Matthew 5:1-12

July 24, 2010 in Matthew,Theology with 0 Comments

Matthew brings Jesus’ ministry alive by documenting some of His sermons and in Matthew 5:1-7:29, Jesus’ sermon on the mount is detailed for the reader. This sermon is one of the most famous in all of Scripture. The words of Jesus in this passage are an effort to define true righteousness as opposed to the external, works-based righteousness of the Pharisees (so-called religious leaders); in fact, Jesus says in Matthew 5:20, “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus taught His disciples that true righteousness begins in the heart and not with the external works of the flesh. Paul also wrote to the Romans, “But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness” (Romans 4:5); therefore, righteousness stems from God and then flows to the heart of man. Righteousness cannot be earned or manufactured through good works, as the religious leaders taught, but it is only through faith in God that true righteousness and lasting life change is discovered.

When Jesus saw the multitudes which had gathered to see Him (4:23-25), He went up onto a mountain and called His disciples to Him (5:1). He first teaches them (5:2) regarding the character of those who have true faith and righteousness. These characteristics are often referred to as the beatitudes (5:3-12), meaning that they are the attitudes of true faith. The world finds satisfaction in pleasure and material things, while those with true faith exhibit satisfaction through their character, which is produced by the Holy Spirit. Here is a brief description of each of the beatitudes:

Poor in Spirit (5:3) – a recognition of my utter need of God
Mourn (5:4) – a deep sorrow over my sin
Meek (5:5) – self-control even in difficult circumstances
Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness (5:6) – seeking the righteousness of God instead of attempting to earn it
Merciful (5:7) – not seeking revenge or having compassion on the undeserving
Pure in Heart (5:8) – an internal cleansing of the heart
Peacemakers (5:9) – striving for togetherness instead of strife
Persecuted for Righteousness’ Sake (5:10-12) – a willingness to suffer hardship for doing good

These attitudes can only be realized when a person has true faith and righteousness from God, apart from his own works.

Dear God, produce these attitudes in me so that I might reflect true faith and righteousness.

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