Yesterday we highlighted the importance of Jesus' teaching ministry and the fact that the miracles were a demonstration of the presence of the kingdom of God. In the following verses, we see Jesus as the new lawgiver, mirror Moses as he gives his teaching from the mountain top (hills around Capernaum, just like Moses gave the law from Sinai). He taught them, the principles which are to govern life in the kingdom. These are the principles which those who are truly his disciples would imbibe.
He pronounced the word 'blessed' for those who would live by these principles. This word is more than just 'happiness‘ but has in it the idea of the total well being in relation to God, which those who practice these principles would obtain.
It is important that Jesus begins the beatitudes by talking about the poverty of the spirit, which implies the attitude of dependence on God that is different from the self righteousness and spiritual pride of the Pharisees. Those 'who mourn' represent penitence and sorrow over sin while 'meekness' is a disposition of helpless dependence on God that manifests in gentleness towards men.
How do we measure up to this today? Compare these attitudes with th 'spiritual pride' that is so commonly exhibited today, should we not repent?
The merciful are those who show mercy in their dealings with others remembering that they themselves have obtained mercy from God. Have you observed that people rarely show mercy; even believers! Purity of heart is about seeking an inward uprightness as against the external show of righteousness that was common among the Pharisees and also today.
Organisations like the United Nations, etc. are set up to promote peace on earth and yet there is no peace! Jesus followers are supposed to be people who work to promote peace, but are we?
Today, being born again is celebrated, we exhibit it! But righteousness will often meet with opposition. When it happens how do we react? Are you being reviled or abused, persecuted or oppressed and are people saying all manner of lies and evil against you? Remember first, that you are not alone; it is an old tactic of the enemy. Secondly rejoice for there is an eternal reward for you.
This is the way the sons and daughters of the kingdom ought to live. Jesus likened his disciples to 'salt' and 'light'. Salt serves as seasoning and preservative while light brings illumination. If any of these loses it purpose then it is useless. In the same way that God's purpose is frustrated in the life of a disciple who lives as though he were not one.
Prayer 1. Dear Father, deliver me from all forms o's spiritual pride and teach me to do absolutely on you in Jesus name.
Prayer 2. Dear Lord , help me to be conscious that I am a city on a hill. So that I might live to glorify you.
When we analyse Jesus ministry, it is one based on love. He also brought the new commandment - which is to love Jehovah with all our heart and also display love for our neighbours. Thanks for your contribution.
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So do not let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil. For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
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The beautitudes was one of Jesus's most outstanding teachings, he used this beautitudes to reach and teach people, the way the kingdom of God works.
I was inclined to look at blessed are the peacemakers these are of course people who are trying their best in other to promote peace, the bible made us understand that these kinds of people are really important to God.
Which perspectives do you fall into? In Christ's kingdom, our works and services on earth will prove very important, that's why we must take heed and bear good fruit
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To secure the kingdom of God is by living a holy life, The kingdom of God is our priority on earth.thanks for sharing
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As a christain we need to pray and meditate in the word of God. We need to studied the way of christ and put it into action.
Thanks for sharing.
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Thanks you for sharing this post my firend. God Bless you @fredoski
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One of the principles of the kingdom is exhibiting the lifestyle of righteousness and holiness this can be attained if and only if we surrender every path of our lives to christ. We are salts and we are light. Let us all affect the earth by exhibiting and practicing the principle of the kingdom here on earth. "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven."
SHALOM!
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This is a great and wonderful message. He pronounced the word 'blessed' for those who would live by these principles. This word is more than just 'happiness‘ but has in it the idea of the total well being in relation to God, which those who practice these principles would obtain. It is important that Jesus begins the beatitudes by talking about the poverty of the spirit, which implies the attitude of dependence on God that is different from the self righteousness and spiritual pride of the Pharisees. Those 'who mourn' represent penitence and sorrow over sin while 'meekness' is a disposition of helpless dependence on God that manifests in gentleness towards men. This is the way the sons and daughters of the kingdom ought to live. Jesus likened his disciples to 'salt' and 'light'. Salt serves as seasoning and preservative while light brings illumination. Thanks for sharing
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We all need to part take in the ministry of christ
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Thanks for sharing with SteemChurch.
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The purpose of these principles in the bible is for our own guidance. In difficult situations they can actually be a lamp that will light up our roadway. Thanks fr sharing this.
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Thanks a lot bro I really appreciate your contribution
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Prayer is the power and key for us..👍🙏
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True talk dear
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