A. What is the one key idea of this chapter.
The key idea of chapter three is the Gospel of Matthew, and our call to be like Jesus. We learn about the background, writings, and who and when Matthew wrote for. We learn about the values of Jesus, and that they shaped who he was. Our values shape us, and we as Christians are called to share the values of Jesus. The Eight Beatitudes are model Christian values. Jesus calls us not only to follow, but to teach the values he taught.

B. Write about two major ideas you want to remember. Write a short paragraph on each clearly stating the idea and then telling why you want to remember it.
The biggest thing I want to remember about this chapter is the details about the Temptation Narrative. As a teenager in today’s society I struggle with temptations to do many things like drugs, alcohol, sex, and violence, along with many other immoral things. Knowing that Jesus went through temptations also, and had the power to resist, helps me remember that I have the power to fight temptation and sin. Jesus put his trust in God, and didn’t give in to Satan. Ideally, I wish I was able to always put my trust in God all the time, but I can’t; I’m human Jesus’ story is an inspiration to try harder and put my faith in God. Jesus was fully human and he did it; I am fully human and modeling Jesus’ faith is a goal to set.
Second, I would like to remember that the kingdom of God is here on earth in the presence of God, not something only after death. The text says that for followers of Jesus saying “yes” to the kingdom on earth needs to be top priority. I often think of the kingdom of God as a heavenly after life that I only need to strive for because it’s coming when I die. If everyone strived to bring God’s presence into the world and bring the kingdom here, the world would be a much better place. Maybe by trying to live the kingdom here I can brighten up someone’s day or make the world a better place. The kingdom can be here; it’s reality here and now.

C.
Christian Values

D. One question about the chapter.
I was very puzzled about the point of anti-Semitic remarks in Matthew’s Gospel being brought into question. It confuses me how denouncing the Pharisees and scribes is anti-Semitic, which I always envisioned as a true hatred towards the Jewish people. So, I guess my question is, why are Matthew’s remarks against these ancient Jewish political groups considered as an entirety anti-Semitic?

E. Pick one organization working for social justice today. Describe the organization and what it does. Make sure to provide a link to its web site. An organization that is definitely working for social justice today is Amnesty International(AI). It is a worldwide organization dedicated to campaigning for internationally recognized human rights. In this vision to promote human rights, AI focuses on ending grave abuses to physical and mental rights, freedom of conscience and expression, and freedom from discrimination. The organization is not part of a government, not does it support or oppose any type of government. It has over 2.2 million members worldwide, and is a democratic self-governing movement. AI’s only concern is primary human rights and gaining them for people worldwide. To learn more visit their website: Amnesty International Info