As told by Timothy R. Gaines in Walking the Theological Life, studying the Sermon on the Mount transformed the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Previously, Bonhoeffer had earned multiple degrees in theology, but he hadn’t yet become a Christian. Encountering the Sermon on the Mount, however, was “a revolutionary encounter that moved his faith from one of knowing about the kingdom Jesus was establishing to being caught up within it.”
As we study the Sermon on the Mount, we hope it will transform your life as well! Did Jesus preach from a podium? No. Unlike most pastors today, Jewish rabbis typically sat down to teach (vv. 1–2). Tradition says this discourse was given from a site overlooking the Sea of Galilee.
The Beatitudes with which Jesus begins are statements of blessing or happiness. These are not true for all people but are specifically referring to followers of Christ. These declarations are simple, profound, beautiful, and memorable. Collectively, they describe how we should live as we await His return.
The first group of people who are named as blessed or happy are the “poor in spirit,” that is, those who are humble (v. 3; see Phil. 2:5–8). As opposed to the proud, they know they need God’s help. Unexpectedly—because they are not rich, powerful, or important in worldly terms—they will be given the kingdom of heaven. This highlights the fact that the kingdom is a gift, not earned or deserved.
The second group who are named as blessed or happy are “those who mourn” or are “brokenhearted” (v. 4). This description covers people who are grieving or troubled. Thankfully, “they will be comforted,” ultimately by God (Rev. 21:4). After all, Jesus Himself was “a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief” (Isa. 53:3 ESV).
Go Deeper
What is the “kingdom of heaven” or “kingdom of God” in Scripture? What does it look like in the present? What will it look like in the future?
Pray with Us
Dear Father, please reveal Yourself to us in a new way as we study the Sermon on the Mount. Please transform our lives as we await Your return, and convict us where needed. We love Your Word!
He began to teach them.Matthew 5:2
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