The Bible gives a detailed account of Jesus’ life, allowing us to learn from the words he spoke while here on earth. His teachings are not just for Christians, as many Jesus Christ quotes and Bible quotes are well known by people of all religions.
Most of the Biblical quotes of Jesus in history can be found in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John where Jesus is either conveying his wisdom through stories or responding to a question. The Sermon on the Mount (chapters 5 through 7 of the gospel of Matthew) is one of the richest sources of Christ quotes and lessons as well as one of the most widely quoted.
The words of Jesus in this sermon, however, have been subject to debate for many years. The heart of the controversy is whether the teachings should be applied literally or conceptually. For example, in Matthew 5:29, Jesus apparently preaches that looking at a woman with lust in your heart is the same as committing adultery, and that you should gouge out your right eye to prevent temptation. This is obvious hyperbole as is the case throughout the Bible.
Not all of his teachings are so controversial, however, and many Christ quotes have found their way into modern life. Some of his most popular quotes include:
All things therefore whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, even so do ye also unto them: for this is the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12
Although many religions and other historical sources claim it as their own, this quote from Jesus is the basis for the what is now known as the Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Similar quotes can be found in Leviticus 19:18 and Leviticus 19:34.
You have heard that it was said, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth”. But I say to you, do not resist an evildoer. If anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. Matthew 5:38
This quote is at the heart of the controversial debate about capital punishment. Jesus goes beyond the “tit for tat” argument and says that we should forgive those who perform evil acts in an attempt to overcome evil with good. Jesus intended that we should be merciful instead of vengeful, and ensure that any punishment should be fitting for the crime.
Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. Matthew 22:35
The concept of “loving thy neighbor” is expressed in eight different places in the Bible, and is called the second great Commandment. The idea is to let go of selfishness and instead lead a life of love and service towards others.
Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Matthew 4:17
Spoken at the beginning of his ministry, this is Jesus’ “coming out,” so to speak. With this statement, he introduced to the people who he was and what his life would be about: teaching others to live a life of God.
Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak. Matthew 26:41
Out of all of the Jesus Christ quotes, this one hits close to home for many. It reminds us that no matter how strong our faith is, temptation is always around us and we must always fight it.`