Introductory Video

For the video introducing Life in the Kingdom of God (Reflections on the Sermon on the Mount), click here.

Biblical Text

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5.1-3, NRSV)

Reflection Video

For the video with the reflection on Matthew 5.1-3 click here.

Clarifications

The Greek word makarios translated “blessed” carries the notion that the person designated as makarios is the privileged recipient of divine favor. The emphasis falls not on the state of the person but on the fact that God’s favor is directed toward the person because of their state. 

The phrase “kingdom of heaven” is another way of saying “kingdom of God” and it refers to that realm—not necessarily physical, but not merely spiritual either—in which God’s will is done. In Matthew the phrase “kingdom of heaven” is used rather than “kingdom of God” so as not to offend the sensibilities of those who use circumlocutions while referring to God.

Questions

• In which areas of your life could you say that God’s will is done—that he is king?
• What is it that gives you assurance that you will be able to eat and pay rent? What justifies having this assurance?
• Have you ever looked at a poor person and felt sorry for him or her? How does Jesus feel when he looks at them? If there is a difference between how you feel and how Jesus feels, what do you think is the reason?