The Beatitudes in Relation to Christlikeness

The Sermon on the Mount would certainly be one of the most familiar teachings of Jesus. It is often referred to in various literary writings and political speeches, and those who embrace religions other than Christianity frequently quote it. I would even assume that that when an unbeliever decides to read his Bible, he probably turns to Matthew's Gospel, and before too long he is reading the Sermon on the Mount. The Sermon on the Mount opens with the “beatitudes” which give the key to understanding the sermon. In previous sessions we examined all eight beatitudes and viewed them as the basis for understanding the subsequent Sermon on the Mount.

Tonight we shall view these beatitudes as descriptors of the very likeness of Jesus Christ Himself. They describe the necessary qualities required of all who are members of the Kingdom of God. However, attaining these qualities does not admit one into the Kingdom, for that is done only by God granting salvation. Once God saves and redeems the sinner, these qualities are developed in conforming him into the likeness of Jesus Christ. These qualities are not the cause of salvation but the evidence of salvation once accomplished.
A course notebook for this series is being developed and will be available at a nominal charge, on request.