The Sermon on the Mount, as recorded at Matthew 5:3–7:27, is an outstanding example of Jesus’ generous use of word pictures. According to one count, this sermon contains over 50 figures of speech. To put that in perspective, keep in mind that this sermon can be read aloud in about 20 minutes. At that rate, a figure of speech is uttered, on average, nearly every 20 seconds!

For example, when urging his disciples not to be anxious over daily needs, he pointed to “the birds of heaven” and “the lilies of the field.” The birds do not sow and reap, nor do the lilies spin and weave. Still, God cares for them. The point is easy to see​—namely, that if God takes care of birds and flowers, surely he will look after humans who “keep . . . seeking first the Kingdom.”​—Matthew 6:26, 28-33.