Matthew 5 

1. The Beatitudes describe the blessed state of every believer in Christ.  Explain the following phrases: 
   1. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” 
      
         
   2. “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” 
      
         
   3. “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth” 
      
         
   4. “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled” 
      
         
   5. “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” 
      
         
   6. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God” 
      
         
   7. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God” 
      
         
   8. “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” 
      
         
   9. “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven” 
      
         
2. In Jesus’ day, salt was used as a preservative for many types of foods.  Describe why you are the “salt of the earth,” the “light of the world.” 
   
      
3. What comfort do we receive in knowing that Jesus fulfilled the law and the prophets for us? 
   
      
4. The kingdom of heaven is not a place where the laws no longer exist.  Properly understood, the kingdom of God is a place where God’s will is in force to the highest degree.  Explain. 
   
      
5. Does Jesus really mean that we should cut off parts of our body so that we do not sin? 
   
      
6. What are the implications when we say, “It’s okay to look as long as you don’t touch,” in our society where visual images are used as tools to direct one’s thoughts and actions? 
   
      
7. Jesus points out to us that behind every sinful action is a sinful thought or attitude.  How can we ever possibly keep our hearts pure and free from sin?