This Wednesday, May 16, we will continue with our study of the "sermon on the mount." Last week we left off our discussion at the end of Matthew 5:6, so this Wednesday we will begin our study with Matthew 5:7. Here are some initial thoughts/observations/comments.
1. Matthew 5:7 says, "blessed are the merciful..." What does "merciful" mean? What is the difference between being "gracious" and "merciful?"
2. Matthew 5:8 says, "blessed are the pure in heart..." We see and read "heart" all the time in Scripture yet I wonder how many of us have stopped and pondered over what is meant by this word. Does it mean ones feelings, ones emotions, ones actual physical heart, or ones whole inner state, etc?
3. Matthew 5:8 says, "blessed are the peacemakers..." Notice it does not say, "blessed are the peaceful..." This verse, and several others in the "sermon on the mount," have been used to support the doctrine of pacifism. What are your thoughts regarding "pacifism" and using this verse in its defense?
Andrew
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