and nourish your soul. However, if they awaken passions in you, stop listening and turn away from both the sound and spirit of this music."

 Whenever he encountered anything in art, entertainment, or the culture that violated the sanctity of the soul, he would quote St. Paul, 

"For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers. (2 Timothy 4:3).

We should avoid music that brings disharmony or disrespects God. It is important to be aware that music can also inflame passions, making it difficult to control our desires, especially regarding sexuality. Modern music often plays on this passion. The lyrics of music, like the words we read or hear, are important.

Orthodox Christians are encouraged to discern whether music aligns with their spiritual values and contributes positively to their relationship with God. Some individuals may choose to distance themselves from artists whose work does not align with their beliefs. Others may adopt a more discerning approach, seeking to find and support artists whose work resonates with their faith.

While discernment is crucial, it would not be wise to fill one's soul or mind with music that does not respect or glorify God. The question of whether individuals should distance themselves from certain music is a personal and spiritual decision. Orthodox Christianity emphasizes discernment and the cultivation of one's spiritual life, striving for holiness and purity. Believers are encouraged to guard their hearts and minds against influences that may lead them away from God.

Ultimately, the decision to distance oneself from artists whose music does not respect or worship God should be guided by one's conscience, in consultation with their spiritual father within the Orthodox tradition. It is important to approach such decisions with humility, love, and respect for the individual journeys of faith that others may be on.

Why Do Some Christians View the Use of Icons as a Sin?

In today's Christian world, objections to the use of icons are generally not widespread. However, there are still some individuals and groups who object to the use of icons and even consider their use sinful.

The reasons for objections are based on a misunderstanding or fear of idolatry. Some may observe the veneration of icons in the Orthodox Church and mistakenly think they are being worshiped. This view is seen as a violation of the biblical commandment against creating “graven images” found in Exodus 20:4-5. In  ancient times “graven images” referred to physical representations of a deity or an object of worship were prevalent, even in the early years of Christianity during the time of Imperial Rome.

It is essential to distinguish between icons and “graven images.” The misconception comes from observing Orthodox Christians venerating icons, and thinking they are worshiping the images themselves. In Orthodox Christianity icons are not objects of worship; they are symbolic representation, serving as windows to the divine. Icons depict Christ, the Virgin Mary, saints, or biblical events and are intended to direct our thoughts and prayers towards the heavenly realities they depict. They serve as aids in contemplation and help foster our connection with the divine.

Historical factors also contribute to the objections against icons. There was a period of time when there were leaders of the Roman Empire who tried to eliminate the use of Icons. Some Byzantine emperors, such as Leo III (717-741 CE), were influenced by Islamic beliefs and policies and adopted iconoclastic positions as a way to align with their Muslim counterparts. This led to a bloody conflict with monks in many monasteries defending and protecting icons. The stance of these defenders, known as iconodules, eventually prevailed, and the Seventh Ecumenical Council in 787 CE affirmed the use and veneration of icons as an integral part of Orthodox Christian tradition. Orthodox commemorate this decision on Orthodox Sunday, the first Sunday of Great Lent. (Below is the affirmation of faith that is read by the Priest on this occasions)

Some objections to icons may also arise from theological perspectives influenced by the Protestant Reformation. The doctrine of the "priesthood of all believers" emerged during this period, emphasizing the direct access that every believer has to God's grace and forgiveness through their faith in Christ. Some Christians who hold this perspective may argue that a focus on icons distracts from a personal and direct relationship with God. They believe that the emphasis should be on the spiritual and internal aspects of faith, rather than on external representations.

It is worth emphasizing that objections to icons within contemporary Christianity are not representative of the broader Christian tradition, which includes the majority of Christian denominations that accept and value the use of icons as aids to worship and prayer. While objections to icons exist, it is important to foster understanding and respect for diverse perspectives within the broader Christian family. Icons are deeply valued as Holy Tradition in Orthodox Christianity as important tools that enrich our worship, deepen our spiritual journey, and connect us with the divine and the communion of saints. Those who object should not influence your Orthodox faith and practice to include icons in you prayer life.

