1. Peter: (Greek: Petros meaning ‘Rock’) – Peter was one of the most prominent of the 12 disciples, a natural spokesperson and the leader of the early Christian church. His original Hebrew name was Simon, a common popular Hebrew name. Jesus gave him a name ‘Kephas‘, Aramaic name. John translated into it Greek ‘Petros‘ meaning Rock. (John 1:42 – “you will be called Cephas.”) Peter was native of Bethsaida (John 1:44), brother of Andrew, lived in a fishing town, Capernaum. (Mark 1:29) He was fisherman by occupation on the Sea of Galilee. He was married man. (Mark 1:30, 1 Cor 9:5)

2. John: (Meaning – God is gracious) John was originally the disciple of John the baptist (John 1:35), and he was introduced to Jesus in John 1:35-39. He was the brother of James and Son of Zebedee. He lived in Capernaum in Galilee, most probably native of Bethsaida. He was fisherman on the sea of Galilee with his brother and father. (Mark 1:19-20). He was one of the three disciples, closest to Jesus, with others being Peter and James.

3. James: (Greek Iakobos – the English word for Jacob meaning Israel or He Who Supplants His Brother). James was son of Zebedee (Mark 4:21), elder brother of John (Mat 17:1), by occupation, fisherman with his brother and father at the sea of Galilee, in partnership with Peter and Andrew. (Luke 5:10). He was the first disciple (apostle) to be martyred. (Acts 12:2)

4. Andrew: (Greek – Andreas, meaning ‘Manly’, man), brother of Simon Peter, son of Jonas, like his brother, lived in Capernaum, fisherman by occupation. He brought Peter his brother to Jesus. (John 1:25-42)

5. Philip: (Greek Philippos, meaning ‘Lover of horses’). He was a close friend of Andrew and Peter, a native of Bethsaida (John 1:44). Jesus called Philip near Bethany where John the baptist was preaching. (John 1:43) He persuaded and brought Nathaniel to Jesus. (John 1:45-51)

6. Bartholomew: (Greek – bartholomaios meaning Son of Talmai) He is mentioned in all four lists of the apostles. There is no other reference to him in the New testament. Nothing much is known about him.

7. Thomas: (Greek – Thomas from Aramaic – te’oma meaning ‘twin’) Also called ‘Didymus’ or ‘the Twin’ (John 11:16, 20:24, 21:2). When Jesus appeared to the the apostles after resurrection, Thomas was not present. Later on, when disciples told him, he could not believe them, until Jesus showed himself a week later. (John 20:24-29). His occupation is unknown.

8. Matthew: (Greek – maththaios - meaning ‘gift of Yahweh’) also called ‘levi’ (Mark 2:14, Luke 5:27). He was a tax collector by occupation. Jesus called him to be one of his disciples, when was was at a tax office. (Mat 9:9, Mark 2:14). He is ascribed as the author of Gospel according to Matthew.

9. James, the son of Alphaeus: one of the apostle of Christ. Nothing much is known about him.

10. Thaddaeus: He is mentioned in two of four lists of Jesus’ disciples. (Mat 10:3, Mark 3:18). The other two lists is also variously called him Jude of James, Jude Thaddaeus, Judas Thaddaeus or Lebbaeus. Nothing else is known about him apart from his names in two lists.

11. Simon the Zealot: Another disciple of Jesus. a member of a party later called ‘Zealots’ (Matthew 10:4, Mark 3:18)

12. Judas Iscariot: The disciple who betrayed Jesus. His last name ‘Iscariot’ is from Hebrew word ‘Ish Kerioth‘ meaning ‘a man from Kerioth’, a place in the south of Judah (Joshua 15:25). He was a treasurer of the group. (John 12:6, 13:29). After his betrayal of Jesus, he was grieved for his actions, and committed suicide. (Matthew 27:5). He is always mentioned last in the list of apostles.

Check out: Conditions of Discipleship According to Jesus

More Bible Studies:

• Jesus Calming the Storm – Bible Lesson
• Miracle of Jesus at Cana Wedding – John 2:1-11 | Bible Study
• Christian Discipleship: Definition | Cost of Discipleship
• Feeding the 5000 | Bible Study
• Jesus Christ – The Cornerstone of the Church

Jesus’ Disciples Names: List, Meaning and Occupation is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

Matthew 5: 10-12 - “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for their is the Kingdom of Heaven.”

Meaning of Word ‘Persecuted’:

To be pursued, follow after, suffer, chase after, to run after with hostile intent, to hunt. Persecution and all the variations of this word are used in the bible approx. 76 times. The word has a strong meaning of being followed or chased after. It is like a continuous, ruthless chase to hunt down the prey!

