We're beginning a new series of looking in-depth at Jesus' own sermon on what it means to follow him. In this lesson we look at "the Beatitudes" which are 8 easy to remember summaries of his teaching. We normally think of the term "blessed" religiously when we think of "blessed are the poor in spirit," however delving into a study of the language of the Gospel, the word is better rendered "Happy." Or maybe, it could even be read "envy?" What does Jesus mean when he says "envy them that mourn?!"
I'm heavily indebted to R.T. France's commentary on this one, and wish to thank the author for the inspiration.