Matthew 5:3–12
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Jesus' Teachings
The Beatitudes
The Beatitudes: nine kingdom qualities Jesus calls blessed — long before the world ever would
Introduction
The Beatitudes open the Sermon on the Mount not with commands but with blessing — nine short declarations that name a kind of person the world rarely applauds, and call them blessed anyway. Read together, they aren't nine separate virtues to master. They're one kingdom character, described from every angle.
Scripture
Matthew 5:7–9
Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
Matthew 5:11–12
Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you... Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven.
Translation note: Scripture quotations are from the King James Version (KJV). The King James Version is in the public domain.
Key insights
- Nine declarations, one kingdom character
- The condition is where the blessing is found
- These blessings are tied to Jesus, not virtue in general
- Salt loses its usefulness by dilution, not destruction
Related resources
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