Matthew: Part 1Sample

Matthew 5 begins what is known as the Sermon on the Mount. This is the longest collection of teachings we have from Jesus. 

It begins with a list of people who God blesses. God blesses the poor, those who mourn, the meek.

Now a lot of people think that this is a list of things that they have to do. In fact, this list is known as the Beatitudes. People sometimes say these are “be attitudes.” In other words, you have to be poor. You have to mourn. 

But, that’s not what this list is. This list isn’t a to-do list, but a list of good news.

It tells us that the people who often get pushed aside, disregarded, or ignored, God welcomes. And, God doesn’t just welcome them—He blesses them!

Take time to thank God that He doesn’t work the way the people work. Thank God that everyone is welcome—even you!