Jesus began the Sermon on the Mount with a series of beatitudes describing in ideal terms the character of those who are citizens in His kingdom. To emphasize the difference between His kingdom and the kingdoms of the world, Jesus pronounced great blessings upon those who normally are not considered to be blessed.

The poor in spirit (v. 3) are those who realize that they stand spiritually bankrupt before God. Instead of approaching the kingdom with an arrogant attitude of entitlement, the kingdom belongs to those who humble themselves and profess their unworthiness before God (Luke 18:9-14).

These individuals will mourn their spiritual condition before God (v. 4); realizing their sins have offended their Creator and separated them from God. There is comfort for the penitent believer who humbly confesses his sin before God.

The meek are often trampled underfoot and left without any status or standing in this world (v. 5). Jesus says the meek will be the ones who “inherit the earth.” This was a Hebrew idiom (figure of speech) for complete victory that emphasizes the enormity of God’s blessing. In this world, the meek are usually left with nothing. In the kingdom, God will give them everything.

There is no greater physical need in man than hunger and thirst (v. 6). Such cravings must be satisfied. People who long after the things of this world are never satisfied (Eccl. 1:8; 5:10). However, those who desire to be right with God, and to do the things that are right before God, will be filled beyond measure.

An essential blessing is promised to those who are merciful (v. 7). Mercy is compassion for those who are in need; the ability to be touched by the sufferings of others and to be moved to help them. We are all in need of mercy and compassion at different times in our lives, and we will certainly need mercy from God. Those who show mercy will receive mercy from others and from God (James 2:13).

The Bible places great emphasis upon man’s heart (v. 8). Everything that man does originates from his heart (Prov. 4:23). If the heart is full of darkness and sin, man’s life will be defiled and rejected by God (Matt. 15:17-20). However, the one who purifies the thoughts and desires of his heart will see God (Ps. 24:3-4).

An honorable blessing is promised to those who are peacemakers (v. 9). Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Is. 9:6). He made peace between God and man through the blood of His cross (Col. 1:20). Citizens in His kingdoms must me willing and able to make peace with others. People of the world cause strife and division. Peacemakers will be identified as “sons of God.”

Those who are persecuted for the sake of the kingdom will be blessed (vv. 10-12). Those who endure persecution will receive a three-fold blessing – they know the kingdom belongs to them; they will receive a reward in heaven; and they are following in the footsteps of those who have gone before them.