Bible Verses about Approach to Persecution:

• 1 Peter 3:13-14 – “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.”
• 1 Peter 4:12-14,16,19 – “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you…However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name….So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”
• Phil 3:10-11 – “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.”
• Romans 8:18 – “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Beatitudes: Great Paradox:

• This last beatitude is the most striking and contradictory of all the beatitudes. For how can you rejoice or be blessed, when you are going through insult, persecution, suffering, even death for doing good or right? Yet, Jesus very clearly proclaims ‘blessedness’ for those who are being persecuted for the sake of righteousness. He also mentions similar message in Matthew 10:16-28.
• For the first century Christians, persecution was a norm rather than an exception.
• Peter and Paul, the first apostles to Jews and gentiles, also reiterate and often desire for sharing and participating in suffering with/for Christ. (check out bible references below)
• It should be noted that it is not in the suffering or pain, we rejoice, but it is in the hope of God’s glory to be revealed. (There are some who like to be sad, who somehow enjoys in their pain!)
• We, Christians however, rejoice in their suffering for the righteousness, due to the fact that we participate in suffering of Christ, that we bear his name, and that we will be overjoyed when Christ’ glory will be revealed in us. It is our privilege to suffer with Christ.
• It is not the suffering, but the Cause that makes a Martyr.
• People may say that this is absolutely absurd. yet, we all believe in a idea of pain and suffering for future joy. A good example of this is a ‘child-birth’. Mother goes through immense pain and struggle, with pain intensifies as the time comes nearer. For her, the present pain is not worth comparing with the joy she will experience in her child. Nobody finds it strange, in fact, women long and desire motherhood. Her focus is not on the suffering, but the joy that her child will bring.
• We find it difficult to grasp rejoicing in suffering because we have not seen the complete picture. Even among many Christians, there is a growing tendency to focus on earthly blessings. (It is not to say that one should not desire good in this life.) But Jesus (and first disciples) always focused on future hope and glory.
• There are parts of the world, where people are being persecuted for Christ. For them, following Christ means suffering, rejection and even death. They are blessed or privileged to share in suffering with Christ.
• We may not go through physical persecution or suffering, but we all feel being constantly chased after by the enemy of Christ. When we pursue righteousness, we may find being constantly running or fleeing from the spiritual forces, who are after us to knock us down.

The Promise: Blessed Hope:

However, this is not the end. Jesus offers those who are persecuted for his name, the inheritance in the Kingdom of Heaven.  At present, we don’t see it, yet we believe in it and we rejoice in that hope and future. (Romans 8:24) Paul rightly say that our present sufferings are not even worth comparing with the glory that will be manifested when Christ will return.

This ends the eight part bible study series on the beatitudes. I hope that you would have enjoyed this series as much as I have and pray that it would bring new and fresh perspective in your personal walk with Christ. In the end, I would like to finish with this beautiful, timeless hymn from Fanny Crosby, which truly captures the joy, hope and assurance of Kingdom of God.

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.

Perfect submission, all is at rest;
I in my Savior am happy and blest,
watching and waiting, looking above,
filled with his goodness, lost in his love.

This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long;
this is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.

Check out,

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are those who are Persecuted because of righteousness
More Bible Studies:

• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes – Part 6 of 8
• Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness – Beatitudes Bible Study | 4 of 8
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8
• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Beatitudes: Meaning and List

Persecuted for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study – Part 8 of 8 is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

Matthew 5:3-12

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

This is the seventh beatitude mentioned in Matthew 5:3-12.  It would have shocked most jews in the crowd. Jews were looking for ‘Messiah’ who would overthrow the Roman empire and establish earthly kingdom. But Jesus supports peace and encourages the peacemakers. Once again, Kingdom of Heaven defies the norm of earthly kingdom, which is established by power, force and wars.

Group Exercise:

• Ask your Group: Who do you think are the famous peacemakers in history?
  • Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Mother Teresa… (Coincidentally, many of them are strongly influenced by life and teaching of Jesus!!), Jesus Christ himself.
• Find out people who have been awarded noble prize for peace & their contributions to the society.
• Think of Non profit organizations, which promotes peace and goodwill of others. Discover their roots.
  

