The Be-Attitudes of Discipleship
“Mat 5:2 and He opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
Mat 5:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Mat 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Mat 5:5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Mat 5:6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Mat 5:7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Mat 5:8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Mat 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Mat 5:10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
The Sermon on the Mount by Jesus is considered to many as the “Magna Carta” of the Christian Faith. Jesus’ ultimate sermon is considered a Christian historical gem.
In no way oversimplifying what Jesus had to say, I find 8 Transcending truths we can grow from practically as Disciples of Jesus Christ.
1. Be-Dependent
2. Be-Real
3. Be –Humble
4. Be – Hungry for the right things
5. Be –Kind
6. Be- Pure
7. Be-Peaceful
8. Be-Brave
Be-Dependent (v3)
We will always be dependent on God. When we understand this truth, we take away from the enemy the power to entice us to live an “independent” life. An independent life looks like the one who has in their own perspective, “reached” the pinnacle of life. When you trust in your own abilities to accomplish heavens goals, you end up looking like a little kid using his thumb to cover the moon. From your perspective you’ve done it, but everyone else knows you look silly.
Be-Real (v4)
When you were lost, God found & saved YOU. When we remember the sin we came from & how God brought us out, it will protect us from going back and living there. Our pain may last through the night, but JOY comes in the morning. God is a God that comforts. All it takes is for us to be REAL.
Be- Humble (v5)
In God’s Kingdom, the way up is down. Notice Jesus says, …”For they shall inherit the earth” When you walk in this attitude, even the earthly workplace has to recognize the value in this demeanor. A Humble person recognizes the need to put himself aside for the benefit of those around him. Lisa Bevere said it best,
“If serving is below you, leadership is beyond you”
Be- Hungry (v6)
Being ambitious is not a sin. Being ambitious for all the wrong reasons, that’s where you can really run into trouble. Many young believers, pastors & leaders have let their own hunger for stardom & notoriety lead them astray. When the motives of your heart do not line up with the motives of heaven, the result is destruction & always wanting more. Jesus offers unlimited portions for those who hunger & thirst for HIM.
Be- Kind (v7)
Another word for “Kind” is “Mercy”. Jesus is calling us to respect & honor the things He has created. All of God’s design deserves kindness. Those who are around you, the things that have been given in your possession, even the animals we care for, all means all. Enemies? Be kind to them. Loud neighbors? Be kind to them. The Reward? You sow Mercy, you reap Mercy.
Be – Pure (v8)
A sign of true heart transformation is Gods word & actions flowing effortlessly through you. When Gods word is placed in you, what flows out is life. When sin is kept in you, what flows out is death. So how does one keep pure? Protect the intake! The psalmist puts it this way,
“I have stored up your word in my heart, That I might not sin against you.”
Be- Peaceful (v9)
Jesus is the ultimate example of a peacemaker. Having died on the cross for our sins, He established His Kingdom without raising one finger in violence. God is a God of reconciliation. Anytime we have an opportunity to overcome evil with good and bring about peace, we must take it. Remember, being a peaceful person should never be confused with weakness. The strong are those who understand when to fight & when to bring peace.
Be-Brave (v10)
In the face of opposition, a Christian who stands his / her ground is blessed. Private, Public or domestic, when we stand up for Jesus, He stands up on our behalf.