Happy Christianity!
What makes a Christian happy in life? When you enter the Kingdom of God, the Kingdom of God enters you—spiritual growth. Matthew 5:1-12 presents eight steps that lead to a
fulfilled life. First, you need to see your spiritual poverty—“blessed are the poor in spirit” (v. 3) = bankrupt spiritually. This is the start of the journey: salvation. Apart from God’s grace, you have no spiritual value. Second, you need to grieve over sin—“those who mourn.” (v. 4) Sin sent Jesus Christ to the cross; consideration of your sin should produce brokenness within for failing the Lord. Third, you need to exercise self-control—“the meek.” (v. 5) Meekness is not weakness; it is Spirit-powered self-control. Fourth, you need to yearn for spiritual food—“those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.” (v. 6) This is a desire to be pleasing to the Lord so intense it produces a drive like satisfying physical hunger and thirst. Satisfaction is only in gaining righteousness. Fifth, you need to be kind—“the merciful.” (v. 7) Identification with Jesus Christ: the merciful will receive mercy, and the opposite is also true. “Judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy.” (James 2:13) Sixth, you need to have a single focus—“the pure in heart” (v. 8) = cleansed from sin. “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:8-9) Seventh, you need to be a peacemaker—“the peacemakers.” (v. 9) Not peace in the world, but helping sinners be reconciled to God. True peace is found in Christ alone; and Jesus died for your enemies as well. Eighth, you need to experience wrong for right reason—“those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake.” (v. 10) = it must be undeserved. “All who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12)
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.