  

Blessed are the Peacemakers:

• The very essence of peace is the Love one has received from God first. You cannot love others, unless you have experienced God’ love in first place. (Many may not agree with this statement.)
• Luke 6:27-28 – “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
• John 13: 35 – “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
• 1 Peter 3:9 – “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
• Think about first century Christians, even in the most atrocious persecution, they refused to react violently, but always promoted peace.
• Peace makers are not only those who have a broader influence, but also those whom we turn to in our daily lives. You may find certain people in your church, community, family, workplace. These are the people who resolves differences and conflicts to maintain peace.
• The reward for the Peacemakers is very unique. “They will be called sons of God.” People may critique their methods or ways, but they cannot deny their work or the fact that it can only come from God.

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Peacemakers

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the PersecutedMore Bible Studies:

• Beatitudes: Meaning and List
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8
• Beatitudes: Blessed are Poor in Spirit – 8 Part Series
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8
• Persecuted for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study – Part 8 of 8

Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8 is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

• Mark 10: 17-27
• Matthew 19:16-27
• Luke 18:18-27

Q. What can we know about the rich ruler from these passages?

• Young man
• Very rich (Luke 18:18)
• Ruler, respected in society
• Sincere, very well mannered
• Religious Jew from his childhood
• Seeker, enthusiastic, willing and eager to learn (Mark 10:17)
• He had a great question to ask. After all, what can be a better way than to start a conversation with the question about Eternal life!
• This was not the only time, Jesus was asked this question. In Luke 10:25-37, One of the teachers of the Law, asked similar question to Jesus. However his intention was to test and trap Jesus. (check out – Authority of Jesus questioned by Teachers of the Law)
• This rich ruler had no such hidden agenda, he was sincere in his request.

Q. What can we infer from his question about eternal life to Jesus?

• He presumed that there is an ‘eternal life’ and it is worth receiving or inheriting!
• Jews always believed that one can be justified and saved through their works according to the Law. So, he assumed that he can do something to inherit the eternal life.
• He was sincerely following all the commandments form childhood (according to him), but he still wanted to be assured of his destiny.
• There is a deep conviction in all of us, that there is an eternal life; and it is to be greatly desired. King Solomon has put it in Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes 3:11:”He (God) has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”

Q. How did he address to Jesus?

• He called him, a “good” teacher/master. It was a common title used by the Jews to call their religious leaders or teachers, meaning – “most excellent”. The expression (’Good’) was used to show the reverence or respect to the teacher.

Q. What did Jesus answer?

• First, he dealt with his address, “why do you call me good?”. In Matthew, the question is little different from Mark and Luke, “Why do you ask me about what is good?”
• Jesus’ intention was not to deny his divinity. Jesus was not saying, “I am not God, so don’t call me good, which applies only to God!” (Many people, especially Muslim scholars, have falsely used this verse to disprove Jesus’ divinity.)
• Secondly, he did not intend to say that everything else is bad or evil, and one should not use word “good” except for God!
• His intention was to raise the standard with which God measures ‘goodness’. This was not the only time, he raised the bar. In his sermon on the mount, he told his audience, that according to God’s standard, even an anger could be as grievous as murder and lustful eyes are as sinful as adultery. God judges not only by the external actions, but the motives and intent of heart also. (Matthew 5:21,22,27,28) Our standard of goodness falls far shorter than absolute Good, God is and desires.
• The rich ruler was convinced that he had followed the Law from his childhood, but in a moment, Jesus showed him that he was guilty of Greed. (Exodus 20:17). He loved money more than following God, and in that sense, he was guilty of breaking the first of ten commandments. (Exodus 20:3 – “You shall have no other gods before me.”)

Q. What was man’s response?

• He went away sad. He choose to hold on to his earthly treasures and security.
• Jesus loved him for his question and zeal. (Mk 10:21) But he did not call him back or lower his demands for discipleship. (check out Seven Conditions of Christian Discipleship)
• (I strongly believe that Jesus was testing his heart, and if he would have repented for his love for money and failures, Jesus would have accepted him.)
• He had a choice to accept his shortcomings, but he rather decided to went away, sad.

Life Applications:

• So often, when we read this passage, we ask ourselves, “does Jesus require such a strict call for all the Christians?” We often try to lessen the demands and cost of christian discipleship. But this was not the only time, Jesus asked his disciples for such radical call. in New Testament, we find numerous accounts of people leaving all behind, for following Jesus.
  • Luke 5:11 – Peter and Andrew left everything to follow Jesus
  • Luke 5:27-28 – Matthew (Levi), the tax collector left everything. (He must be rich!)
  • Luke 19:1-10 – Zacchaeus (Again, rich tax collector), gave bulk of his wealth to the poor and needy. (Even without Jesus asking!)  (Jesus and Zacchaeus – The Guest of Sinner)
  • Acts 2:44-45 – First Christians sold everything and gave it to the needy.
• Not only, first century Christians, but Christians throughout the history have gladly given up their family, home, country, careers, even their own lives in following Jesus.
• This is a Radical Call. Perhaps, the mandate for voluntary poverty is not for all, but the readiness to forsake anything and everything that can hinder ‘following Christ’ is for every Christian.
• What are the things, God is asking you to give up for him?

