Lakeview Christian Center

Praying the Beatitudes

Matt. 5:1-11

Students of Jesus

“Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them” (v. 1-2)

-Men and women committed to and living by Christ’s teaching
-Hearts that long to be directed by the rod & staff of their Shepherd
-Church filled with people who “receive with meekness the implanted Word, which is able to save your souls” (James 1:21)
-Abiding in Christ’s Word, and so proving to be His disciples (John 8:31)

Poor in Spirit

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. …Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (v. 3-5, 10)

-Eyes lifted from temporal possessions and pleasures to the eternal hope
-Fostering an atmosphere of humility and self-forgetfulness
“Naked, come to Thee for dress; helpless, look to Thee for grace”
-Gospel-comfort for those in the Body who mourn over sin
-Those suffering to hear Christ’s proclamation of “Blessed” over their life

Hunger & Thirst for Righteousness

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. …Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (v. 6, 8 )

-More of Jesus Christ, our Righteousness! (1 Cor. 1:30)
-A church that displays the holiness of God
-Grace-motivated, joyful obedience to the commandments of Jesus
-Purity that is rooted in satisfaction in God