A Study in the Beatitudes

Matthew 5:1-3 Amplified Bible

“When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and when He was seated, His disciples came to Him. Then He began to teach them, saying, “Blessed [spiritually prosperous, happy, to be admired] are the poor in spirit [those devoid of spiritual arrogance, those who regard themselves as insignificant], for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever].”

            For the next few days I will be taking a look at the portion of Jesus Sermon on the Mount referred to as The Beatitudes. I’ve used the Amplified version of the Bible for clarity as to the meaning of each verse. 

It should be noted that the Beatitudes can be understood in several different ways:

1 – As a code of ethics for both the disciples and a standard of conduct for all believers.

2 – As a contrast between eternal Kingdom values and temporary worldly values.

3 – As a contrast between the superficial faith of the Pharisees and the pure faith demanded by Christ.

4 – As an illustration of how the Old Testament expectations will be fulfilled in Christ’s kingdom.

            Look carefully at the word explanations. A person that is ‘Blessed’ is not someone who has vast sums of money or material possessions. It is the person who is spiritually wealthy. Those are the ones who are content or happy with their life. Though it isn’t perfect, God is perfect and as we serve him faithfully we will lack none of life’s essentials. 

            Those who are ‘poor in spirit’ are those who are humble rather than haughty. Their first thought is regarding others and not themselves or their own need. God will take care of us. That frees us up to take care of the needs of others.

            The tag line in the Amplified version for the phrase “kingdom of heaven” expresses the eternal nature of God’s kingdom. His kingdom shall never end _{(Luke 1:32-33)}. If we live a life that is in humble obedience to God and his statutes we will be rewarded with eternal life in his presence. Tomorrow we’ll take a look at the next verse regarding those who mourn. Until next time, walk with the one true King and be a blessing!

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.