Matthew 5-7 records Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount.” The teaching in these chapters reflects concepts right at the core of Jesus’ preaching of the kingdom of heaven. Those who live under the reign of King Jesus should reflect these truths.
The first section of this sermon describes those who are really blessed. The world would look at those Jesus called blessed and view them as poor and weak.
- Jesus says that the ones who are blessed are those who view themselves as spiritually impoverished, with nothing to bring to the table. They’re the ones who are citizens of the kingdom.
- They are heartbroken over their sin. They will receive comfort (see II Cor. 7:10).
- They humbly put themselves under the will of God. They will inherit the earth (see Ps. 37:11; Js. 1:21). Meekness is not weakness. It is putting yourself under God’s control.
- They long to be right with God. They’ll be satisfied (see Mt. 6:33).
- They show mercy. They’ll receive it too (see Mt. 6:14).
- They are the same through and through, inside and out. They will see God.
- They make peace. They’ll be called sons of God (because they’re like their Father).
- They are persecuted for their commitment to right. They are kingdom citizens.
These people will find themselves on the margins of society. They’ll be mocked, persecuted, and lied about. But, they are blessed because they have the hope of heaven. They actually find themselves in a long line of God’s people who have suffered for the cause of right, the prophets.
Lessons to Learn:
Greatness in the kingdom of God is not like greatness in the world. The rich, the powerful, the proud, and the cruel may “win” from an earthly perspective. But, if that’s their victory, their reward is cheap and will not last. But, kingdom citizens have real treasure. They look like losers earth-side. But, great is their reward in heaven. They may suffer shame now, but they will receive true honors.
Greatness in the kingdom requires humility. Kingdom citizens want to be shaped by the Lord’s will and not their own. Their mourning, meekness, and hungering and thirsting all demonstrate a humility that recognizes God’s way is best. Their mercy and peacemaking indicates that they can humbly yield for the good of others.
We’re thankful to share these considerations of God’s word. It’s best if you have a Bible close to evaluate what we say. We want to go “back to the Bible” for all we teach.
Reach out with your questions, comments, or requests for personal Bible study at backtothebiblepodcast.com or at info@backtothebiblepodcast
