I think there are many challenges presented in these chapters. I think that even though Jesus spoke these words nearly 2000 years ago much of it is relevant to us today. I find it an uplifting passage & something I try to aspire to as I live my life as a Christian. 

The first time I read it I thought "how on earth I'm I going to do this!?" , But now it doesn't seem as bad. Still difficult but not as bad.

Mainly 5:13-16, 39-48

I  agree with you, Jo, I would like to live there too! But I am not that positive about people flocking in...nowadays people want all things fast and easy, immediately. Something that demands a bit of concentration, reflexion and/or work are just avoided or ignored. I hope this trend will be over soon.

• i agree with Rachel, it is very challenging too live your life based on the sermon..... Also  trying too spread Gods  message too others would also be challenging..... I suppose not impossible though  

Posted by: Stuart Wright

 

• Also  trying too spread Gods  message too others would also be challenging..... I suppose not impossible though  

 

   

That's a hugely important point as well. When we realise something of what living as a follower of Jesus is supposed to mean it makes us realise how important it is to spell out the real cost of choosing to follow Him.

And we see time and time again, not just in this Sermon, Jesus making it clear to people that the life of a disciple was costly.

I think we (thinking about Christians in the West - which is a big generalisation!) have lost a proper understanding of this which is a real problem.