Jeff and Lindsey Kumpula | The Shepherd’s Voice April/May 2024 - Home and Family Article –
“Jesus taught them, saying, blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” This passage is the opening of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. In this special sermon He teaches His disciples many things about God’s kingdom of heaven.
What does it mean to be poor in spirit? Martin Luther tells us that within the flock of believers, there are no learned, no rich, and no mighty ones in spirit. Such people cannot accept the gospel. Jesus speaks later in this sermon that we cannot serve two masters: for either we will hate the one and love the other; or else we will be devoted to one, and despise the other (Matt. 6:24). God’s children are poor servants who wish to serve and hear the gospel.
Poor in spirit describes how weak and faulty we are. We often come up short when we endeavor to please God and must continually turn to the gospel message. We can trust in this message. We desire to be at the gatherings of the believers, where we can hear that our sins are forgiven.
Jesus knows His people and reminds us that the kingdom of heaven is a good place. Here we can lay aside all our sins, doubts and fears and travel freely in God’s grace. When we humble ourselves and accept God’s will, we can be encouraged that God will keep us in His care and that a heavenly treasure awaits us.
Things to visit about:
What does it mean to be poor in spirit? Who is rich in spirit?
Why do believers want to serve each other?
What are some ways that you can serve other believers?
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