Introduction: is it “Kingdom of Heaven” or “REIGN of GOD” or “A peace that surpasses understanding?”
Isaiah explains Seven characteristics of the Reign of God |
Which correspond to seven BEATITUDES |
GIFT OF THE SPIRIT IMPLIED |
CORRESPONDING VISABLE VIRTUES ARE. . . |
Which can be attained through the petitions of THE LORD’S PRAYER |
CAPITAL SIN/ANTI-BEATITUDE |
God’s presence as Spirit or Light
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Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven | Fear of the Lord | Temperance | Hallowed be thy name | Pride |
Deliverance or salvation
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Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted | Knowledge | Hope | Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven | Envy |
Peace
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Blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth | Piety | Justice | Thy kingdom come | Anger |
Healing
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Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied | Fortitude | Courage | Give us this day our daily bread | Sloth |
Joy
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Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy | Counsel | Prudence | And forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us | Greed |
Repentance and return to God . . . or Metanoia
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Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God | Understanding | Faith | And lead us not into temptation | Lust |
Righteousness or Justice
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Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God | Wisdom | Charity | But deliver us from evil | Gluttony |
When you grow beyond where you expected, so you have grown beyond the expectations of others and they may not like it. | Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven | Summary of Matthew 5 |