The Beatitudes.

THE BEATITUDES.

Matthew 5:1-12.

MATTHEW 5:3. “Poor in spirit.” Humble. Recognise their lostness without Christ. Not too proud to receive Jesus as Saviour.

“Theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

MATTHEW 5:4. “They that mourn.” Mourn over their sin, admit it. ‘Against thee, thee only have I sinned’ (Psalm 51:4). ‘A broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt no despise’ (Psalm 51:17).

“They shall be comforted.”

MATTHEW 5:5. “The meek.” A patient and contented spirit. Like Jesus, ‘gentle and lowly in heart’ (Matthew 11:29). Not brash, not arrogant. Considerate of others.

“They shall inherit the earth.”

MATTHEW 5:6. “They which do hunger and thirst after righteousness.” They ‘seek first’ God’s kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33). They do not seek to establish their own righteousness, but submit to God’s righteousness. The righteousness which is by faith in Jesus Christ our Lord.

“They shall be filled.”

MATTHEW 5:7. “The merciful.” They have mercy because they have received mercy. They forgive because they have been forgiven. Yet in this frail flesh we continue to need mercy, and forgiveness so the blessing is:

“They shall obtain mercy.”

MATTHEW 5:8. “The pure in heart.” Not outward show, but inward holiness ‘without which no man shall see the Lord’ (Hebrews 12:14b).

“They shall see God.”

MATTHEW 5:9. “The peacemakers.” ‘Follow peace with all men,’ (Hebrews 12:14a). Jesus ‘made peace through the blood of the cross’ (Colossians 2:20). ‘And came and preached peace to them which were afar off, and to them which were nigh’ (Ephesians 2:17).

“They shall be called the children of God.”

MATTHEW 5:10-12. “They which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake.”

“Theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”