Q: #131. What are the Beatitudes?
A: The Beatitudes (from the Latin word “beatitudo,” meaning “blessedness”) are considered by most as Jesus’ most important sermon of all time, and were given during His Sermon On The Mount. When Jesus gave us these Beatitudes, He outlined what a follower of His should be like, and how they will be blessed both now, and in Heaven if they follow these teachings. I will show these verses as found in (Mt 5:3-12) below. As you read them, notice how they differ from what most people consider “blessings.”
(Mt 5:3) Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
(Mt 5:4) Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
(Mt 5:5) Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
(Mt 5:6) Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
(Mt 5:7) Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
(Mt 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
(Mt 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.
(Mt 5:10) Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
(Mt 5:11) Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
(Mt 5:12) Rejoice, and be exceedingly glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
The Beatitudes are also found in (Lk 6:20-26), although there are not as many listed, and the ones listed are worded a bit differently than those above. However, Luke also adds 4 “woes” to the Beatitudes that I would like to list as well.
(Lk 6:24) But woe unto you that are rich: for ye have received your consolation.
(Lk 6:25) Woe unto you that are full: for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now: for ye shall mourn and weep.
(Lk 6:26) Woe unto you, when all men shall speak well of you: for so did their fathers to the false prophets.