Jesus describes you, Christian friend, as blessed are the merciful and as receiving mercy. The Greek word translated here as merciful is only found here and in Hebrews 2:17, where Christ is described as "a merciful and faithful high priest". In the context this means actively compassionate. In all his life, he was merciful to outcasts. To some degree if you belong to Jesus, you should show something of his compassion.

What are you ashamed of? Perhaps you have felt ashamed of the gospel. Understand why the world around causes you to and then remember that the gospel of Christ is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth. Romans 1:16 is key verse to the theme of this epistle. God saves, and does so with his gospel. All of grace through faith alone. Christ finished the work.

As we continue to look at these blessings, we come to Mat 5:5 and look at meekness. Many think meekness means weakness. Well, if that is your understanding, it is not what the Lord Jesus Christ meant. Let me remind you that he described himself as meek and lowly in heart, but he was never weak.

This sermon was addressed to the disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. It has a double purpose: to show what a true christian is; and secondly, how he should live. In fact most of the New Testament is for Christians. Many quote from the sermon on the mount but fail to realise this is only for those who have trusted in the Lord Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of their sins. This behaviour is commendable in anyone. The fact is though that we do not live our lives like this. Jesus died because we do the wrong things in our lives. We do not love God with our whole being nor do we love our neighbour as ourselves. No one can commend himself before God and say that he tried very hard. It is essential that you trust in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Temptation, the Lord was tempted as we are, yet without sin. We are led astray by our own desires. We need to pray that we be kept from temptation.