What is the meaning of Matthew 5:4? Blessed • In Scripture, “blessed” speaks of the settled favor of God, not a fleeting emotion. Jesus is announcing who already enjoys God’s approving smile (Psalm 1:1; James 1:12). • This blessing is rooted in a kingdom reality (Matthew 5:3), meaning it is as sure and enduring as the King Himself. • The word points us to gratitude and contentment flowing from God’s grace, rather than circumstances. are those who mourn • Jesus honors a kind of mourning that turns the heart toward God. It includes: – Grief over personal sin that offends a holy God (Psalm 51:17; 2 Corinthians 7:10). – Sorrow over the brokenness of the world—its injustice, suffering, and rebellion (Romans 8:22-23; Ezekiel 9:4). – Longing for what has been lost through death and pain, bringing that ache to the Father (John 11:35-36). • This is not despair but a humble honesty before the Lord, trusting that He hears and cares (Psalm 34:18). for they will be comforted • Comfort is both present and future. – Present: the Holy Spirit—called “the Helper” or “Comforter”—comes alongside believers now (John 14:16-18). – Ongoing: God applies His promises, replacing ashes with beauty and sorrow with the oil of joy (Isaiah 61:1-3). – Future: every tear will be wiped away when God makes all things new (Revelation 21:4). • The comfort Jesus promises is personal, powerful, and permanent, springing from His own victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). • Therefore, mourning in faith is never wasted; it becomes the avenue through which God’s mercy is freshly experienced (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17). summary Jesus declares that those who honestly grieve—over sin, suffering, and loss—stand under God’s blessing. Their tears invite divine consolation now through the Spirit and ultimately in the coming kingdom where sorrow is banished forever. Mourning that leans on Christ will always be met by His unfailing comfort. |
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