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Note: Here is an except from the Affirmation of the Faith from the Seventh Ecumenical council that is read by the Priest in the procession of icons at the end of the Liturgy on this special day.

As the Prophets beheld; as the Apostles taught; as the Church received; as the Teachers dogmatized; as the Universe ha agreed; as Grace has shone forth; as Truth has been proven; a falsehood has been disproven; as Wisdom has been presented; a Christ has rewarded.

This is what we believe; this is what we declare; this is what we preach, Christ our true God, and we hon His Saints in words, in thought, in sacrifices, in Churches and Icons. Christ, we worship as God and Master, and His Saints we honor as true servants of our same Lord, and accordingly we grant them veneration.

This is the Faith of the Apostles!

This is the Faith of the Fathers!

This is the Faith of the Orthodox!

This is the Faith which has established the Universe!

Therefore, with brotherly and filial love, we praise these preachers of piety, for the glory and honor of their own pious struggle for the Faith, and we say: "Eternal be the memory of the defenders of Orthodoxy; pious Sovereigns, holy Patriarchs, Hierarchs, Teachers, Martyrs, and Confessors.

Why Would God Create Man With Love but Allow the Devil to Exist With Him?

Orthodox Christians believe that God created the world and humanity out of love and with a purpose. According to this belief, God's intention was to establish a loving relationship with humanity, allowing us to experience joy, love, fulfillment, and eternal life in His presence.

The existence of the devil and fallen angels is often understood within the context of human free will. In Christian theology, angels and humans were created with the ability to choose between good and evil. However, some angels using their free will, led by Lucifer (who became the devil), rebelled against God and chose to reject His love and authority. As a consequence, they were cast out of heaven and became adversaries to God and humanity.

God, being all-knowing and all-loving, allowed for the possibility of such rebellion because genuine love requires freedom. God did not create Lucifer as an evil being, but rather as a creature with the capacity to choose between good and evil. However, the consequences of Lucifer's rebellion resulted in his fall from grace and his transformation into the devil.

God's allowance of the devil's existence is often seen as a mystery within the context of divine providence. It is believed that God, in His wisdom, can bring about greater goods even through the existence of evil. The presence of the devil provides a testing ground for humanity, allowing us to exercise our free will and make choices that shape our character and spiritual growth. It also gives us the opportunity to demonstrate our love and loyalty to God by resisting temptation and aligning ourselves with goodness.

Additionally, God's ultimate plan is to triumph over evil and bring about the redemption and restoration of all creation. The existence of the devil is understood as temporary, and ultimately, God's victory over evil will be complete. In this understanding, God's allowance of the devil's existence is part of a larger narrative of redemption and the eventual establishment of His kingdom of love, justice, and righteousness.

Furthermore, the Christian understanding is that God does not will the damnation of any person. His desire is for all people to be saved and reconciled with Him. However, those who align themselves with evil and reject God's love and mercy ultimately choose separation from Him. Hell, therefore, is seen as the consequence of a person's rejection of God, rather than something imposed by God Himself.

God's act of creation and the existence of the devil and fallen angels are part of a larger narrative of love, free will, and spiritual growth. They provide opportunities for humans to choose God's love and to demonstrate their faith, while also allowing for the consequences of rejecting God's grace.

How Does an Orthodox Teenager Handle Having Non-Orthodox Friends.

Navigating friendships with individuals who may hold different beliefs or practices can be challenging for a teenager committed to their Orthodox faith. Here are some pieces of advice to help you handle these relationships with wisdom and grace:

We must remember that we are called—commanded by Christ, in fact!—to proclaim the Good News of Salvation to everyone—especially to those who have never heard it. If Christ had only hung around with religious people, the sinful woman would have never repented, the blind would have never been healed, the hopeless would have never been given hope, Zacchaeus would have never changed his life, etc. As Christ says, “I come not to save the righteous, but the sinner.” On the day of Pentecost, the apostles would have never proclaimed the Gospel to the multitudes if they had agreed to avoid everyone who did not hold the same religious beliefs. They would have stayed in the upper room, and the resurrection of Christ would have remained their private little secret. It is a grave sin not to share your faith, and explain the importance of the Gospel story and explain why you believe in The Father, Son and Holy Spirit. To hide your faith because you may be ridiculed isa denial of the Truth of your faith. An Orthodox Christian cannot believe and then shy away from others who have a different faith.

