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THE BEATITUDES OF JESUS
To every disciple Jesus is providing
His own transforming nature. Ephesians 3:16.
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of
heaven.
Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall
inherit the earth.
Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see
God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.
Blessed are they who are
persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Gospel of St. Matthew 5:3-10
The Ten Commandments, given to Moses on Mount Sinai in the Old Testament Book of Exodus, relates a series of "You shall
not," ten evils one must avoid in daily life on earth.
In contrast, the message of Jesus is of humility, worship,
and brotherly love.
He taught transformation of the inner person, not what you say, but who you are by the power
of God. 1 Peter 2:4.
Jesus presents the Beatitudes in a positive sense, virtues in life which are the ultimate
reward. Love being the motivation for the Christian.
After the cross, the redemption by the blood, the continuing
message of Christ is that all of the Beatitudes have a heavenly citizenship meaning, that is, they guarantee us salvation
- not only in this world, but inheriting His new nature we will have the ability to live in the next world.
No
longer may we rely on merely hearing the word of the cross, but worshipping Christ we are changed from glory to glory each
day, each week and each year, until the image of Christ is seen in us. 2 Corinthians 3:18.
Dear Lord, I am without
an excuse, for you have the ability to overwrite my old nature with your pure Nature, create this work in me, and transform
me please. Thank you Lord Jesus. Amen.
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