Matthew 5:1-12

As Jesus began the most quoted sermon in history, he explained what the blessed or happy life looks like. Living according to the principles of the kingdom is a pivotal yet promising paradigm shift.

• The content of the Sermon on the Mount is to be the Kingdom standard in a confused culture.
• Jesus’ words are the standard to which disciples should ultimately strive.

#1. The poor in spirit receive the kingdom of heaven.
You don’t have to have it all together to be accepted by God.

#2. Those who mourn shall be comforted.
You have every right to admit that things are not the way they ought to be – in your life and in this world.

#3. The meek shall inherit the earth.
You don’t have to prove yourself to anyone in this world.

#4. Those hungering and thirsting for righteousness will be satisfied.
You shouldn’t quit if you aren’t spiritually where you thought you would be by now.

#5. The merciful will receive mercy.
You will be free to extend mercy when you appreciate how much of it you have personally received.

#6. The pure in heart will see God.
You can behold God better if you remove the impurities you’ve learned to accept.

#7. The peacemakers are children of God.
You don’t have to promote or permit bitterness in relationships.

#8. The persecuted can find joy and await a reward.
You don’t have to be ashamed of a faith that everyone else doesn’t accept.

• Most of our unhappiness can be traced to preferring the world’s ways over Jesus‘ path.
• If you want to experience the most blessed life possible, you must live it according to the One who gave it to you.