Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount
5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them.
The Beatitudes
He said:
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Salt and Light
13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
The Beatitudes: "To What Life Is Your God Calling You To?"
Do you ever feel there is a disconnect between what people say and how they act? What about yourself, do you, like Paul, say, “I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.” (Romans 7:19)?
As we wrap up the beatitude series, “To what life is your god calling you?” we will briefly examine a bizarre exchange between Jesus and the ensuing crowd in John 6. Although not part of the beatitudes, this discourse provides a framework for understanding and living what Jesus is calling us to. We will then open the discussion to your questions, both in person and online; submit your questions ahead of time, or be ready to ask during the service! It’s going to be a great time of worship together through song, prayer, God’s word, and testimony in baptism. I’m looking forward to it!