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The Beatitudes Lesson 01
Introduction:
1. We are beginning a study of "the Beatitudes" (Matthew 5:3-12). 2. Before we examine each of "the Beatitudes," in our first 2 lessons we are considering some introductory matters that relate to "the blessed life." Discussion: I. (Matthew 5:1-2) WHEN JESUS GAVE THE BEATITUDES HE WAS TEACHING A. (Matthew 4:23a) Teaching was the Lord's primary work. B. (Matthew 4:23b-24) Jesus also healed people -- His miracles proved that He is God's Son. C. (Matthew 4:25) Great crowds of people followed Jesus. D. (Matthew 5:1) When Jesus saw the multitudes, He "went up into a mountain" [an elevated place]. 1. After going up into this mountain, Jesus sat down [the common teaching position of that time]. 2. When Jesus was set His disciples came to Him, and He began to teach them. II. WHEN JESUS GAVE THE BEATITUDES HE WAS TEACHING HIS "SERMON ON THE MOUNT" A. This great sermon is recorded in Matthew 5-7. B. The things that Jesus taught were not like the things that the Jews were used to hearing. 1. The Lord's message was different, and His manner of delivery was different. 2. We learn this from the reaction of those who heard the Lord's sermon (Matthew 7:28-29). C. (Matthew 8:1) When Jesus finished His sermon and came down from the mountain, "great multitudes followed Him." 1. Jesus had challenged the people in His sermon. 2. He let His audience know what He required of them. 3. They are to be commended because they continued following Him. III. JESUS BEGAN HIS "SERMON ON THE MOUNT" BY GIVING THE BEATITUDES A. In "the Beatitudes" Jesus showed how people in 8 different categories will be "blessed" [fortunate, well off, happy]. 1. We normally think of a person being "blessed" when he receives something. 2. The blessings that Jesus talked about are spiritual blessings that come from God: being a part of the kingdom of heaven, being comforted, inheriting the earth, being filled with righteousness, obtaining mercy, seeing God, and being called the children of God. B. In order to enjoy these blessings we must meet the Lord's requirements given in "the Beatitudes." C. When Jesus gave "the Beatitudes" He was showing us how we can enjoy the abundant life that He came to provide (John 10:10b). D. By beginning His "Sermon on the Mount" with "the Beatitudes," Jesus probably got the attention of the people in His audience. IV. FOLLOWERS OF THE LORD MUST AVOID THE MISTAKES THAT ARE SO PREVALENT IN OUR SOCIETY A. Many people are searching for happiness through drugs, alcohol, promiscuous living, possessions, etc. B. Solomon learned that these things do not provide true happiness (Ecclesiastes 2:1-11). C. As we study "the Beatitudes," let us allow the Lord to teach us how to be truly happy. | ||