Now when Jesus heard that John had been imprisoned, he went into Galilee.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to them.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’

As you go, preach this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven is near!’

But I tell you, it will be more bearable for the region of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you!”

I tell you that something greater than the temple is here.

Although Herod wanted to kill John, he feared the crowd because they accepted John as a prophet.

So they began to discuss this among themselves, saying, “It is because we brought no bread.”

Then he instructed his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.

Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them about John the Baptist.

Now when the Pharisees heard that he had silenced the Sadducees, they assembled together.

Nor are you to be called ‘teacher,’ for you have one teacher, the Christ.

By saying this you testify against yourselves that you are descendants of those who murdered the prophets.

“Therefore stay alert, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.

I tell you the truth, the master will put him in charge of all his possessions.