Jesus Preaching on the Mount, Post by QuineSeven Beatitude Proverbs -- OverviewIn general, the Beatitude Proverbs convey a style of living bathed in eager expectancy. First, the person rightly related to the King is repeatedly described as “blessed.” Many correctly interpret the word “blessed” as “happy.” Jesus can give to His disciples a life of happiness and joy, even while living in a fallen world. This “blessed life” is found through obedience to His words.
Although these proverbial beatitudes are not stated as commands, it is clear that Jesus expects those who claim to follow Him to live as poor in spirit, thirsting for righteousness, and so on. Following Christ’s instruction is an explanation—one who obeys Him is happy because of present, and especially future kingdom benefits. All seven of these keys to a happy life are rooted in this future blessing. Toussaint suggests, ”Those who are to inherit the kingdom are called blessed now because all these things shall be theirs.”
Being blessed also refers to the countenance of the individual: one who is at peace with God, his neighbor, and himself. The disciple has an abiding sense of peace “because” he is informed of several promises: he will inherit the Kingdom of Heaven (5:3), expects to be comforted (5:4), looks forward to a certain future on earth (5:5), anticipates the satisfaction of justice and righteousness (5:6); awaits the granting of mercy (5:7), knows he will reside with God as His child (5:8), and will be greatly rewarded in heaven (5:11-12). Walvoord reviews the expectant life, writing, “The Beatitudes pronounce those blessed, or happy, who fulfill these six standards of the kingdom in character and experience.” The disciple can be content in this life and live therefore as salt and light (5:13-16) knowing this fulfilling future lies ahead.
