The Beatitudes are among the most quoted words of Jesus. This month, we’ll be starting a new series where we’ll look intently at some of the beautiful eight promises that Christ poured out on expectant, eager ears during His Sermon on the Mount.
What are Beatitudes?
By simple definition, a beatitude is a declaration of blessedness. (For word nerds like me, it comes from the Latin word, beatitudinem, which means “state of blessedness.”) Promises of blessings were given for those who had responded to the call of repentance (Matthew 4:17) and entered a relationship with the Savior.
In other words, those promises are for us!
Each beatitude shows a blessing deeper than mere earthly happiness. Instead they point to spiritual joy that can’t be taken or shaken, no matter what sorrows, griefs, or hardships occur.
Read what Spurgeon says about The Beatitudes:
See how Jesus begins his Sermon on the Mount, he begins with benedictions. He is a cloud that is full of rain, and that empties itself upon the earth. The moment you begin to know Christ, you begin to have blessings; and the more you know of him, the more blessed you will be. – Charles Spurgeon
Jesus often teaches deep, complex truths in easy to understand ways. The Beatitudes are no exception. Each beatitude lists a simple promise of blessing and the following result for those who have chosen to answer His call of invitation to enter into His Kingdom.
Yes, like Spurgeon said, the more we know of Him, the more blessed we will be!
But what does “Blessed” mean?
According to HELPS Word-Studies the word “blessed” used in the Beatitudes is the word “makários (from mak-, ‘become long, large’) – properly, when God extends His benefits (the advantages He confers); blessed.”
The word “blessed” implies that the receiver of the blessings is in an enviable position because of the grace and extended favor that God has shown toward them. We want blessings, or course!— not to be enviable to others, but to receive more of His goodness.
Oh, yes, we are blessed because of Him. And we are blessed because of the great love and grace He extends to us!
If you’re joining us for “Teach Us, Jesus”, our current memorization challenge (pssst, it’s not too late to join!!), you’ll know that we’ll soon be memorizing these beatitudes. We hope you’ll join us for that and also for this series as we sit with Jesus and study His teaching.
Do you love The Beatitudes? How have Jesus promises encouraged you?
Blessings, friends!
Ali
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