Get the appThe Sermon on the MountSample
Blessed are the pure in heart
The Greek word for pure is καθαροὶ (katharoi) – literally "having been purified". It's essential to remember that God must cleanse our hearts and that we are not capable of doing it alone (Psalm 51:7,10). The Pharisees placed great importance on formal cleansing rites, but Jesus urged that the priority should be on having a pure heart (Luke 11:37-40).
It is important to keep our hearts pure before God (1 John 1:9). Having a pure heart is linked in the Bible to communion with God that must be sought and maintained (Psalm 24:3-6; 2 Timothy 2:22).
The pure in heart will see God. This has a threefold meaning:
- Experiencing God's presence now (John 3:3; Hebrews 12:14).
- Contemplating God's glory as we are being transformed into His image (2 Corinthians 3:18).
- Being admitted into His presence at Christ's return (1 John 3:2,3; Revelation 22:3,4).
Who can say, “I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin”? (Proverbs 20:9 NIV). It's important not to deceive ourselves about this. Human efforts will never be enough.
- Do you rely on God to have a pure heart, and keep it pure, or do you think you can do it yourself?
About this Plan
“The Sermon on the Mount” is the title often given to chapters 5-7 of the Gospel of Matthew. It is a summary of the teaching of Jesus. Although the other Gospels present some similar passages in other contexts, it is likely that Jesus actually delivered this speech on only one occasion, but then repeated the same concepts several times on other occasions as well. Matthew Henry, the great Bible commentator, says that the purpose of the Sermon on the Mount is “not to fill our heads with notions, but to guide and regulate our practice”.
More
Related plans
OVERCOMING JEALOUSY THROUGH the HOLY SPIRIT
Devotions on F.I.R.E. Year Two
Unexpected Riches: Finding the Rare Jewel of Contentment
Yom Kippur - the Perfect Atonement: The Messiah's Sacrifice
Mary Magdalene's Journey: 'Grace Restores' (Part 4)
Faith Over Fear
21 Days of Selfess Living
When Anger Strikes
The Grace to Stay: Holding on When Marriage Is Hard
