Early in Jesus’ Galilean ministry, he went up on a mountain where he taught His disciples. The first section of the discourse, which covers chapters 5 through 7 of Matthew, is referred to as the Beatitudes.
The word “beatitude” is defined as “supreme blessedness.” It is an appropriate description of the blessings that Jesus pronounced upon the righteous in these first 11 verses of Matthew 5. I appreciate the words of McGarvey about these righteous characteristics listed in the text:
“We are not to understand that a man who possesses any one of the enumerated traits of character, and is void of the others, will enjoy the corresponding blessing … the seven specifications are to be found in a single person—thus making up the perfect character who shall receive in their fullness all of the specified blessings.”
“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (3). This has reference to those who understand their dependence upon the Lord. It may be that they are physically poor, as the rich often struggle with the conceit of self-sufficiency. When one is aware that he is ultimately and solely dependent upon God, this awareness brings to him the blessing of God’s kingdom. He submits to God’s rule and receives the benefits of that citizenship, inclusive of an eternal abode in God’s presence.
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (4). Please understand the context of such mourning. Peter had much to say on the matter, “But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled” (1 Peter 3:14). “For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil” (1 Peter 3:17). “If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you” (1 Peter 4:14). Those who mourn because of their treatment at the hands of the ungodly will receive comfort from God.
Any reference to mourning that has the context of sin on the part of the Christian must refer to the godly sorrow that leads to repentance (cf. 2 Corinthians 7:10). Such comfort can only come after repentance has preceded it. Such comfort comes in the recognition of ultimate deliverance for the godly.
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (5). Meekness indicates restraint and self-control. A meek person is kind, slow to anger, and exhibits great strength of character when provoked. Jesus did not intend that such meek individuals would inherit the physical earth (which will be destroyed at judgment, cf. 2 Peter 3:10). Instead, the idea continues from the first two beatitudes. It is a spiritual blessing. A reception of “new heavens and a new earth” in eternity (cf. 2 Peter 3:13).
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled” (6). Sensual appetites bring little if any lasting satiation. Those who “set their mind on earthly things” (Philippians 3:19), ultimately remain unsatisfied. However, those who have an appetite for righteousness are different. They want to know what is right, and they want to do it! “Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart!” (Psalms 119:2). They will be satisfied (filled). This can indicate not only the ultimate reward of such hunger, but also the lasting satisfaction that comes from keeping the commandments of God. Such pleasure does not fade, it satisfies!
“Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy” (7). When we seek to help those who are afflicted or in need, such expressions are seen by the Almighty. Remember, God will not express His mercy and forgiveness upon those who refuse it to others (cf. James 2:13, Luke 6:37). As God’s children, we must express the same kind of love that God Himself has shown to us in sending us mercy through the sacrifice of His Son. Our imitation of Him is here accompanied by the promise of reward.
“Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God” (8). Our purity must not be ceremonial, as was the Pharisee’s. Instead, it must be sincere and deep. If it is, then it is true purity. Those who are truly righteous are promised a presence before God in eternity. We rejoice that in that day, as “we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2).
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God” (9). Those who make peace are those who exercise the wisdom that comes from above (James 3:17-18). They imbibe the spirit of God, who sent His Son to bring “on earth peace, goodwill toward man” (Luke 2:14). Understand that they will be recognized appropriately as God’s children. God accepts them because of their righteousness.
Finally, “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs in the kingdom of heaven” (10). The blessing is a repeat of verse 3. They will be accepted as citizens, and will ultimately receive the reward of heaven. This is an important promise to the many who suffer for their faith. The people of God in the first century, and every century since, have suffered for their faith. Paul wrote, “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable” (1 Corinthians 15:19). So, we are thankful that our eternal hope is secured if we remain faithful even “unto death” (Revelation 2:10).
Don’t forget, to be blessed in this way requires that we have all of these attributes listed in our text!
