THE BEATITUDES: THE POOR IN SPIRIT
(Message by Tanny Keng)
1. The Beatitudes
a) In Matthew 5:1-12, the term "beatitude" means a state of great blessedness, or a saying that expresses that state. Blessedness is more than happiness.
b) These beatitudes lay down certain conditions in which God will give us his blessing and peace — an abiding joy not subject to the changing fortunes of this world. Blessedness is bestowed by God intentionally and purposefully, and it is sought from God in the same manner.
c) We must seek blessedness. It won't just “happen.”
2. The Poor In Spirit
Matthew 5:3
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
a) By "poor in spirit" Jesus does not mean "lacking spirituality". So, what does he mean? First, think about attitude toward money. If you desire to be rich with mammon and earthly possessions, that desire can lead to all kinds of spiritual problems. If you love and trust God rather than worldly wealth, and if you would gladly forfeit all earthly wealth for God, then you are "poor in spirit" because you don't wish to be rich — although of course you have the treasures of heaven.
b) Another meaning for "poor in spirit" is contrition, humility, and repentance. God loves, receives, and blesses the humbled and contrite soul. "A broken and contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise" (Psalms 51:17).
The End ...
1. The Beatitudesa) In Matthew 5:1-12, the term "beatitude" means a state of great blessedness, or a saying that expresses that state. Blessedness is more than happiness.
b) These beatitudes lay down certain conditions in which God will give us his blessing and peace — an abiding joy not subject to the changing fortunes of this world. Blessedness is bestowed by God intentionally and purposefully, and it is sought from God in the same manner.
c) We must seek blessedness. It won't just “happen.”
2. The Poor In Spirit
Matthew 5:3
"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."
a) By "poor in spirit" Jesus does not mean "lacking spirituality". So, what does he mean? First, think about attitude toward money. If you desire to be rich with mammon and earthly possessions, that desire can lead to all kinds of spiritual problems. If you love and trust God rather than worldly wealth, and if you would gladly forfeit all earthly wealth for God, then you are "poor in spirit" because you don't wish to be rich — although of course you have the treasures of heaven.
b) Another meaning for "poor in spirit" is contrition, humility, and repentance. God loves, receives, and blesses the humbled and contrite soul. "A broken and contrite heart, O God, Thou wilt not despise" (Psalms 51:17).
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