The Beatitudes - Detailed Notes
The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:5-10)
1. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Recognizing both strengths and weaknesses, acknowledging imperfection.
Understanding the acceptance of seeking help from God, family, and friends.
Acknowledging the inability to always have one's own way.
Practicing non-materialism.
2. Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Showing sympathy for others.
Being compassionate towards those who are sad and distressed.
Having feelings for those who are less fortunate.
3. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Being humble, modest, and respectful to others.
Avoiding forcing opinions on others.
Being gentle and non-violent.
Not needing to be the center of attention.
4. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Fighting to make a positive difference in society.
Working against injustice and believing in fairness and equality.
Challenging oneself to become a better person.
5. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Being forgiving towards others.
Not seeking revenge or "getting even".
Being open to reconciling differences.
6. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Being honest in one's own heart.
Doing good things for the right reasons.
Being kind because it is the right thing to do, not for reward or good reputation. Doing good things, but doing them for the right reasons.
7. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called God’s children.
Peacemakers follow Jesus’ example, showing love and care to both friends and enemies.
Being problem solvers and assisting in dispute resolution.
Bringing people together and helping solve problems.
8. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for there is the kingdom of heaven.
Being true to who you are and what you believe in, even if others judge you.
Sticking up for friends when they are not being treated fairly.
Being strong enough to endure suffering for the sake of justice and love.
Beatitudes Examples
1. Someone in our family has passed away and you feel sad: 2
2. A country is killing all the people who have brown eyes. Canada sends troops to stop the killing: 4
3. Each day Michelle comes to work with a smile, with no make-up on and plain clothes. She knows her strengths and weaknesses and uses them to help the company: 1
4. An Eastern Orthodox keeps claiming that his Religion is the best. A Roman Catholic does not argue but respects the Eastern Orthodox religion: 3
5. Every day Eleanor comes to school and she is happy. She cannot afford to buy lunch so she brings her own. She does not complain that she cannot afford to buy lunch and she is happy with her lunch from home: 1
6. Walter is Jane’s neighbor and he has an accident with Jane’s car after borrowing it. Jane does not get upset and after she fixes the car lets Walter use it again: 5
7. Ava has just started teaching. Ella, an experienced teacher, helps her by giving her notes, ideas, and advice. Ella even backed her up when she argued with the principal: 5
8. Father John was thrown in jail for protesting at an abortion clinic: 8
Reflection Questions
A. How are the Beatitudes similar to The Ten Commandments?
B. When and how do people express mourning? Provide one example.
C. Would you be willing to give up your standard of living or a luxury item if it would help others live more humanly? Explain.
D. What does it mean to see with your heart instead of your eyes? Give a brief example.
E. What do you think takes more courage: to fight when insulted or to walk away? Give one example and briefly explain it.
F. Have you ever shown mercy for those who lost or broke something of yours?
G. In what ways can wealth be a curse? In what ways can poverty be a blessing?
H. What are some causes of conflict around the world? Provide two examples.
I. How can we speak for those who cannot speak for themselves? Give one example.