[bajj]

I had always thought of the Beatitudes as describing different types of people and different personalities. I heard a lesson in college that has kind of stuck with me. I'm not saying this is the correct line of thinking, but I found it fascinating (I'm not saying it's wrong, either).

The teacher said the Beatitudes describes a Christian. If you look in Matt 5:3-5, those would be the beginning stage of being a Christian.

Vs 6 is what to learn.

Vs7-9 are waht we gain as Christianity grows and vs 10 is a mature Christian.

Those were his thoughts and I find it interesting.

Now I wonder, why is vs 11 generally not thought of in teh Beatitudes? Is it because it changes from they to you?

[mrsred]

After rereading verses 5 - 12, I think that verse 11 is more an elaboration of verse 10; an explanation of how it ties in with our love of Christ. Verse 10 says blessed are those who are prersecuted because of righteousness, for thiers is the kingdom of heaven. Verse 11 speaks of blessing those that are "insulted and persecuted...because of Me". This goes beyond being persecuted for righteousness, this tells us there will be times when we will be insulted, persecuted and have evil spoken against us for belief in Jesus Himself. and verse 12 reminds us of our reward.

Kathy, my amplified Bible says: Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous -- with life-joy and satisfaction in God's favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the poor in spirit......

The Beatitudes, like most of the Bible are much easier to read, and much "prettier prose" in the tradition versions of the Bible, but the amplified versions really bring out the meaning behind the words. I tend to read both versions while studying.

[bajj]

I'm really sorry you guys, but I have a lot going on right now and will not be able to get back to this anytime soon. If someone wants to take over, then that's great!

[kakuehl]

We aren't making much progress are we?

I will contribute when I can, but I don't think I can take it over right now.

[lovemy2boys]

I agree, but really don't want to let this go!!!!

How about we decide on, like, springtime to try to get back into it?

Plus, maybe (every so often) we can try to post something really meaningful that may have sparked in our minds either at church, during scripture study, or whenever!!!