More Bible Studies:

• Definition of Theodicy: God and Suffering
• What does Bible say about Atheism?
• Shriveled Hands – Jesus Heals on Sabbath – Mark 3:1-6
• The Scribes Questions Jesus’ Authority – Mark 11: 27-33
• Christian Discipleship: Definition | Cost of Discipleship

Rich Young Ruler and Jesus | Luke 18:18-27 is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

Background:

• Mark 11:27 starts with ‘they arrived in Jerusalem again.” If we check the background of this event, there had been significant drama already played in Jerusalem in last few days. Let us look at last three days of Jesus.
• Day 1:
  • Jesus arrived in Jerusalem from Bethany. (Mark 11:1-10) This was his last week before crucification. He entered Jerusalem and was greeted by people as a ‘great messiah’, it was a triumphant entry.
  • On that day, he observed all that was going on in the temple, and went back with his disciples to Bethany. (Mark 11:11)
• Day 2:
  • Next day (Mark 11:12), Jesus on his way to Jerusalem, he passed by fig tree, when he did not find any fruit on fig tree, he cursed the tree. It was a visual parable for the disciples regarding the ‘barrenness of Israel’.
  • He then went to the temple in Jerusalem and drove out all the merchants and money changers. (Mk 11:15-18)
• Day 3:
  • Next day, disciples, on their way to Jerusalem, noticed that the fig tree was withered to its root (Mk 11:20)
  • Finally they arrived again in Jerusalem (v. 27). And were confronted by the chief priests and scribes in the temple courts.
  • By this time, the chief priests and scribes were already indignant by Jesus’ lack of respect of their ‘authority’, and were plotting to somehow trap him and kill him!

Q. Where was Bethany?

• Bethany was situated about 2 miles SE of Jerusalem, on the mount of Olives. (John 11:18)
• Meaning of Bethany: ‘house of unripe figs’!
• Home of Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha (Jn 11:1-2)
• Home of Simon the leper, where Jesus attended the feast of unleavened bread (Mark 14:1,3)
• It was around the city of Bethany, Jesus ascended into heaven. (Luke 24:50-51)

Q. Who were the scribes (Teachers of the Law)?

• Experts in the Law, whose profession was the systematic study and exposition of the Law
• Scribes were also called ‘teachers of the Law’.
• They often associated themselves with the Pharisees. (Mt 5:20, Mk 7:5, etc)
• They had developed and added many traditions and practices to the requirements of the Law, to insure sanctity of the Law. (Mk 7:3) These teachings were called ‘the traditions of the elders’. (Matthew 15:2-6)
• Jesus accused them for loading the common people with the “burdens that they can hardly carry.” (Luke 11:46)
• Scribes closely observed Jesus’ activities and ministry. And when Jesus refused to follow their traditions, they fiercely opposed him and tried to trap /kill him. (John 5:10-18, Mark 7:1-13)

Q. What questions did the Chief priests and the teachers of the Law ask to Jesus?

1. By What authority are you doing ‘these things’?
2. Who gave you authority to do this?

Q. What do their questions imply? What were the ‘things’ Jesus doing?

• Chief priests were the recognized authority in the matters of the temple, they allowed the money changers and traders to be in the temple courts. So when Jesus cleared the temple by driving out money changers, without their (chief priests) permission, it ticked them off.
• They assumed that Jesus did not possess any authority. They implied, “we did not give you this authority, then how can you do this?”

Q. What was so unique about Jesus’ reply?

• Jesus was not shaken by this sudden confrontation. He did not step back or withdraw himself. But he answered their question with a counter-question.
• Jesus’ question to them was, “who gave authority to John the baptist to baptize people? was it from men or from heaven (God)? (Ministry of John the Baptist)
• By his question, he took the matter to the objective level, Jesus indirectly asked, “Who ultimately gives the authority?”
• (So often, when we are confronted with some fundamental question about our belief, we try to defend ourselves by giving reasons after reasons, or plainly withdraw from the scene. But, asking a counter-question is an excellent way of shifting the focus from subjective level to the objective level.)

