The fifth chapter of Matthew begins what is known as the Sermon on the Mount. The three chapters that comprise this segment of Jesus’ teaching is perhaps some of the best known portions of the New Testament. And it begins with the Beatitudes.
The Sermon on the Mount is called this because this is where Jesus delivered these teachings, on a mountain plateau near Capernaum. Luke includes some similar segments of Jesus’ teaching, but he tells us that Jesus delivered that message form a plain. So it is very likely that Jesus gave these lessons on more than one occasion, to different listeners.
The nature of these teachings is very simple. They are profound statements, but very easy to hear and digest. That is why they are so memorable.
Matthew 5 begins by telling us that Jesus went up onto a mountain. And while it is clear that it was near the small community of Capernaum, we don’t know exactly what mountain it was. Apparently Matthew assumes his readers would know. Tradition states that it was a double peaked mountain with a level area near the top known as the Horns of Hattin. Wherever it was, it was convenient to Jesus and the crowds following him, so he used it.
The first thing Matthew gives is is a series of “Blessed are the…” statements. These are called the Beatitudes, quick and simple statements that convey a major truth. Jesus gives nine of them. The first seven relate to character, the last two deal with persecution. The reason for this is simple: those who display such character will suffer opposition from the enemy.
And while they are simple statements, they are both paradoxical and true. They may not make sense form a worldly perspective, but from God’s point of view, they make perfect sense.
Blessed are the poor in spirit: This refers to those who recognize their inability to achieve spiritual growth on their own, and realize that only through God’s help can they be saved. We have a spiritual bankruptcy, so to speak, and need his help in order to inherit the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn: Those who mourn do so because of their sin, and because of the sin of those around them. They will be comforted when they understand that God desires to rescue them from that sin. Godly sorrow is a genuine sorrow because of sin that leads to a God-pleasing life. 2 Corinthians 7:10 says, For the sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a repentance without regret, leading to salvation, but the sorrow of the world produces death.
Blessed are the gentle: This has been translated as “meek,” meaning those who are gentle and humble in heart. This is not weakness, but a blending of poise and strength which only comes from God. Such people will inherit the earth so that they may enjoy it more fully while in it. But one day, they will also inherit something greater.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness: If you earnestly desire righteousness, you shall obtain it. God is anxious to be found by all those who seek him.
Blessed are the merciful: Mercy is an interesting characteristic of the spiritual life. Most often, it is found in reference to the forgiveness of our sins. What this statement is saying is that those who are forgiving receive — and understand — forgiveness. Jesus will state this again in Matthew 6:14-15.
Blessed are the pure in heart: Without holiness no one can see God (Hebrews 12:14). The pure in heart are those who strive to leave behind their sinful desires. Sin clouds our vision so that we cannot see God clearly. But when we seek to be pure of heart, we can see him more better, and one day, we will see him face to face (1 Corinthians 13:12).
Blessed are the peacemakers: Jesus is not just saying that we should be peaceful people, but that we should earnestly seek to make peace, to resolve strife. Why? Because Jesus is our example in this (Ephesians 2:14-22).
Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness: When we lead actively righteous lives, that will be offensive to those who don’t. This is because our example serves to spark their conscience, whether they want to admit it or not. When we live according to the principles of Jesus, the world will respond with persecution and hatred. But we can take heart, because we have a reward that will last for eternity.
Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you: This seems to be a repeat of the previous statement, and it does reinforce what Jesus said there. But Jesus adds to it and reminds us that such persecutions come because we are living for him. When Scripture repeats itself, it is usually something we need to pay close attention to, and this is a perfect example of this principle. Twice, Jesus says that we will be persecuted because we follow him. It will be difficult, but the rewards are worth it.
It seems as if each of these statements in Matthew 5 builds upon the previous ones. While they probably aren’t meant to be a progression of the spiritual life, there does appear to be a reason that Jesus listed them in this particular order. So if you aren’t sure where to start when it comes to spiritual growth, begin with the first one. And then watch as your growth follows through this list.
You might be surprised at what God will accomplish in you, and through you.
Question: Which of these nine statements resonate with you the most? What are you doing to grow in that area? You can leave a comment by clicking here.