The Good Life: Concluding the Beatitudes

Introduction:

Today, we conclude our series, The Good Life, based on the Beatitudes from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Let’s look at Matthew 5:7-12 as we unpack the final Beatitudes.

Matthew 5:7-12 (NIV):

7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.

12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

1. Blessed Are the Merciful (Matthew 5:7)

Mercy is withholding what is deserved—grace is receiving what is undeserved. Living mercifully means releasing grudges and forgiving others, reflecting the mercy we’ve received from God.

Example from Scripture:

In Luke 18:9-14, the tax collector, in humility, asks for mercy, unlike the Pharisee who boasts of his righteousness. Jesus says it was the tax collector who went home justified.

Reflection:

•Mercy follows meekness and humility.

•When you extend kindness or forgiveness—even when it’s undeserved—you embody God’s kingdom.

2. Blessed Are the Pure in Heart (Matthew 5:8)

Purity is about having an undivided heart wholly devoted to God.

Two Aspects of a Pure Heart:

1.Undivided Loyalty:

Elijah’s challenge in 1 Kings 18:21—“How long will you waver between two opinions?”—reminds us to abandon sin and worldly distractions. Leave behind the “burial clothes” of sin, pride, and wickedness.

2.Ongoing Cleansing:

Like cars or clothes, our hearts need regular washing. 1 John 1:9 assures us that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.”

3. Blessed Are the Peacemakers (Matthew 5:9)

Peacemakers actively pursue reconciliation and healing, not just keeping peace or avoiding conflict.

Reflection Questions:

•Do you work to bring unity in your family, workplace, or community?

•Are you a bridge builder or someone who stokes division?

Peacemaking is hard work, but as children of God, we are called to reflect His heart for harmony.

4. Blessed Are the Persecuted (Matthew 5:10-12)

Persecution for righteousness is not something we seek, but it’s a reality for those who follow Christ.

Illustration:

Marathon runners endure pain because they know the joy of the finish line. Similarly, Christians endure persecution with hope for eternal reward. Missionary Karen Watson captured this beautifully: “To obey was my objective, to suffer was expected, His glory my reward.”

Key Takeaway:

The good life is worth living because of the reward waiting at the finish line—eternal joy in God’s kingdom.

Conclusion:

The Beatitudes show a progression of faith, leading us to a life that reflects God’s heart. As we close this series, may we embrace this countercultural way of living, trusting in the blessings God promises both now and in eternity.