Tag: Matthew 5

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Men of Direct Speech

In today’s broadcast from our ongoing Sermon on the Mount series, Pastor Ben Winslett explores Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5:33–37, where Christ addresses the misuse of oaths and the importance of honest, straightforward speech. While some might dismiss this as irrelevant in our modern world, Pastor Winslett shows just how deeply applicable Jesus’ words are—especially in an age of mass communication, social media platforms, and public opinion on demand.

Drawing from Old Testament laws in Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, and examining traditional Jewish interpretations, this message highlights how Jesus calls us beyond legalistic technicalities to a life of integrity—where a simple “yes” or “no” should suffice. We also consider how our speech can be used manipulatively or deceitfully, and how Scripture exhorts us to “study to be quiet,” to avoid gossip, flattery, and passive aggression.

Join us as we’re reminded that godly communication isn’t flamboyant or manipulative—but plain, dependable, and truthful. May God grant us the grace to speak with clarity, humility, and honesty!

Radio broadcast for June 15, 2025. Continue reading “Men of Direct Speech”

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A Deeper Understanding of the 7th Commandment

In this weekend’s edition of Words of Grace, Pastor Ben Winslett continues our study through the Sermon on the Mount with a message titled “A Deeper Understanding of the 7th Commandment.” While many view the commandment against adultery in strictly physical terms, Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5 reveals a far more convicting and heart-searching standard — one that exposes each of us as guilty and in need of grace.

In a culture confused about sexual ethics, this message boldly addresses what the Bible defines as sexual immorality, clearing away both modern confusion and pharisaical misapplications. From lustful thoughts to marital unfaithfulness, from the misuse of church discipline to the hope of redemption, Pastor Winslett offers biblical clarity, practical truth, and a strong reminder: our only hope of righteousness is through Jesus Christ.

Join us for this timely and sobering message from Words of Grace. Continue reading “A Deeper Understanding of the 7th Commandment”

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A Deeper Understanding of the 6th Commandment

In today’s broadcast of Words of Grace, Pastor Ben Winslett continues our study through the Sermon on the Mount by examining Christ’s words concerning the commandment, “Thou shalt not kill.” While many in Jesus’ day limited this command to literal murder, Jesus revealed its deeper meaning—warning against unrighteous anger, insults, and heart-level contempt.

We consider how Scripture distinguishes between justified killing in cases of justice or war and the sin of murder. But most importantly, we reflect on Christ’s call to examine our hearts. Anger without cause, calling someone “Raca,” or condemning a person as worthless or lost—all reveal a deeper guilt that the Law always intended to expose.

This message also emphasizes the urgency of reconciliation. Jesus teaches that making peace with our brother is more important than offering a gift at the altar. Join us as we unpack the holiness of God’s Law and our need for Christ’s righteousness, both imputed and worked in us through grace.

Radio broadcast for June 1, 2025. Continue reading “A Deeper Understanding of the 6th Commandment”

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A Deeper Understanding of God’s Law

In this week’s episode of Words of Grace, Pastor Ben Winslett brings a powerful message from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, focusing on Matthew 5:21–48. Many people misread this passage as Jesus opposing the Law of Moses, but as you’ll hear today, Christ wasn’t criticizing the law—He was explaining it more deeply. This message unpacks the spirit behind the commandments: issues of the heart like anger, lust, vengeance, and hypocrisy. You’ll see how these teachings expose both God’s holiness and our need for grace. Thankfully, Christ not only taught the law—He fulfilled it in full, then bore its penalty for His people.

This message is part of our ongoing series through the Sermon on the Mount. Be encouraged today by the truth that while God’s standard is perfection, Jesus Christ has fulfilled it on behalf of His people.

Radio broadcast for May 25, 2025. Continue reading “A Deeper Understanding of God’s Law”

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Those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness

In this episode of Words of Grace, Ben Winslett explores Matthew 5:6, in which Jesus said “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” This longing for righteousness is a sign of spiritual life, showing that a person has been born again. Just as physical hunger indicates life, spiritual hunger reveals the presence of the new nature given by God. And, this craving is ONLY satisfied through the gospel, prayer, and worship.

Radio broadcast for February 23, 2025. Continue reading “Those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness”

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The Poor In Spirit

The Sermon on the Mount, Part 1: The Poor in Spirit
In this episode of Words of Grace, Pastor Benjamin Winslett begins a new series on the Sermon on the Mount, considering Jesus’ powerful message from Matthew 5–7. This first lesson focuses on the phrase, “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

What does it mean to be “poor in spirit”? It’s not necessarily about financial status but recognizing our deep need for God. Pastor Winslett explains how true spiritual poverty is marked by humility, a broken heart over sin, and full dependence on Christ for salvation. This isn’t a condition to fear—it’s a blessing! Jesus promises that those who know their need for Him find joy, peace, and a place in His kingdom.

Tune in to discover the richness of this truth and how it applies to your life today.

Radio broadcast for February 2, 2025. Continue reading “The Poor In Spirit”

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Salt and Light

In today’s episode of Words of Grace, Pastor Benjamin Winslett reflects on another change in government leaders and uses it as a backdrop to discuss Jesus’ powerful teachings in Matthew 5:13-16. Believers are called to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Pastor Winslett explains how Christians bring value, preserve goodness, and shine truth in a dark world. How does that apply specifically to our responsibility towards elected leaders? We are to pray for them!

Radio broadcast for January 26, 2025. Continue reading “Salt and Light”

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The Christian Response to Persecution

In The Christian Response to Persecution, Ben Winslett explores how believers are called to handle adversity for their faith. Reflecting on John 15, Ben discusses the world’s rejection of Christ and, therefore, of those who follow Him. He shares Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 5 about rejoicing in persecution, then outlines four essential principles for handling trials: forgiving others, seeking justice in appropriate ways, responding with boldness, and ultimately striving to glorify God in every circumstance. Tune in to this episode of Words of Grace for encouragement and guidance on standing firm in faith amid adversity!

Radio program for November 10, 2024. Continue reading “The Christian Response to Persecution”