This episode presents The Sermon on the Mount from the 5th chapter of the book of Matthew. The main theme in the Sermon on the Mount is true righteousness. The religious leaders had an artificial, external righteousness based on law. But the righteousness that Jesus described as a true and vital righteousness that begins internally, in the heart. The Pharisees were concerned about the minute details of conduct, but they were neglecting the major matter of character. Conduct flows out of character.
To be "poor" or "poor in spirit" means to be humble, and to have a correct estimate of oneself (Rom. 12:3). It does not mean to be poor-spirited and have no backbone at all. It is honesty with ourselves: We know ourselves, accept ourselves, and try to be ourselves to the glory of God.
We mourn over sin and despise it. We see sin the way God sees it and seek to treat it the way God does. Those who cover sin or defend sin certainly have the wrong attitude.
Take a listen to the episode then let me know what you think.
Blessings,
Elder Barbara
FL/Wiersbe