Q. What was the high priests’ response?

• They were baffled by this intelligent counter-attack.
• Their answer, “we do not know”, reflects their state of mind, they did not want to admit their failure, and at the same time, they wanted to please people also. So they stepped back by avoiding to answer.
• Jesus however, did not reply, “even I do not know!”, he replied, “I will not tell.”
• Jesus did not answer to them, but he did answer to his disciples. Matthew 28:18 – “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (John 17:1-2, John 5:26-27)

Applications:

• How do you respond when you face confrontation?
• What do you think, Jesus’ authority is from?

More Bible Studies:

• Three Magi’s Visit to King of the Jews – Matthew 2:1-12 | Bible Lesson
• Jesus and Beelzebub – Mark 3:20-30 | Bible Study
• Zacchaeus and Jesus – The Guest of Sinner
• The Sadducees and Jesus – Question about Resurrection
• Rich Young Ruler and Jesus | Luke 18:18-27

The Scribes Questions Jesus’ Authority – Mark 11: 27-33 is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

Matthew 5:3-12

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”

Meaning of being Merciful:

• Meaning: Compassionate, helpful, kind, giving towards the weak, sick and the poor
• This beatitude hardly seems as paradoxical as some of the other beatitudes. Today, most of us would agree that it is good to be merciful to others. However, when Jesus spoke these words, it was as shocking to the audience, as some other beatitudes.
• The Romans despised pity. Being merciful was rather exception. (It reminds me of a scene  in coliseum from the movie ‘Gladiator’, when the crowd cheered Maximus for sparing life of Tigris, bestowing him the title “Maximus the Merciful”.)
• The Pharisees were also very judgmental to others and showed little mercy. These could also be due to the common perception, that suffering was the result and deserving punishment of personal sin. Jesus accused and condemned the Pharisees for not showing mercy. (Matthew 23:23)
• Jesus’ ministry was marked with the compassion, love and care for the ‘unfortunate’ of this world. And the Christians are to have same attitude. Col 3:12: -”Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion.”
• Being Merciful is an action based emotion. You cannot truly be merciful or compassionate to someone, unless you really do something about it.
• It is not merely feeling bad about someone’s situation, it is an emotion which prompts one to act on it.
• It is one of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. (Kindness – Gal 5:22)
• Act of mercy first come from the realization that you yourself have been shown mercy by God.
• Luke 6:36: -”Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”
• Being merciful does not always mean joining Red Cross or World Vision or some social justice organizations, but it is also to show compassion to those who are around us, with a kind word or a smile or a small “Act of Random Kindness”! (ARK)
• It is a daily practice or lifestyle weather at home or workplace or in the neighborhood.

Jesus summarized it in a wonderful manner in Matthew 25:35-40, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’

The promise:

“They will receive (obtain) mercy as they show to others”.

Kindness and compassion are the integral part of Christian character combined with love and forgiveness. Yet, I often find myself struggling with it. Many times, I may be kind to someone out of obligation or duty, but in my heart, I find myself grumbling about it, often expecting return. But when I don’t get in return, same kindness, it harbors bitterness. It reminded me of parable of Jesus of servant who received mercy from his master, but did not show mercy to his fellow servant. (Matthew 18: 23-35)

Prayer:

“Lord, help me to remember the mercy and grace I have received from you, when I struggled to be merciful and kind to others.”

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Merciful

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the PersecutedMore Bible Studies:

• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes – Part 6 of 8
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8
• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8
• Beatitudes: Meaning and List

Blessed are the Merciful | Beatitudes Bible Study | 5 of 8 is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

Matthew 5:3-12

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”

Q. Meaning of hunger and thirst?

• ‘Hunger and thirst’ are strong words, meaning an ardent, eager, famishing, all consuming craving, desire and passion of the soul for God and his righteousness.
• Psalms often portrays picture of man craving and desiring more of God.
• Psalm 84: 1-2: “How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty, my soul yearns, even faints for the courts of the Lord.”
• Psalm 143:6: “My Soul thirsts for you like a parched land.”

Q. Meaning of ‘Righteousness’?

• The word ‘righteousness’ comes from Greek word “dikaiosyne”, meaning rightness, quality of rightness or justice.
• it is justice held in love, both within the man and in the world.
• It is the rightness judged by the standard of God’s law.
• Being right with God

Q. What are the things, people hunger and thirst for?

• People hunger and thirst for
  • Power
  • Fame
  • Money
  • Beauty
  • Sexuality
• There are, however, those who long for God. These are the people who are not just interested or satisfied by worldly things or pleasures. They are the ‘Seekers’.  It is often human tendency to neglect the spiritual needs. But these are the people who yearn after God.

