The sermon on the mount is probably one of the best known and most recognisable teachings of Jesus. It has captured the hearts and imagination of believers over many centuries. It has inspired writings and has shaped western culture. Its influence and significance can not be over stated.As “door keeper” to this great body of teaching we find, what is commonly know as “The Beatitudes”. Sinclair Furgeson says that “The sermon on the mount does not begin with what we are to do as Christians. In a sense it doesn’t even begin with telling us what we are to be as Christians. It begins by telling us the blessedness of what we are as Christians.” In the Christian life being is the foundation for doing. Not the other way around. The beatitudes therefore sets the tone, orientates the heart and primes the mind for the profound truths to follow.

The Beatitudes have the following unique features:

•⁠ ⁠They reflect the upside down nature of the values of the kingdom of Heaven

•⁠ ⁠The are completely counter cultural. The beatitudes commend values and conditions that the world despises. Even during the time of Jesus.

•⁠ ⁠They assume hostility and persecution. Because of its contrary values they bring us into a world that is hostile.

•⁠ ⁠They describe the blessed, happy, favoured and fortunate condition that all who follow Jesus find themselves in.

•⁠ ⁠They therefore do not refer to 8 different kinds of people but rather reflect on the state of all believers.