Some of the most frequently explored teachings of Jesus are found in Matthew 5:3-12, collectively referred to as the Beatitudes. At best, this series of statements can seem rather confusing and difficult to understand; at worst, it can seem contradictory and absurdly paradoxical. Let’s explore these statements a bit further.

Me, Me, Me!
Suppose the Beatitudes were rewritten like this:

Blessed are:
The poor in spirit (for then you have nowhere to go but up).
Those who mourn (for it keeps you from developing unrealistic expectations).
The meek (for you gradually toughen up from getting picked on all the time).
Those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (for it gives you that drive you need to get ahead).
The merciful (for it’s a good way to lull your enemies into a false sense of security).
The pure in heart (for then you can brag about following all of the rules).
The peacemakers (for then you can at least feel like you’re in charge).
Those who are persecuted because of righteousness (for then you have something to blame your failures on).

The first portion of each “blessing statement” is an accurate reflection of the wording in Matthew 5:3-10. The second portion (those lines in parentheses) are departures from Scripture. These endings are how I could finish each sentence if I were only concerned with the here and now, if I were focused only on minimizing my own inconveniences, and if heavenly rewards were not at all important to me. They follow each state or condition (such as being poor in spirit) with an earthly outcome that seems desirable. These conclusions focus on rising above others, gaining control, and benefiting only one person—me. I call this collection of statements the “me-atitudes.”

He . . . He
A key ingredient to understanding the true nature of verses 3-10 is found at the end of verse 11—namely, the three words “because of me.” Jesus says those who follow him definitely will receive harsh or unfair treatment. At the same time, Jesus says it is because of him that we may view the Beatitudes as a blessing and not a curse. Knowing who Jesus is, and more importantly, having a personal relationship with him, can help provide a completely new perspective on the blessings promised by the Beatitudes.

A well-worn T-shirt of mine sports these words, “Who you know determines where you go. Know Jesus.” (See Romans 6:23.) This statement helps us focus on Heaven and Hell, and ultimately, how one reaches each (which is certainly an important message). However, I also think knowing Jesus greatly influences our daily routines, such as “where we go” with our thoughts, priorities, and actions. Knowing how Jesus responded to situations, and knowing the qualities and character he exhibited, helps us embrace the Beatitudes in a whole new light. When we realize Jesus had heavenly, eternal outcomes in mind, these “blessed are” statements suddenly make more sense.

Jesus can turn unpleasant, unwanted, and unjust circumstances into something good. Because Jesus sets the supreme example for us, we can rejoice and be glad, and know that we’ll have great rewards in Heaven (Matthew 5:12).

We
The title of this lesson speaks of community, which implies a sharing in common. The Beatitudes were not written for a single person’s benefit, nor are the lessons they teach possible to learn in isolation from others. The Beatitudes are a common set of values, meant to be shared by the entire Christian community. They are traits that WE are to live out together as followers of Christ.

Jesus follows up the Beatitudes with two examples of the importance of community (Matthew 5:13, 14). In his first example, Jesus encourages his followers to be like salt, to flavor and season the world around them, and to exhibit their values to others through the way in which they live. A single granule of salt seasons very slightly. However, when you liberally sprinkle your saltshaker over that piece of steak or ear of corn, the result can be dramatic—the salt now can bring out the very best flavor in the food. Clearly, we are meant to work together if we are to positively affect the world around us.

Jesus’ second example of a city on a hill can be interpreted in similar fashion. A city on a hill, especially when lit up at night, can be seen from a great distance away. Contrast that with a lone individual on a hillside holding a candle. Once again, you can see the power of community when it comes to Christians making an impression on the world.

QUESTIONS FOR YOUR GROUP
Jesus directs the Beatitudes to his disciples. Why do you think he picked this group to hear these teachings?

Consider the lessons being taught in the Beatitudes. Compare and contrast how worldly values clash with God’s rewards in regards to each of the “blessed are” statements there.

The Beatitudes begin and end with “the kingdom of heaven” (vv. 3, 10) as God’s reward. Is this significant?

What are some practical ways Christians can help each other to more consistently exhibit the attitudes demonstrated in the Beatitudes?

FOR PERSONAL REFLECTION
Do you exhibit any “me-atitudes” that need to be changed?

Are you a “hillside candle holder”? What is preventing you from living in “a city on a hill”?

________

* All Scripture quotations are from the New International Version, unless otherwise indicated.