Matthew 5:3
The Olivet Discourse is telling what the Kingdom is like
Blessed is not about being happy. It is the state of being approved of by God
1. The Characteristics – Poor In Spirit
. A. What Does This Mean? Luke 6:20 – Spiritual poverty
. . Psalm 34:18, 86:1, Isaiah 64:6, Philippians 3:4-7, Revelation 1:12-16, Matthew 5:20, 48
. B. Why Is This The First Beatitude? – The fundamental character, the key to all that follows
. . James 4:6
. C. What are The Obstacles To It? – Pride
. . Luke 18:10-14, Revelation 3:15-17
. D. How Is This Cultivated?
. . 1. Think about your lost condition
. . 2. Study the Character of God
. . 3. Never get over God’s goodness in salvation
. . 4. Pray for God’s working in your life
2. The Consequence – Possession of the Kingdom of Heaven
. . 5:4-10