The Beatitudes: Wait, Blessed are the Who?

The Discomforting Gospel pt. III

Part I established that the ideal of the early church — namely, their radical generosity and commitment toward each other — is beautiful to think about but discomforting when applying. Part II highlighted the confronting nature of our faith and how it calls us to reflect, humble ourselves, and change (i.e., to repent).

Building off of the above, I would like to turn our attention to Jesus’ longest discourse: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7). It begins with what we call the “beatitudes” or pronouncements of blessing. At first glance, Jesus’ declarations of who is blessed sounds very “spiritual.” It makes sense, therefore, that many “spiritual interpretations” have been ascribed to them as well.

For example, the sermon begins with: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 5:2, ESV). I have heard — on many occasions — that this beatitude was directed toward those who realize their depravity and need for Christ. In other words, the spiritually bankrupt.

This tendency continues with the second beatitude (“Blessed are those who mourn”) as well. Some say it refers to those who mourn over their own sin. Others claim that the beatitude describes how the comfort of God is better than not suffering at all.

A more literal reading

But what if the Beatitudes were meant to be read more literally?

If so, they would be talking about those who were in a state of despair and those who lost loved ones. Does that make any sense at all? It certainly does if we compare it with Luke’s Gospel (Luke 6:20–23). That version simply begins with “Blessed are the poor” — without any additional descriptors.

Furthermore, I would bet that the early church — communities who were persecuted for their faith— would have been plenty encouraged by Jesus’ words. Just imagine escaping a violent persecution or watching an apostle get executed (c.f., Acts 12:1–3). Wouldn’t you be faint of heart? Wouldn’t you be grieving the loss of loved ones? Wouldn’t you be tempted to stop living a righteous or merciful life in lieu of an easier life?

And then you read Jesus’ words…

Your heart is warmed and your strength is renewed because you are reminded that God sees you and promises a better day in his kingdom.

Discomfort

Jesus is not blessing devout Christians here. Rather, he is fulfilling Isaiah 61 and bringing good news to the oppressed, brokenhearted, captives, and prisoners. And if the idea that the Beatitudes were directed at the suffering discomforts us, we must look deep within our hearts and ask why.

Then, perhaps, we will avoid the plight of the pharisees.