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The Beatitudes Lesson 10
Introduction:
1. We are presently studying "the Beatitudes" that Jesus presented as He began His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:3-12). 2. In the Beatitudes,: a. Jesus revealed some special blessings that are available to His followers b. Jesus gave His requirements for receiving these blessings. 3. In this lesson we are concluding a 2-part study of the 5th Beatitude -- "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy" (Matthew 5:7). 4. In this lesson we are concentrating on the rewards of being merciful as well as the consequences of being unmerciful. Discussion: I. TO RECEIVE MERCY FROM GOD WE MUST BE MERCIFUL TO OTHERS A. Jesus dealt with this principle as He taught the model prayer (Matthew 6:12). B. In His parable of "the unmerciful servant" (Matthew 18:21-35), Jesus showed how punishment is in store for those who show no mercy to their fellow man. C. In His description of the judgment (Matthew 25:31-46), Jesus revealed the destinies of those who showed mercy to Him as well as those who did not. II. THE LAW OF SOWING AND REAPING APPLIES TO BEING MERCIFUL A. We will reap on the basis of what we sow (Galatians 6:7-8). B. Those who sow to the flesh by being unmerciful will be punished. C. However, those who sow to the Spirit by being merciful will reap "life everlasting." III. STEPHEN SHOWED MERCY WHEN HE WAS KILLED A. (Acts 6:8-15) Stephen was a good man, but he was treated badly. B. (Acts 7:54-60) In his death he showed mercy to his enemies. 1. Stephen was able to do this by keeping his eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2). 2. By showing mercy as he did, Stephen set the proper example before Saul. Conclusion: 1. Those who are "poor in spirit" and who "mourn" are aware of their spiritual condition, and they depend upon God for mercy. 2. The "meek" and those who "hunger and thirst after righteousness" seek to do God's will to the best of their ability. 3. (Luke 6:36) Jesus taught us to "be merciful" as the Father is merciful. 4. Those who follow the Lord's instructions will receive mercy. | ||