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The Sermon on the Mount

Matthew 5 - 7

Chapter 5

Blessed are those who deeply desire justice and righteousness, for they will be satisfied.

What does this mean?

As a deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for you, O God. ~ Psalm 42:1

Context and Interpretation

1. Context in the Sermon on the Mount:
   • The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) is a collection of Jesus’ teachings that outline the values and principles of the Kingdom of Heaven. The Beatitudes, which open the sermon, describe the attitudes and qualities that are blessed by God.
2. Immediate Context:
   • This Beatitude follows those on being "poor in spirit," "mourning," and "meekness," building on the theme of inner righteousness and the attitudes of the heart that align with God's will.

Explanation of the Passage

1. "Blessed are those who deeply desire justice and righteousness":
   • The phrase "hunger and thirst" indicates a profound and intense longing. Just as hunger and thirst are basic human needs that drive people to seek food and water, this Beatitude speaks of a deep, spiritual craving for justice and righteousness.
   • Justice and Righteousness:
     • Righteousness: In the biblical context, righteousness involves living in a way that is right and pleasing to God. It encompasses personal holiness, ethical behavior, and right relationships with others.
     • Justice: Justice in the Bible often refers to ensuring fairness and equity, particularly for the marginalized and oppressed. It involves social and communal aspects of righteousness, where God's standards of right are upheld in society.
2. "For they will be satisfied":
   • The promise of satisfaction means that those who earnestly seek justice and righteousness will be fulfilled. This fulfillment can be understood in several ways:
     • Spiritual Fulfillment: Those who seek God’s righteousness will find satisfaction in their relationship with Him and in the peace that comes from living according to His will.
     • Eschatological Fulfillment: Ultimately, full satisfaction will be realized in God's kingdom, where perfect justice and righteousness will prevail. Revelation 21:3-4 speaks of a time when God will dwell with His people, and all wrongs will be made right.
     • Present Fulfillment: Even in the present life, those who pursue righteousness can experience a measure of satisfaction through seeing God’s justice enacted and through personal growth in holiness.

Biblical Principles

• Pursuit of Righteousness:
  • This Beatitude emphasizes the importance of actively seeking to live in accordance with God's standards. It calls for a deep desire to do what is right and to cultivate personal and communal righteousness.
• Commitment to Justice:
  • It underscores the importance of justice, particularly for those who are vulnerable and oppressed. Biblical justice involves advocacy, fairness, and the rectification of wrongs.
• Promise of Fulfillment:
  • The assurance of being satisfied highlights God's faithfulness in fulfilling the desires of those who seek His righteousness and justice. This satisfaction is both a present reality and a future hope.

Application

• Personal Righteousness: Believers are encouraged to cultivate a deep longing for personal holiness and ethical living. This involves studying God’s Word, praying for guidance, and aligning one's actions with God’s will.
• Social Justice: This Beatitude calls believers to actively engage in promoting justice in society. This can involve advocacy, helping the oppressed, and working towards systems and structures that reflect God's righteousness.
• Trust in God’s Promise: Believers can find encouragement in the promise that their longing for righteousness and justice will be fulfilled. This trust motivates ongoing pursuit and perseverance.

Challenges and Encouragement

• Overcoming Apathy: One challenge is overcoming apathy or complacency. This Beatitude calls for an active and passionate pursuit of righteousness and justice, which requires dedication and effort.
• Balancing Personal and Social Righteousness: Balancing the pursuit of personal holiness with the commitment to social justice can be challenging. Both aspects are essential and complementary in living out the values of the Kingdom of Heaven.