Matthew 5

Session 5: Extra Mile Mentality

Big Idea

Jesus used the power of an extra-mile mentality to gain the attention of someone who might otherwise ignore Him.

Discussion

• What are some foods you refuse to eat without salt or some kind of seasoning? Don’t feel like you need to rush this discussion.

• Open up Matthew 5:13 together.

Discuss the following questions with your group as you read through the text. If your group is larger, consider breaking into smaller groups.

1. Jesus made a comparison between how we treat people and the salt on food. What does it look like when believers are salt-of-the-earth people?

2. Jesus went on to argue that when salt loses its purpose, it gets thrown out and trampled on. How do you react to that statement, knowing His followers are the salt?

• Read Matthew 5:41 in a few different versions together.

1. Have you been forced to go the extra mile for someone when it wasn’t convenient?

2. Have you ever had someone go the extra mile for you?

3. Have you ever gone the extra mile when someone wronged you?

• What sometimes prevents us from wanting to go the extra mile?

In the Gospels, Jesus flipped upside-down what it means to truly influence others for lasting change. Here in Matthew 5, we see the power of extra-mile mentality to gain the attention of someone who might otherwise ignore the call of Jesus. This is our prayer this week:

Jesus, remove my pride when the moment hits, so I can go the extra mile when it counts. May I be the salt of the earth in the little moments with the people who need it the most. Amen.

End the group by asking members to share in the group text any experiences they have with the work God does in their lives through these prayers.