Pastor Jonathan shares a message on mourning.

Pastor Bob shares a message in our new series, Blessings That Change the World. We are diving into the Beatitudes and focusing on Matthew 5:3 this week.

THE BLESSING NOBODY WANTS

Jesus opens the Sermon on the Mount with an unexpected word: blessing.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:3)

In this message, we explore how blessing is not a reward for the strong, but grace for those who know they need it. "Poor in spirit" is not low self-esteem or modesty, but the honest posture of being empty-handed and dependent on mercy.

• Blessing starts with what God gives, not what we achieve.
• Your need does not disqualify you. It is where grace meets you.
• Honesty opens what pretending cannot.
• The kingdom begins lower than we think, and it belongs now to the poor in spirit.
• Remembering your own poverty makes you gentle with others.

1. Where are you most tempted to hide your need instead of bringing it honestly before God?
2. Have you been treating blessing like a reward rather than a gift?

Key ideasReflection questions

Pastor Bob shares a message on the hope of Easter Sunday.

Pastor Bob shares a message on healing for Good Friday.

Pastor John Preaches on Blessings

Pastor Bob shares a message in our series, Blessed to be a Blessing.

Pastor Bob preaching on passing the Blessing on

Pastor Steven shares a message in our series, Blessed to be a Blessing.

In Genesis 19 we see a stark picture of God bringing divine judgment on two different ancient cities. An entire community wiped out from fire from heaven. And while the sins of Sodom and Gomorrah are well known and many, most well reasoned people find themselves asking, was this necessary? How do we understand stories in Scripture where God seemingly brings epic levels of violence? Is God one of love and grace or justice?

Pastor John Iacucci preaches on the series Blessed to be a Blessing