Western Hills Christian Church: “You are family here!”

Text: Matthew 5:3-12

Introduction

Proposed formulas for happiness:

1. Happiness is equality for everyone.
2. Happiness is prosperity.
3. Happiness is (you fill in the blank).

I.  The Beatitudes of persecution and righteousness.  (Matthew 5:3, 10-12)

1. Poor in spirit (Matthew 5:3)
2. Persecuted because of righteousness (Matthew 5:10-12)

II.  The Beatitudes of hope.  (Matthew 5:4-9)

             1.  Blessed are those that mourn, for they will find comfort. (Matthew 5:4)

             2.  Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:5)

             3.  Blessed are those who hunger & thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
                  (Matthew 5:6)

             4.  Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. (Matthew 5:7)

             5.  Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. (Matthew 5:8)

             6.  Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. (Matthew 5:9)

Application

God’s radical reconstruction of the heart: (notice the sequence)

1. We recognize we are in need.
2. We repent of our self-sufficiency.
3. We quit calling the shots and surrender to God.
4. We can’t get enough of God.
5. We learn to forgive others.
6. We can change our outlook.
7. We love others.
8. We endure injustice.