Stay grounded in your Orthodox faith maintaining a strong foundation in your own beliefs and practices. Regularly participate in church services, engage in personal prayer, and study the teachings of the Church, read the Gos[els regularly. This will help you deepen your understanding and strengthen your commitment to Orthodoxy.

Approach conversations with your non-Orthodox friends with love, respect, openness, and a willingness to listen. Seek to understand their perspectives and beliefs without fearing you will compromise your own convictions. Respectful dialogue can foster mutual understanding and friendship while allowing you to stay true to your Orthodox values.

Live out your Orthodox faith in a way that inspires others. Let your actions and behavior reflect the values you hold dear. Through your kindness, humility, and love, you can demonstrate the beauty of Orthodoxy to your friends, encouraging them to respect and appreciate your beliefs.

It's important to have healthy boundaries that align with Orthodox values. Communicate your boundaries respectfully and assertively, ensuring that your friends understand your limitations regarding activities or discussions that conflict with your faith. This will help maintain your integrity, while preserving the friendship.

Reach out to your Orthodox priest, youth group leader, or spiritual mentor for guidance and support. They can provide you with valuable advice, prayers, and encouragement as you navigate these friendships. Engaging with other Orthodox teenagers who face similar challenges can also be helpful and reassuring.

Offer prayers for your non-Orthodox friends, asking God to bless and guide them. Pray for their understanding, spiritual growth, and for opportunities to share your faith with them when appropriate. Trust in the transformative power of prayer.

Remember, the goal is not to isolate yourself from those who differ in their beliefs, but to maintain your Orthodox identity while being a positive influence in their lives. By staying true to your faith, fostering respectful dialogue, and setting healthy boundaries, you can navigate these relationships in a manner that honors both your Orthodox values and your friendships.

Don’t be preachy, at least with your words. Let your actions be an example of what an Orthodox Christian—and all mankind, for that matter—is called to be, and do, and live, and experience, and hope.

In conclusion, as an Orthodox teenager navigating friendships with non-Orthodox individuals, it is crucial to embrace the call to share the Good News of Salvation with everyone. Following the examples of Christ and the apostles, we must not shy away from engaging with those who hold different beliefs. Maintain a strong foundation in your Orthodox faith through prayer, church participation, and studying the teachings of the Church. Approach conversations with love, respect, and openness, seeking to understand others' perspectives while staying true to your convictions. Live out your faith through kind and loving actions, inspiring others to appreciate Orthodoxy. Set healthy boundaries aligned with your values, seek guidance from spiritual mentors, and offer prayers for your friends. Remember, your goal is to maintain your Orthodox identity while positively influencing their lives. 

Let your actions speak louder than words, exemplifying the calling of an Orthodox Christian and reflecting the hope and truth of your faith.

Why Do Some People Feel the Divine Liturgy is Boring?

It's understandable that individuals may have different experiences and feelings during the Divine Liturgy if they do not understand its purpose. The Divine Liturgy is a sacred and traditional form of worship that has been passed down from Apostolic times to commune with God.

The Divine Liturgy is a sacred ritual that involves the coming together of the Heavenly Kingdom and earthly life. It is not merely a performance or a formality. It is a time when we can enter into the presence of the God, participate in the mystery of Christ's sacrifice, and receive the actual Body and Blood of Christ. We do this each Liturgy to be cleansed, transformed, and strengthened in our ability to live as He commanded. 

If you find it boring it might be helpful to consider its purpose, to explore its content and identify the symbolism used. Every aspect of it has a spiritual meaning. Better understanding of the Divine Liturgy, will help make it more spiritually beneficial.