Q. What does it mean to ‘hunger and thirst for righteousness’?

• It is not seeking self-righteousness, but it is the righteousness that comes from God.
• It is to depend, not on our own will-power to achieve it but upon God.
• In Jesus’ time, if there were anybody who would qualify for such earnest passion and zeal for God, that would be the Pharisees and the Scribes (Teachers of the Law). But in the same chapter (Matthew 5:20) Jesus makes a startling statement. “For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law, You will certainly not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” How can one attain a righteousness, which even Pharisees failed to achieve? What kind of righteousness Jesus is talking about?
• Romans 3:21-22 answers the question. “But now righteousness of God apart from the Law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who will believe.”
• So then, righteousness of God is available through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe in Him. And those who will seek him, will find him and will be filled.
• Jesus himself claimed to be the one who will quench the thirst.  John 7:37: “If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.”

Practical Applications:

• Hunger and thirst are not one time need, they are our daily needs. Our body need constant nourishment from food and water to function properly. In the same way, our spirit needs daily food too. Many Christians suffer from ’spiritual malnourishment’ due to lack of hunger and thirst or lack of feeding to their spiritual needs.
• Only God can quench our thirst and satisfy our hunger for righteousness.
• What do you desire most? Do you long for more of God in you life or have you lost that hunger and thirst?

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Beatitudes: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Persecuted

More Bible Studies:

• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes – Part 6 of 8
• Blessed are the Merciful | Beatitudes Bible Study | 5 of 8
• Beatitudes: Meaning and List
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8
• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8

Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness – Beatitudes Bible Study | 4 of 8 is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

“Blessed are the Meek, for they will inherit the earth” – This third of 8 beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) is a direct quotation of Psalm 37:11.

The meaning of Meek

• A person with humble and gentle heart
• It describes a person who is kind and considerate to others, even to those who oppose him, who is easily approachable, not prideful or resentful, not temperamental or harsh.
• It is an outward expression of inward humility, strength and spiritual poise. While others may act aggressively, the Meek walks in godly peace, others may claim their rights, the Meek focuses on his duties, while others may seek revenge, the Meek gives way for judgment of God.
• It does not imply weak, sad, subdued person or false modesty. But it portrays a man who willfully and joyfully considers his own life worth nothing, when compared to the greatness of God, he has experienced. The words of Paul have similar expression in Phil 3:7-11.

Meekness in Bible

• Meekness is often commended in the bible. You will be surprised to see such an emphasis on this quality. (The word ‘Meek’ is used about 22 times in the bible.)
• It is one of the fruit of Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5:22 – ‘gentleness’)
• It is the character, Jesus himself associated with. Matthew 11:29 – “For I am gentle and humble in heart…”
• It is the mark of disciple of Jesus. (Eph 4:2)
• Christian leaders are to be meek. (2 Timothy 2:25)

Historical Setting:

• Consider the historical setting in Jesus’ time, the multi-cultural society consisted of Jews, Romans and Greeks, who often fought for their supremacy.
  • The Jews took pride in their race, being superior to others.
  • The Romans took pride in their power, the greatest empire in those times.
  • The Greeks took pride in their knowledge, the greatest minds of that age.
• Notice, Jesus did not assert the prideful or the aggressor, but rather the ‘Poor in Spirit’ and the ‘Meek’.

The Promise: Inheritance

• What an amazing promise and reward, God gives to those who are meek! – “They will inherit the earth.”
• There are more than 200 instances of the word ‘inherit’ or its derivatives in old testament.The patriarchs and the prophets looked forward to the ‘Promise land’ as a fulfillment of great blessings.
• Inheritance comes as a legacy and gift.
• The meek will be the heirs and partakers of the Kingdom of God.

The more I study the beatitudes, the more I realize that these characteristics are not something you can get instantly. It is a subtle, gradual change. There are not set rules to achieve them. Only thing you can do is to allow God to completely transform you from within. And it is very difficult to give up control of our life and let God be in driving seat. (I am talking about Christians.)

Prayer:
“Change me from within; change my heart and let me be a person, you want me to be.”

Other Resource: The Beatitudes: Developing Spiritual Character (John Stott Bible Studies)

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Meek

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Persecuted (The link will be added as the lesson is available online.)

