Playlist: Blessed Are (sermon series)
Richard T. Ritenbaugh
The Poor in Spirit
The Attitude of Spiritual DeficiencyNothing that we could ever do could impress God, except for our contrition, acknowledgment of our infirmity, and remorse for our sins which displease God.
Those Who Mourn
A Contrite SpiritWorldly sorrow leads to death while godly sorrow leads to repentance and life. After godly repentance, sorrow is swallowed up in profound joy.
The Meek
Humble Compliance to GodMeekness is the opposite of weakness, exemplifying self-control under immense pressure, demonstrated by Jesus refusing to retaliate.
Those Who Hunger and Thirst
A Perpetual Spiritual AppetiteIn the Beatitude, hungering and thirsting for righteousness are present tense active participles signifying continuous longing for God's righteousness.
The Merciful
A Reflection of God's MercyThe harsh religion of the Pharisees was unfeeling, placing more attention on rituals and man-made laws, and had turned their super-righteousness into sin.
The Pure in Heart
Seeing GodIt is the core of our heart that must be cleansed before we can have a pure heart, enabling us to see God as He is.
The Peacemakers
An Identifier of God's ChildrenWhen people are not in a right relationship with God, peace is impossible. Sin (the breaking of the law or covenant) automatically breaks the peace.
Those Who Are Persecuted
Commiting Ourselves to a Faithful CreatorPersecution is already here, part and parcel in the lives of followers of Christ. If we are persecuted for following God's instructions, we will be blessed.
Blessed Are: Summary
Lessons Learned From the BeatitudesIn the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, Jesus exposes the depths of His own heart, while demonstrating the deficit of our own carnal hearts.