The Divine Liturgy encompasses a rich tapestry of traditions, rituals, prayers, readings and hymns that are always changing. Each Liturgy offers a different experience that varies based on the tone of music, the saints or feasts being celebrated, and the period of the liturgical year. This dynamic nature adds depth and variety to the Liturgy.

All senses are stimulated in the Divine Liturgy. The sense of hearing is stimulated by the beautiful music and the sounds of Scripture readings and prayers. The sense of smell is stimulated through the use of incense. The sense of taste is experienced in the taste of Holy Communion. The sense of touch is experienced when we venerate icons, when we kneel, or are blessed with holy water. The sense of sight is stimulated when we see the beauty of the icons, the light of candles, the actions of the processions and the colorful vestments.

There are eight tones of music used during the Divine Liturgy, along with melodies of various hymns that can greatly influence the overall atmosphere and emotional experience. Whether it's solemn chants, joyful hymns, or meditative melodies, the music aims to evoke a particular spiritual disposition, allowing individuals to connect with the sacred in diverse ways. Again remember the purpose, it is to connect with God.

Moreover, the celebration of various saints and feasts throughout the liturgical year brings a unique focus and theme to the Liturgy. This enables us to reflect on different aspects of our faith, commemorate important events in Christian history, and learn from the lives of holy men and women who have exemplified virtues and spiritual journeys.

There is a different Scripture lesson at each Liturgy based on the Church Lectionary, both a Epistle reading and a Gospel reading and then a sermon for understanding. Through these readings we learn about what God expects of us, teaching us how to become like Him for our salvation.

Recognizing the purpose of the Divine Liturgy and its changing nature, we are invited to be receptive and attentive participants seeking communion with God. Approaching the Liturgy with a clear purpose, an open heart filled with love of God, feeling humbled by our struggle to live up to His teachings, and seeking to receive the spiritual nourishment, the Divine Liturgy provides an opportunity for personal transformation and growth, fostering a deeper connection with God.

Some people develop an irreverent habit of coming late to the service and some even come after the sacred Scripture readings. This should be avoided. It indicates a lack in understanding the purpose of the Liturgy and lack of reverence toward God. For Orthodox Christians attending a Divine Liturgy is not something we do to fulfill some kind of obligation. It should be an intentional choice to enter a sacred space with the purpose to commune with God. This choice should be made based on love of God and a sincere desire to commune with Him. 

It is also important to properly prepare before attending the Liturgy. We are expected to be living an Orthodox way of life with a daily prayer routine, regular repentance, fasting on Wednesdays and Fridays, and helping others. We should settle all our grievances before attending, asking for forgiveness and forgiving the transgressions of others. There is also a fast required beginning at midnight before a Liturgy where we have nothing to eat or drink. This enhances our desire, our sincerity, in anticipating a divine meal of His Body and Blood, an indescribable gift, that is offered in Holy Communion.

Remember that the Divine Liturgy, calls us to a deeper level of engagement and understanding, inviting us to commune with God, to grow in faith, humility, and love. The Liturgy is not intended to entertain or provide instant gratification. While it's natural to experience moments of restlessness or find certain aspects less engaging, approaching the Liturgy with the right purpose and understanding can open a receptive attitude leading to a more profound and transformative spiritual experience.

Reference

Divine Liturgy Explained: https://www.orthodoxprayer.org/Divine_Liturgy/Divine Liturgy-Introduction.html

How Can We Identify Weaknesses that Lead us to Sin?

Understanding our weaknesses that often lead us to sin is crucial, but all too frequently, we are blind to these flaws. This recognition requires introspection and an earnest desire to identify both your strengths and weaknesses. This is a task that demands tranquility and solitude. Find a quiet place where you can reflect and pray. Begin by asking the Holy Spirit to illuminate your understanding.