More Bible Studies:

• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes – Part 6 of 8
• Beatitudes: Blessed are Poor in Spirit – 8 Part Series
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8
• Blessed are the Merciful | Beatitudes Bible Study | 5 of 8

Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8 is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

Beatitudes

Matthew 5: 3-12

• “Blessed are those who mourn” is the second of 8 beatitudes mentioned in Matthew 5: 3-12, preached by Jesus, in his sermon on the mount. (Read the Introduction and first beatitude “Blessed are Poor in Spirit“.)
• The beatitude seems contradictory, at first, because the “blessedness” literally means the state of being happy or blessed! How can one be happy, when he is mourning or sad!

Who are “Those who mourn”?

• There can be variety of reasons for mourning, it can be due to
  • loss of loved one or job or any other kind
  • Personal sin, mistakes or failures
  • mourning with those who are afflicted or suffering
  • for the ‘Lost’ and for the ‘Kingdom of God to come’
• People react differently do the same event of loosing loved one or job or any other suffering.
  • Some may completely ignore it. They try to escape it by replacing it with worldly pleasures.
  • Some try to escape it by means of alcohol or drugs, when they cannot bear the pain, they just run away from it.
  • And there are few, who turn to God for finding solace, comfort in their time of suffering and pain.

    

Godly Sorrow vs. Worldly Sorrow:

• It is fascinating that bible talks about two kinds of sorrow. 2 Cor 7:10:”Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” We can understand these different sorrows from two very famous events during crucification of Jesus.
  • Peter: When Peter denied Jesus three times, he “wept bitterly”. (Matthew 26:69-75). He was grieving for his failures, but this led him to repentance and towards Jesus.
  • Judas: The very next passage talks about Judas. He also was “seized with remorse”, when he realized his wrongdoing. (Matthew 27:1-10), but instead of repentance, this led him to committing suicide. (literally “death” according to 2 Cor 7:10)
• So, in light of this, any sorrow or mourning which lead up to God for finding the comfort, peace and strength is the “Godly sorrow”, which Jesus is referring to. God will comfort those who turn to Him.

Comfort – Calling Near

• The Greek word for ‘comforted’ is ‘parakaleo’ which means ‘to call to the side of’, ‘to call near’. The comfort which God offers, is not just consoling or soothing, but it is much more than that. When we turn to God in our suffering, God call us to his side, He comfort us and come to our rescue.
• We often complain about God’s silence in our time of need or suffering. But this beatitude (blessedness) depicts very different picture. God is calling us near, ready to comfort us, all we need to do is to respond to Him. This idea is fully realized in the Words of Jesus in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

To summarize, this beatitude, at its core, brings the “Message of Hope” for those who mourn or are hurt. You can try to ignore it, or escape it, but you can only find true comfort and rest in Jesus.

Other Resource: The Sermon on the Mount: The Key to Success in Life

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Beatitudes: Blessed are those Who Mourn

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Persecuted (The link will be added as the lesson is available online.)

More Bible Studies:

• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes – Part 6 of 8
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8
• Beatitudes: Blessed are Poor in Spirit – 8 Part Series
• Blessed are the Merciful | Beatitudes Bible Study | 5 of 8

Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8 is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide

Matthew 5: 3 -12

• Beatitudes are referred to the account of ‘Sermon on the Mount’ preached by Jesus Christ, recorded in Matthew 5: 3-12 in the Bible.
• It is one of the most quoted passage of Bible.
• Similar list of beatitudes is also given in Luke 6:20-23.
• This bible study lesson is an eight part series on the beatitudes. In this part, we will look at the first of the beatitude “Blessed are the Poor in the Spirit”.

Q. What is the meaning of word ‘Beatitude’? And how does it relate to word ‘Blessed’ used in Matthew 5?

• The word ‘Beatitude’ is not found in the English bible. But it is derived from Latin word ‘Beatus’ meaning ‘Happy’ or ‘Blessed’, the meaning of which is very close to original Greek word that Jesus used .
• The Greek word for ‘Blessed’ is ‘Makarioi’ which means ‘happy, supremely blessed, and fortunate’.

Before we get into the beatitudes, let us look at the similarity and differences in the gospel accounts of Matthew 5:3-12 and Luke 6:20-23.

• In Matthew, all the 8 beatitudes are written in third person (‘those’), except the last one.
• On the other hand, in Luke, Beatitudes are in second person (“you”), followed by the list of ‘Woes’ as well. (Luke 6:24-26)
• The places where Jesus preached the sermon are different. (Mat 5:1 – ‘On the Mount’ and Luke 6:17 – ‘On the plain’)
• Bible scholars differs on their views regarding these two accounts, whether they are
  • Different records of the same sermon, or
  • Two different sermons with similar contents
• Peoples often point out to such differences to discredit the authenticity and reliability of gospel records. But these minor differences actually serve as an evidence of the genuineness of these records. [Consider an example of Professor giving homework to his students. If two students have identical, word by word answers, Professor would first suspect ‘copying or cheating’!]
• Apart from these minor differences, there is a remarkable unity and order of thought and substance in the gospels.

