His Teachings In one of the best-known sermons in history, Jesus Christ told his followers: " No one can slave for two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stick to the one and despise the other. You cannot slave for God and for riches." (Matthew 6:27) Is Jesus' teaching about putting God first in our lives still practical today, when so many people believe that money solves problems? True, we need money to get by. (Ecclesiastes 7:12) Yet, if we let "Riches" be our master, "the love of money" will control us, dominating our whole life. (1Timothy 6:9, 10) Many who have fallen into this trap have ended up losing their family, their health and even their lives.

On the other hand, looking to God as our Master gives meaning to life. As the Creator, he is the Source of life, and thus, he alone is worthy of our worship. (Psalm 36:9; Revelation 4:11) Those who learn about his qualities and come to love him are moved to observe his commandments. (Ecclesiastes 12:13; 1John 5:3) By doing so, we benefit ourselves. - Isaiah 48:17.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus also taught his disciples how to show love for fellow humans. He said: "All things; therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise do to them." (Matthew 7:12) The word "men" that Jesus used here includes even one's enemies. In the same sermon, he said: "Continue to love your enemies and to pray for those persecuting you." (Matthew 5:43, 44) Would not such love solve many of the problems that we face today? Hindu leader Mohandas Gandhi thought so. He is quoted as saying: " When [we] shall get together on the teachings laid down by Christ in this Sermon on the Mount, we shall have solved the problems. . . of the whole world." Jesus' teachings about love, if applied can solve many of mankind's ills.

Next time: His Deeds