In Jesus’ first sermon recorded in Mathew he talks about core values. He lists ten core values that he wanted all of his followers to embrace. As I read through Mathew chapter 6 and 7 these values jumped out at me. Read it for yourself sometime. Here is Jesus’ top ten values:
- Do the right things for the right reasons (6:1-8 & 16-18)
- Pray for God’s will, not your own (6:9-13)
- Relationships are vital, they will make you or break you – Keep short accounts (6:14,15)
- Prioritize eternal things, not temporal things (6:19-24)
- Don’t sweat the small stuff (6:25-31, 34)
- God’s kingdom is the most important thing in life; seek it first (6:32, 33)
- Judge yourself before you judge others (7:1-6)
- If you need something ask; if you have something, give it. (7:7-12)
- Stay true to your convictions; Stay on the narrow path of following Christ. (7:13-20)
- Obedience to God is the only solid foundation in life. Listen to and do what He says (7:21-27)
Jesus also summarized the Bible by saying “Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” Matthew 7:12