Sermon on the Mount: The Beatitudes

Sermon Notes

Sermon on the Mount

Chapter 1: The Beatitudes, Matthew 5:1-12

1. The Context

a.    John the Baptist prepares the way.

b.    Jesus’ Baptism

c.     The Temptation

d.    Jesus begins to Preach: “The Kingdom of God is near!“

e.    Calling Disciples

f.      Healing the sick; casting out demons; crowds

2. The Radical Values of the Kingdom of God

a. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” 

b. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted”

c.  Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.”

d. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”

e. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”

f. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.”

g. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”

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

Study/Discussion Questions

1. What is the importance of the Sermon on the Mount in the context of Jesus’ ministry?

2. What is a “Beatitude”?

3. Why are the “poor in spirit” blessed? Why are “those who mourn” blessed?

4. What does it mean to “hunger and thirst for righteousness”?

5. In what ways does being a “peacemaker” reflect the heart of God?

6. Why are the “those who are persecuted” blessed?

7. What are some ways these beatitudes differ from the world’s value system?

---