1. The Beatitudes
Matthew 4:23-25
Matthew 5:1

2. Purpose of These Teachings:
Some think they are spicy sayings like Confucius
Some feel they are unreachable & unattainable virtues
A statement by Jesus of principles that will make up the New Covenant or New Kingdom that was coming
Principles unlike any they have ever heard before

3. BEATITUDES: “Complete or perfect bliss or blessedness.”
Matthew 5:3 NKJV 3 "Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”

4. BLESSED:
“To pronounce happy or blessed. Designates not only a condition but also a consciousness.”
“A state of mind, not a moment of fun or pleasure.”
Applied to members of the coming kingdom

5. POOR: “Poverty…applies to those whose pockets are empty.”
“Humbled or made low by the mere fact he is without power to purchase & do what money can do.”
Being “poor” in our text used in reference to what a man “IS” & is not based upon what he “HAS” in his pockets

6. POOR IN SPIRIT:
Without spiritual strength & independence. Lacks power to elevate himself.
Poor in spirit is like the man with the empty purse – Ego empty, Pride empty, Ambition, will, power, ability & self sufficiency…empty!
Destitute of ability to make himself better – depends on God’s mercy

7. POOR IN SPIRIT:
He is the person who can see himself as he really is, LOST, UNDONE, DEPENDENT, DESTITUTE of any saving power.
On his knees before God’s throne with nothing in his hands to offer
Romans 7:24; Luke 18:10-13
The poor in spirit seek God on His terms alone

8. THEIR’S IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN:
Only hearts & character emptied of all pride & self worth will find the kingdom, enter and remain within
Must become as a “little child” to enter – Luke 18:17
ONLY when one is lowly of mind, humble, submissive can they find the happiness of the kingdom

9. Baptism – Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21 Obedience – Hebrews 5:8,9
Submission, Reverence & Poverty of Spirit Allows One to Overcome obstacles such as:
Baptism – Acts 2:38; 1 Peter 3:21
Obedience – Hebrews 5:8,9
Continued trust keeping commands of God daily – 1 John 2:3,4
Enables one to remain in the Kingdom they have entered – 1 John 5:13

10. What Gives Us The Most Trouble?
“SELF” & “PRIDE”
Opposed to the “poor in spirit” & cause us to say:
“I won’t serve”
“I can’t serve”
“I don’t like that”
“Poor in spirit” depends on God, listens to God & serves without any pause