Matthew 5

• Matthew 5:3 – This is talking about people in abject poverty that are looking for something. Those that are spiritually poor are looking for God. They are the ones who will allow Jesus to rule in their hearts.
• Matthew 5:4 – Those who are looking for something in their lives are miserable until they find God.
• Matthew 5:5 – The definition of meekness is strength under control. Those who are meek allow Jesus to lead. They will inherit the earth in a figurative sense. They were looking for the kingdom of heaven.
• Matthew 5:6 – If we really hunger and thirst for righteousness, we can be satisfied.
• Matthew 5:7 – Those who are merciful will receive mercy in the end.
• Matthew 5:8 – “Pure in heart” can mean pure of motive. People who serve God with a pure heart serve God for His approval, not man’s.
• Matthew 5:9 – Blessed are those who teach others how to have peace with God. The phrase “called sons of God” is a figure of speech. It refers to what they are in a higher sense.
• Matthew 5:10-12 – Christians will be persecuted.
• Compare David in Psalm 51 to these attributes.