Remember, everyone has weaknesses similar to yours. As you identify your weaknesses you will make significant strides in your spiritual journey. It's important not to let feelings of despair creep in. You may grapple with feelings of worthlessness in God's eyes, but as you identify and overcome these issues, you'll gain confidence experiencing God’s Love. We are never wholly worthy in God's sight. God calls us to become perfect, but is joyful knowing you are continually working toward this aim out of your love of Him. Perfecting ourselves to become more Christ-like is a lifelong endeavor called Theosis.

If you find it difficult to identify any obvious weakness, consider the traits you criticize in others. What you dislike in them is likely a reflection of what lurks within your own soul. Such insights may provide vital clues about your path.

While you sit in quiet reflection, review the guidelines for living provided by Jesus in Scripture. It's especially beneficial to study the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) where Jesus expands on the Ten Commandments' demands (Exodus 20:1-17). I have provided specific verses for your reflection from both sections below. There are other Scripture verses you can use as well.

A helpful way to engage in this self-discovery process is to make a list. Write the behaviors outlined in Scripture in one column and in the column opposite, note down how you currently live up to each of these expectations. Don't be discouraged. Be gentle with yourself. What you're undertaking is a task God will regard with joy.

Once you've completed this, look over what you've written and identify any patterns. Ideally, you will start to recognize one primary passion or tendency that's influencing your behavior. This will be the root of your sinfulness and the first thing you should begin to address. It's important to identify one key weakness to start overcoming.

Remember, as you embark on this journey, seek divine guidance. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you. Pray for the insight you need to make necessary life changes. Go to Holy Confession and seek the advice of your spiritual father, who will welcome you with great joy knowing you're striving to make changes to please God.

This process doesn't end here. Ideally, it should become an ongoing journey of self-discovery and improvement. It's like peeling an onion; as you uncover and overcome each weakness, you'll reveal a new layer, a new set of opportunities to become more like Christ. As you continue on this path, you'll find yourself drawing closer to God. Each step will bring more grace and aid to your journey.

Here are some passages to contemplate:

A. The Ten Commandments 

These provide foundational principles for moral living. Here are the commandments with related points for self-examination:

1. You shall have no other gods before me. Reflect on whether God is truly at the center of your life, or if other "gods" (work, money, hobbies, etc.) have taken precedence.

2. You shall not make for yourself an idol. Consider if there is anything in your life that you prioritize or revere more than God.

3. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. Reflect on your respect for God's name in your speech and actions.

4. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Examine your observance of the Sabbath or Sunday rest and worship.

5. Honor your father and your mother. Reflect on your relationship with your parents and if you treat them with due respect.

6. You shall not murder. This can be expanded to examine whether you harbor anger or resentment towards others.

7. You shall not commit adultery. Consider your purity in thoughts, words, and deeds, whether you're single or married.

8. You shall not steal. Reflect on your respect for others' property and rights.

9. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. Examine your truthfulness and honesty.

10. You shall not covet. Reflect on contentment and gratitude in your life.

B. Sermon on the Mount

These are key points in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew Chapters 5-7), which could serve as points for self-examination:

1. The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12): These blessings pronounced by Jesus describe the attitudes that characterize a Christian life – humility, meekness, righteousness, mercy, purity of heart, peacemaking, and willingness to endure persecution.

2. Salt and Light (Matthew 5:13-16): Jesus calls his followers to be the "salt of the earth" and the "light of the world," to influence the world positively by their good deeds and upright character.

3. Fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17-20): Jesus explains that he has come to fulfill the law, not abolish it, and exhorts his followers to pursue a righteousness that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees.

4. Teachings on Anger, Adultery, Divorce, Oaths (Matthew 5:21-37): Jesus goes deeper into the spirit of the law, explaining that anger is as destructive as murder, lustful thoughts as adulterous as the act itself, and emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the importance of keeping one's word.

5. Teachings on Revenge and Love for Enemies (Matthew 5:38-48): Jesus teaches the radical love of not resisting an evil person and loving one's enemies.

6. Teachings on Giving to the Needy, Prayer, and Fasting (Matthew 6:1-18): Jesus advises that acts of righteousness should not be done for show, and provides guidance on prayer (including the Lord's Prayer) and fasting.

