Introduction

In the last lesson, we learned that following Jesus can often mean we need to give up certain things. The first four men Jesus called to follow him all had the same job. Do you remember what it was? (They were all fishermen.)
Today, we will learn about some of the things that Jesus taught about how we should live.

Bible Story

One day, Jesus saw a crowd of people. So, he went up to the side of a mountain and sat down
among them. There, he began to teach them.
“God blesses people,” Jesus said. “He blesses:
Those who depend on God only,
Those who grieve,
Those who are humble,
Those who want to obey God more than eating and drinking,
Those who are merciful,
Those who have pure hearts,
Those who make peace, and
Those who are treated badly for doing what is right.”
Jesus also taught the people how to treat one another.
“Be kind to those who treat you badly,” Jesus said. “God will bless you for it. And when people mistreat you because you follow me, be happy because you will get your reward in heaven. I want you to love everyone, including your enemies. Pray for anyone who mistreats you.”
Then, Jesus taught the people how they should pray to God, too.
“Talk to God,” Jesus said. “When you pray, worship him with praise, repent of your sins, and humbly ask for what you need according to his will. And do not worry. God takes care of all the birds in the sky! Of course, he will take care of you, too.”
Jesus taught that it was important to hear his teachings and to obey what he said.
“People who hear and obey what I teach are wise,” Jesus explained. “These people are like those who build their house on solid rock. They will be secure and safe, even during hard times. But those who do not are like those who build their house on sand. When rain and wind come, their house will come crashing down.”