THE BEATITUDES 1
TEXT: MATTHEW 5:1-5
INTRODUCTION
The beatitude is part of the teachings of Jesus Christ popularly known as the Sermon on the mount which is contained in the gospel of Matthew 5-7. Jesus Christ saw in the multitude the opportunity to teach about godly character, principles and the blessings in godliness. Today, we are looking into the first three beatitudes:
1) Blessed are the poor in spirit: Matthew 5:1-3, Luke 6:20
It is really thoughtful for Jesus Christ to use the word "poor" in the spirit, was he encouraging emptiness and lack spiritually? No. He meant the humble in spirit, those who come or stand before God in humility without any iota of pride. James 4:6, Prov 29:23. The word there for such is "Blessed". We are encouraged to drop ego, and whatever that promotes pride in us whenever and wherever. God does not despise a broken spirit and contrite heart - Psalm 57:15. No proud man will be in heaven. Heaven is meant for the humble in spirit- Matt 5:3, neither is it for those with humble looks but proud in the spirit.
2) Blessed are they that mourn : Matt 5:1-4, Luke 6:21
The blessing for those that mourn is comfort. The Holy Spirit is the Comforter. They are mutually connected with the Spirit of God for comfort- John 14:16, John 15:26, 2 Cor 1:4. The mourning here implies that entire feeling which the sense of our spiritual poverty produces. These are those who do not justify their weaknesses and sinful state rather they look unto Jesus Christ in brokenness as they mourn for their salvation and total transformation, trusting in the Holy Spirit- Isaiah 61:2-3, 2 Corinthians 1:7. When we lament over the state of our spirit, the Holy Spirit comes to empower us with the overcoming grace to live victorious Christian life. It is the heart of one who desires revival and spiritual awakening- Rev 21:4
3) Blessed are the meek : Matt 5:5
The meek are those that are lowly and gentle in mind before God and men. The riches and good of the earth belong to the meek. Psalm 37:11, Numbers 12:3. The meek man is a wise man - James 3:13. Meekness is one virtue that should be seen in every Christian. We should not be high-spirited or violent. Meekness models the humility of Christ- Philippians 2:6-8. It is the meek Christian that receives the word of God- James 1:21. It takes meekness to properly share the gospel of Jesus Christ for the salvation of mankind- 1 Peter 3:15.
Conclusion
In summary, the three beatitudes just discussed are centered on total humility. The humble Christian is a blessed Christian and he is qualified by grace for favour and eternal rewards.