7. Teachings on Treasures in Heaven (Matthew 6:19-24): Jesus encourages his followers to store up treasures in heaven rather than earthly wealth, and warns against serving two masters – God and money.

8. Teachings on Worry (Matthew 6:25-34): Jesus counsels against worry, teaching reliance on God who cares for all our needs.

9. Judging Others (Matthew 7:1-6): Jesus warns against judging others while ignoring our own faults.

10. Ask, Seek, Knock (Matthew 7:7-12): Jesus encourages persistent prayer, seeking, and knocking, and reiterates the Golden Rule: "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you..."

11. The Narrow and Wide Gates (Matthew 7:13-14): Jesus describes the narrow gate and difficult path that leads to life and the wide gate and broad road that leads to destruction.

12. True and False Prophets, and True and False Disciples (Matthew 7:15-23): Jesus warns about false prophets and the importance of discernment, and emphasizes that only those who do the will of the Father will enter the kingdom of heaven.

13. The Wise and Foolish Builders (Matthew 7:24-27): Jesus concludes his sermon with the parable of wise and foolish builders, emphasizing the importance of not just hearing his words, but acting upon them.

C. The Great Commandment

While the Great Commandment that Jesus gives in Matthew 22:36-40 is not technically part of the Sermon on the Mount, it is fundamental to Christian ethics and is certainly an excellent addition for self-examination. It can indeed be viewed as a summary of the main messages of the Sermon on the Mount and the Ten Commandments. The Great Commandment says:

1. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. Here, you can reflect on your relationship with God. Do you put God first in your life? How does your love for God manifest in your thoughts, words, and deeds? Do you dedicate time for prayer, reading Scripture, worship, and other spiritual practices?

2. Love your neighbor as yourself. The second commandment is equally important. In your reflection, consider your relationships with others. Do you treat people with kindness, respect, and generosity? Are there relationships in your life that need forgiveness or reconciliation? Do you show care for the poor, the sick, the marginalized?

Remember that love in the Christian understanding is not just about feelings, but actions. The Apostle John wrote, "Dear children, let us not love with words or speech, but with actions and in truth" (1 John 3:18). As you reflect on the Great Commandment, think about the ways your love for God and neighbor translates into concrete actions in your daily life.

D. Other important Passages

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus often expands on the key teachings presented in the Sermon on the Mount. While the Sermon provides a concise and powerful blueprint for Christian living, the Gospels as a whole offer a richer and more detailed picture of Jesus' teachings. Here are a few examples:

1. On Loving One's Enemies: In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus expands on the command to love one's enemies and neighbors by illustrating that everyone, even those who may be culturally, religiously, or socially different from us, is our neighbor and deserving of our love and help.

2. On Judging Others: In John 8:1-11, Jesus responds to those ready to stone a woman caught in adultery by stating, "Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her," emphasizing the message against judging others.

3. On Giving to the Needy: In Matthew 25:31-46, the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, Jesus expands on the idea of giving to the needy by saying that whatever we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do for Him.

4. On Praying: Apart from the Lord's Prayer given in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus also models a life of constant prayer and teaches about persistency in prayer (Luke 18:1-8), praying in faith (Mark 11:22-25), and the importance of humility in prayer (Luke 18:9-14).

5. On Seeking God's Kingdom: Jesus frequently teaches about the kingdom of God in His parables (e.g., the Parable of the Mustard Seed, Matthew 13:31-32; the Parable of the Hidden Treasure, Matthew 13:44). These parables offer various insights into what it means to seek first the kingdom of God.

6. On Living out God's Word: In John 15:1-17, Jesus speaks about the importance of remaining in Him (like branches on a vine) to bear much fruit, underscoring the necessity of living in accordance with His teachings.

This is by no means an exhaustive list. The teachings of Jesus found throughout the New Testament all work together to provide a comprehensive guide for Christian living, and can serve as additional material for personal self-examination and spiritual growth.

Reference:

Preparing for Confession:

https://www.stgeorgegreenville.org/our-faith/catechism/mysteries/confession