Matthew 5:2–12 (ESV) — 2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. 5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. 6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. 7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. 8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

The first four blessings are dispositions of the heart:

Blessing #1 - Aware of spiritual poverty

Blessing #2 - Sorrowful for sin

Blessing #3 - Humble before God

Blessing #4 - Pursuing Righteousness

• This fourth step represents a hunger to BE and DO righteously 
• The first three are turning and repenting; this is the "GO AND SIN NO MORE!"
• These first four points can be seen clearly in the story of the prodigal son.
  • Awareness
  • Sorrow
  • Humble
  • Pursuing righteousness

The second four blessings come from actions:

Blessing #5 - Show mercy to others 

• Our blessing now comes from bearing the fruits of repentance. 
• We release others and give mercy
  • Mercy is forgiveness
  • Mercy is patience and longsuffering 
  • Mercy is alms 

Blessing #6 - Pure devotion to God

Blessing #7 - Maker of peace

• Bringing down walls of hostility, separation, and hatred between people. 
• Building bridges of healing, brokering peace. 
• Bringing peace into chaos. 

Blessing #8 - Persecuted for righteousness' sake

• The early apostles rejoiced when they were persecuted! They were given the privilege of suffering for the Lord. 
• When you are persecuted, it is a sign that you are BOLD
• When you are persecuted, it is a sign that you are LIKE JESUS
• When you are persecuted, it is a sign that you are FAITHFUL
• When you are persecuted, it is a sign that you are DEAD TO THIS WORLD

What are the blessings attached to each of these?

• Yours is the Kingdom of Heaven 
• You will be comforted
• You will inherit the earth
• You will be filled with righteousness
• You will be shown mercy
• You will see God
• You will be called children of God
• Yours is the Kingdom of Heaven