Matthew 06
Matthew 5:1-3:
And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Audience
· “Lost sheep of the house of Israel” Matthew 15:24, 10:5-6
· In this moment, He was not speaking openly to the multitudes, but to His disciples only. See verse 1
· Jesus is addressing His personal followers; earthly ministry followers. Kingdom “at hand” Matthew 3:1-2, 4:17, 10:7
· This information is not entrusted or spoken of for the purpose of direct application for the Body of Christ, which is not established until the “mystery” is revealed. Ephesians 3:1-11, Colossians 1:24-22
· The Beatitudes are the characteristics of those who will enter into the earthly kingdom as heirs of the promises given to Israel’s fathers.
Poor in Spirit
· Pride, Arrogance, and Self-Righteousness are not acceptable for kingdom inhabitants.
· Think about Jesus’ address to Pharisees, Rich Young Ruler, and even Pilate; humility before the Messiah is the only way to be a kingdom recipient.
· Sinners in the dispensation of grace are not asked to be anything to inherit a position in the body of Christ, but are instructed to only trust in Christ, who died for our sins. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4
· There is a distinct difference between God’s operation with Israel in a Kingdom vs. His operation with all men in His own Body