Blessed Purity

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 introduced the Sermon, and opened the first four beatitudes regarding the poor in spirit, those who mourn, those who are meek, and those who hunger for righteousness. These beatitudes are foundational to understanding the remaining beatitudes as well as the Sermon on the Mount. The first four beatitudes focus on God. The fifth one turns our focus from God to our own being merciful, to other people as an immediate consequence of the truths of the first four.
Tonight we will examines the sixth beatitude: “Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God.” We shall examine the meaning of “heart,” of “purity” and of “seeing God.” The work in attaining “purity” is of vital importance by reason of what purity is not, as well as for what it is. The work of God, in His grace, produces purity and distinguishes Christianity from all other religions and religious systems of thought.

A course notebook for this series is available at a nominal charge, on request.