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Jesus begins his teaching with what have long been called the beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12). These statements of ‘blessing’ are some of the most comforting words in all of Scripture, but there is much confusion about what they mean. Is Jesus providing entrance requirements for the kingdom of God? Is he telling us about God’s favourite people? In this lecture, Phillip Johnston makes the case that Jesus stands on the mountain as a philosopher casting his vision for true human flourishing. The beatitudes are Christ’s invitation to the good life.

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