The Beatitudes (Matt 5:1-12, Luke 6:20-23)

Today’s lesson is the beginning of our studies concerning the Sermon on the Mount.  The Sermon of the Mount is contained in Matthew chapters 5, 6, and 7 and portions of it are also recorded in Luke 6:20-49.  This sermon was delivered following the choosing of the twelve apostles and the Bible does not really tell us on which mountain it was delivered.  It is believed to be representative of the material Jesus taught often in many sermons He delivered as He traveled from place to place.

Read Matthew 4:23-5:12. The Apostles introduction into ministry began by being exposed to a flood of human suffering as crowds came to Jesus to be healed.  Large crowds were following Him to hear His teaching and to be healed.  We are told in Matt 5:1 that, when he saw the crowds, He went up onto the side of the mountain, sat down, and began to teach them. 

Jesus’ teaching on the mountainside that day began with what is commonly referred to as the Beatitudes. The Beatitudes are eight blessings which outline the virtues of a faithful life.  They are in contrast with conventional ideas of success by promising divine comfort and heavenly rewards.

1. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (vs 3).  The poor in spirit are those who have recognized their own spiritual poverty and must practice a total dependence upon God.  These folks are blessed as they can draw upon the full resources of the Kingdom of God to guide their lives.
2. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted (vs 4).  God’s people mourn the things that God mourns…sin, oppression, persecution, evil.  The folks who mourn are blessed as they receive God’s comfort and as they comfort others.
3. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth (vs 5).  The meek exercise quiet strength and gentle self-control.  They do not assert themselves over others for personal self-interest.  They are blessed as the gentle will inherit the earth and its blessings (Psalm 37:11).
4. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled (vs 6).  People who hunger and thirst are in danger of dying if they are not filled.  Those who are in search of righteousness are blessed by being filled with God’s justice and goodness (Psalm 22:26).
5.  Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy (vs 7).  Those who demonstrate God’s mercy will receive God’s mercy.
6. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God (vs 8).  Those who have a pure heart, who have set their hearts on God, shall see God (Psalm 24:3-4). 
7. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God (vs 9).  Peace is more than the absence of strife… it is something which permeates all of our relationships with our family, neighbors, God, and others.  Showing God’s love and maintaining peaceful relationships with others is a way of building our relationship with our loving God (Heb 12:14).
8. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (vs 10).  Many people are mistreated or hounded for their beliefs or practices when they do or don’t do agree with the popular trend.  Sometimes, standing for Christ can be hard.  These folks are blessed and they can draw upon the full resources of the Kingdom of God to guide their lives (1 Pet 3:14-18, 4:13-19).

Verses 11-12 go on to expand on the 8^th beatitude.  Jesus tells folks that persecution is a given.  If you are following His ways, persecution will come (Acts 5:41, 7:52).  The prophets were persecuted before, as well.  Persecution is a blessing because you will receive a reward in Heaven for it.  How should we react when we are persecuted?

These beatitudes address some of the qualities of kingdom citizens.  A spirit-filled life in Christ produces these qualities and causes us to be blessed.  How closely do you exhibit these qualities?  Can others see Jesus in you? 

Record Isaiah 61:1 in your journal.

Responding to God:  Worship God as totally sovereign in your life, recognizing your spiritual limitations and total dependence on Him.  Vow to choose gentleness and patience in your interactions with others. Commit to addressing social issues, discrimination, or unfair treatment whenever you encounter it.  Let go of grudges and practice forgiveness, even when it isn’t deserved. Seek reconciliation instead of letting divisions grow. Show patience with others. Practice honest and ethical behavior, even if no one is watching. Evaluate your motives and be careful of those things which you allow into your mind and heart. Allow Him to guide your thoughts and your actions.