The Beatitudes
The Bible is such a deep book that if we gloss over any of it we miss out. The Beatitudes are some of the most ignored words of all that Jesus spoke. And yet, they are some of the most important. See how they are a connected progression for spiritual development in this series.
The Beatitudes – 7 – Peacemakers
We read in Isaiah 9:7 that at Christ's return, "Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end." Taking that down to practical reality, it also figures that God places a high value on our ability to be peacemakers. In the Beatitudes Jesus tells us, "Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God." His statement begs two questions: How do we become peacemakers, and how do we become children of God?
Beatitudes – 6 – Pure in Heart
In the 6th Beatitude Jesus tells us we need to be pure in heart. What is that exactly? Some think of it as being good. But there’s more to it than that. It’s been said there are only two ways of life – God’s way and our way. In James 4:8 we are told, “Purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
The Beatitudes – 5 – Mercy
The previous Beatitude tells us that we must hunger and thirst for righteousness. People who have that hunger realize they are not yet righteous. They are aware of their own failings. They don't see a division between themselves and the unrighteous; they don't think better of themselves; they realize they are in need of mercy; and they consequently tend to treat others in a softer, more merciful way.
The Beatitudes – 4 – Hungering for Righteousness
Most Christians know that Jesus, in the Beatitudes. tells us that if we want to be successful with God the desire to do good, or be righteous, must triumph in the struggle between good and evil. Most Christians might not know, however, that the ability to hunger for righteousness comes from accomplishing the three preceding beatitudes.
The Beatitudes – 3 – Meekness
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD TRANSCRIPT The Beatitudes - 3 - Meekness The Bible says Moses was the meekest man on earth, yet he had a fiery temper. How does that work? Why is meekness so
The Beatitudes – 2 – Mourning
Mourning isn't fun, but it is important for Christians. But what does it mean to mourn in the context of the Beatitudes? How do we acquire this essential attitude?
The Beatitudes – 1 – Poverty of Spirit
Poverty of spirit is square one for Christians - the bedrock attitude. Do we have it? Do we value it? How can we become poor in spirit?
The Beatitudes – Introduction
The Bible is such a deep book that if we gloss over any of it we miss out. The Beatitudes are some of the most ignored words of all that Jesus spoke. And yet, they are some of the most important.