The Beatitudes – The Great Paradox

• The Beatitudes are the great contrast to the worldly motion of ‘blessedness’ and ‘happiness’. It is no wonder that it does not make sense and almost seems contradiction to the carnal mind.  “For the message about the cross is nonsense to those who are being destroyed, but it is God’s power to us who are being saved.” (1st Cor 1:18)
• The beatitudes and the Sermon on the Mount also defied the great expectations of an earthly kingdom, which Jews thought Messiah would establish! For how can you establish a worldly kingdom by the Weak and the Meek? How can you be merciful to your enemies? How can you be peacemakers, if you are to overturn a kingdom (Roman Empire)? How can you let others persecute and insult you? It is obvious that Jesus was not talking about earthly kingdom. But he was promising ‘Kingdom of Heaven’. So let us look at the characteristics to inherit this ‘Kingdom of Heaven’.

Beatitude 1 : Poor In Spirit

• ‘Poor in Spirit’ is a quite difficult phrase to understand. The word for ‘poor’ in Greek (’Ptochos‘) literally means having nothing, reduced to begging, like a beggar, totally broke. (Luke 6:20 uses only ‘poor’ in his version of sermon!)
• While monetary poverty can also be inferred from these verses, what Jesus really meant was spiritual poverty.
• You can be really poor and yet be arrogant and prideful, or you can be rich and still be poor in the spirit. (King David in Old Testament is great example of this, in spite of being King, he had a humble and contrite heart.)
• ‘Spiritual poor’ is exactly what it sounds like. It is a state when you realize that you have nothing and need constant help.
• We have to be careful here not to compare outward modesty with this characteristics. I strongly believe that it is a picture of a man with humble and broken heart who constantly need help from God for his very existence.
• This image is a stark contrast to the self-contained, self-sufficient spirit which world long for. But in the Kingdom of Heaven, this is the most important qualification, you can have.
• Isaiah 66:1-2: “Thus says the LORD, “Heaven is My throne and the earth is My footstool. Where then is a house you could build for Me? And where is a place that I may rest? “For My hand made all these things, Thus all these things came into being,” declares the LORD. “But to this one I will look, To him who is humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My word.”
• Isaiah 57:15: “For thus says the high and exalted One Who lives forever, whose name is Holy, “I dwell on a high and holy place, And also with the contrite and lowly of spirit In order to revive the spirit of the lowly And to revive the heart of the contrite.”
• Psalms 51 is a great example of a man who is craving for God’s spirit. (This Psalm is King David’s confession and repentance after he committed adultery with Bathsheba.)
  • Ps 51:10 : “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
  • Ps 51:12 : “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit.”
  • Ps 51:17 : “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; A broken and a contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.”
• The opposite of ‘Poor in Spirit’ is ‘proud in spirit’. The Pride of life is one of the three roots of sin and independence from God. (1 John 2:16)
• Poverty of spirit is the root of all virtues. It is the state of heart; it is how you view yourself in light of God. In this regard, this first beatitude is the root from which all other beatitudes grows.

The Promise: Kingdom of Heaven

• ‘Kingdom of Heaven’ is a peculiar title only found in the gospel of Matthew. This term is used interchangeably with ‘Kingdom of God’ in other gospels. Kingdom of Heaven is the messianic kingdom promised in old testament, to be established by Messiah. (Daniel 2:44) Matthew represents Jesus as the savior and king prophesied in old testament.
• Kingdom of God (Heaven) is in twofold:
  • Already Here: Luke 17:20-21: “Once, having been asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you.”
  • Yet to Come: Kingdom of Heaven will be fully realized and established when Christ will come as a King and Ruler over all earth. (Daniel 7: 13,14,27)
• What a blessed hope and promise, Jesus offers to those who are poor in the spirit. “Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.”

Practical Applications:

• How do you view yourself in light of this beatitude?
• How do you view others?
• Do your attitudes reflect your beliefs?

Other Resource: The Message of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7 : Christian Counter-Culture)

Part 1: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Persecuted (The link will be added as the lesson is available online.)

More Bible Studies:

• Beatitudes: Meaning and List
• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8
• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes – Part 6 of 8
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8

Beatitudes: Blessed are Poor in Spirit – 8 Part Series is a post from: Bible Study Lessons | Christian Bible Studies | Inductive Bible Study Guide