The more time I spent studying the Sermon on the Mount, the more I came to see not only that it is Jesus’ summary sermon, but it ties all of His teachings together.  That is huge! 

I must admit that I had already been specializing in Jesus’ teachings for eighteen years before I delved into that sumptuous sermon. It had formerly seemed too intimidating. But when Dallas Willard’s book, The Divine Conspiracy, was released, reading it made me unable to stop studying that sermon. I got out my Greek translation, and it took six years to find the sermon’s outline, Jesus’ six basic teachings which are featured there, and to line up all of Jesus’ teachings with parallel verses in The Sermon on the Mount. Everything else Jesus taught in Matthew, Mark, and Luke, expands or clarifies that sermon’s lessons.

All of Jesus’ teachings are sculpted to help His followers, especially when they are in times of struggle. That is the sermon’s conclusion. It took so many years for me to put that transforming sermon together with all of his other teachings, and to reach that conclusion. As is the case for all who approach scripture, you will not know ahead of time what you are even looking for! Even so, when you find the jewels which pour out of His teachings, you will immediately know that they are His personal gifts to you. That is what I hope you will find in this book – Jesus speaking to you, clear and simple.

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

“Over 30 years of pondering and practicing The Sermon on the Mount in the presence of real life and suffering, have been distilled into Jesus, Clear and Simple. Maturing, healing, and transforming into the character of Christ has its spectacular moments, but few people realize more clearly than Dr. Friesen that the depth of transformation we all desire emerges from struggle. A community of joy, prayer, and Bible study develops as were realize the Kingdom of God is not somewhere in the future, but here now. Gather a group together and use the study guide in this book to have a new look at your life.”

            Dr. E. James Wilder, author and speaker

“Rarely have I read a book that has simultaneously awakened my spirit and challenged my mind in such a synergistic, powerful way as Jesus, Clear and Simple. Dr. Friesen is a brilliant theologian, scholar, and clinician who comes alongside the reader as a newfound friend, illuminating the teachings of Jesus in practical terms, such that all can reach the hem of Jesus’ garment”

            Dr. Michelle Watson, counselor, author.

“Rarely is the life-transforming power of the clear and simple teaching of Jesus in the Gospels actually made clear and simple in a way that truly transforms lives as Jesus intended. Skillfully designed by a biblical theologian and professional counselor for use by small groups, it is equally effective for anyone who is a faith-walking partner of someone who needs authentic light and realistic hope in the darkness of deep struggles. This book works!”

            Dr. Richard Kriegbaum, president, Fresno Pacific University, author

“Are you struggling? Do you want the life you have always longed for? Then live a life that’s all about Jesus. It’s not about what you want Him to do for you, or even what you think you should do for Him. It’s about the simplicity of knowing Him and being known by Him, heart to heart—nestled In His embrace like the serene calm in the eye of the storm. That’s what I want most out of life. And that’s what I love about this book, clear and simple.”

            Mark Sanford, spiritual director, Elijah House