What Do the Beatitudes Mean — In Biblical Context

The Biblical Context

In Matthew 5:3-12, Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with eight statements beginning 'Blessed are…' These Beatitudes turn the world's values upside down. The 'poor in spirit' — not the self-confident — inherit the kingdom. 'They that mourn' — not the carefree — are comforted. The 'meek' — not the aggressive — inherit the earth. Those who 'hunger and thirst after righteousness' are filled. The 'merciful' obtain mercy. The 'pure in heart' see God. The 'peacemakers' are called God's children. Those 'persecuted for righteousness' sake' possess the kingdom. Each beatitude describes an aspect of the character God produces in His people — humility, compassion, righteousness, purity, peace, and endurance. Together they paint a portrait of the ideal citizen of God's kingdom, and ultimately a portrait of Jesus Himself. The Beatitudes are not a checklist for earning God's favor but a description of the transformed life that results from knowing God.

Where It Sits in Scripture

Supporting Passages