Bellon--Theology 9 TEST--Beatitudes Meanings

Beatitudes

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God.

People who are humble and admit they need God will be worthy of heaven

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted

People who have lost important people or things and are sad because of it can get comfort from God

Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth

Meek means someone who does not try to achieve success or gain power at the expense of others. They trust in God to direct the way things will turn out.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied

Those who seek God’s kingdom and desire their relationship with Him to be just and true will experience a heart full of joy and peace.

Blessed are the merciful, for they shallobatin mercy.

God’s mercy on us is to withhold a just punishment (one that we deserve.) Those who forgive others are generous and helpful, and God wants us to be that way, so we are like him.

Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.

People with integrity, moral courage, and godly character--who are kind and expect nothing in return--will see God.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the Sons of God.

Peacemakers are people who try to fix other people’s problems and help them be peaceful. These people will be identified as the children of the “God of peace.”

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

To endure punishment or abuse for one’s beliefs requires a lot of faith. Many people believed during the Old Testament times that this made people heroes and gave them a path to heaven.