The Beatitudes begin what is probably the most well-known sermon Jesus ever delivered, the famous “Sermon on the Mount”. The Beatitudes can be found in Matthew 5:1-12 (ESV). A few observations always jump out at me whenever I read this passage. The Beatitudes’ short statements superbly summarize the essence of the Sermon on the Mount.

First and foremost, the Beatitudes’ demonstration of the the way to heavenly blessedness is in complete contrast to the temporal path followed by the unsaved in pursuit of happiness. The worldly idea is that happiness is found in fame and fortune, both of which lead to excessive amounts of self-admiration, leisure and pleasure. The actual truth is entirely opposite. The Beatitudes give Jesus’ description of the character of pure faith. For example, “poor in spirit”, the opposite of self-sufficiency, speaks of the deep humility of knowing one’s utter spiritual bankruptcy apart from God. It describes those who are acutely aware of their own hopelessness apart from God’s life-giving grace.

Also, the emphasis Jesus put in these short statements demonstrates the importance of the virtues that should characterize those who are ready for the Kingdom of God to arrive and assures us of God’s promises while we wait. (Don’t misunderstand; I’m not saying perfection is required, only that these virtues should dominate our thoughts and actions.) And speaking of actions, James 2:26 states, “For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.” (ESV) Martin Luther writes: “O it is a living, busy active mighty thing this faith. It is impossible for it not to be doing good things incessantly. It does not ask whether good works are to be done, but before the question is asked, it has already done this, and is constantly doing them.” So we see that saving faith demonstrates itself to others by moving us to obey the Lord, making it evident that we are friends in a right relationship with God.

Jesus’ ‘Sermon on the Mount’ is so rich in both theology and practical application. It is too easy for us to miss its abundant treasures as we read them over and over throughout the years. It is my goal to slow down as I read Scripture in order to be edified by God’s rich teachings. Let me close with what Paul wrote in his second letter to Timothy, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)

~ Shalom! Shalom! ☧

* Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.