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{sermon on the mount}

  

UNEXPECTED BLESSINGS_ 

Matthew 5:1-12 

 
A hymn by William Cowper reminds us to look for blessings in unexpected places... 

You fearful saints, fresh courage take; 
The clouds you so much dread 
Are big with mercy, and shall break 
In blessings on your head. 

 
[Group discussion starter] The word “blessed” and the phrase “hashtag-blessed” gets thrown around a lot. How would you define the word “blessed”? 
Take some time to write your definition down and then share with the group... 

 

In the Beatitudes we find both the ‘simplicity of word’ and the ‘profundity of thought’ in one place. This section of the gospels has captured the thoughts and imaginations of Christians throughout the generations. The deeper we ‘dig’... the deeper it goes. The more we explore... the more we find there is to explore. 

 

[Read Matthew 5:1-12] 

 

How does our normal description of the “blessed/fortunate” person compare with those that Jesus considers “blessed”? 

 

One of the ways we can understand what it means to be “poor in spirit” (verse 3) is to acknowledge our own spiritual poverty, our own bankruptcy before God. 
Why is this described as a condition for receiving the kingdom of heaven?  

 
Why is it so difficult for us to admit our own spiritual poverty? 

 
In verse 4, why would those who are poor in spirit feel a need to mourn? 

 
Those who mourn feel sorrow not only for their own sin, but also for the sin they see around them. What have you heard / read in the news lately that causes you to mourn? 

 
How do you think those who mourn will be comforted? 

 
How would a true understanding of ourselves (verses 3-4) lead us to be “meek” (to have a humble / gentle attitude towards others)? 

 
From the world’s point-of-view, why is it surprising that the meek will inherit the earth? 

 
In the first 6 verses, what has Jesus said so far that might lead us to hunger and thirst for righteousness? 

 
[Activity] Biblical righteousness has three aspects: legal, moral and social. 
Think about, discuss and write down what it means to “hunger and thirst” for each of these... 

 
In verse 6, Jesus promises that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled. What kind of things can you do to help cultivate a healthy, hearty ‘spiritual appetite’? 

 
Jesus says that the merciful will be shown mercy (verse 7). 
Why do you think our treatment of others will affect God’s treatment of us? 

 
In verse 8, why would the promise of “seeing God” be reserved for those who are pure in heart? 

 
How can we be, not just “peace-keepers”, but “peace-makers” in our homes, churches, and society? 
 

 
How have (in the past) and might (moving forward) these Beatitudes challenged you to be different? 

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