Some would say that the Sermon on the Mount is essential for understanding what it means to follow Jesus. As you read the beatitudes, (Matt. 5:1-12), what do these describe about the nature of discipleship that is so crucial?
BIB-360 Topic 5 – DQ 1
November 21, 2023
Eli Ruiz
Professor and Classmates,
The Beatitudes are a significant foundation and we need to be understanding of it. Jesus was rationalizing with everyone at that time, as well as future generations the importance of them
being followed. Many beginners might not comprehend the Beatitudes because they have not been enlightened yet. But as we mature in the Lord we can see what the Beatitudes mean to us as
Christians. They condition our hearts to be more loving towards others as we are commissioned to live with love in our hearts towards the children of God. This is accomplished as we ask for grace and forgiveness when we fall to earthly sins. (Wenham & Walton, 2011).
Being blessed by grace as well as forgiveness can bring joy in our lives that we want to share with others, including our enemies. The disciples knew that when they follow the beatitudes it's like taking baby steps as you follow the steps of Christ and you try to become more like him. The first Beatitude explains that we must be grateful and appreciate what we have; we shouldn't think that the world owes us but that we owe our lives to God. (5:3). For the rest of the Beatitudes we can see that those that mourn, that are meek, those that hunger, as well as thirst for righteousness, are merciful, pure at heart, peacemakers; the persecuted will inherit the kingdom of heaven. The Beatitudes explain what we might have to go through much pain and
suffering, just like Jesus did. We know that if we give our lives to Christ and are persecuted, and give up our flesh to follow the lord we will suffer as much as Christ did. However, in the end, we
will receive what the Lord has promised us a place in his kingdom.
Pastor Eli
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. (2016). Bible Gateway. https://www.biblegateway.com/versions/English-Standard-Version-ESV-Bible/#copy (Original work published 2001)
Wenham, D., & Walton, S. (2021). Exploring the New Testament, volume 1. SPCK.
