02 July 2023 (am) – Matthew 5:1-12

Andy Bruins preaching from Matthew on Sunday 2nd July 2023.

The Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7 is a sermon all about the Kingdom of God – Matthew calls this “The Kingdom of Heaven”. In this opening section (sometimes called “The Beatitudes”) we see Jesus laying down the “norms” of the Kingdom; those things that must characterise all who have truly entered that Kingdom.

Q If God rules over everything, what exactly is the Kingdom of Heaven/God?

Q Read through v1-12. Can you describe what is being described and what is being promised in each of the 8 statements in v3-10:

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 sons of God.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Q What does it mean to be “blessed”?

Q How do we see the “now” and the “not yet” of God’s Kingdom in these verses?

Q How do you think we today, as disciples of Christ, are supposed to apply these verses to ourselves? Which ones particularly challenge you? Why should we not be discouraged when we fall short (Philippians 1:6)?