Certain portions of Scripture seem to be etched more deeply into our minds than others. Psalm 23 is definitely one of these, as are I Corinthians 13 and Hebrews 11. The Sermon on the Mount is another. This detailed description of what the subjects of the "Kingdom of God" should become, is closer to being Christianity's manifesto than any other single portion of the Bible. It is the 'Constitution of God's Kingdom'. In this passage, the King (Jesus) summarises the character and conduct expected of His subjects. It was intended to be a system of laws and principles which were to govern the Kingdom's citizens during Christ's reign. It was meant for all - past, present and future - who acknowledge Christ as King. When Christ was on earth, it had direct application to His disciples. But now, while our Lord reigns in heaven, it applies to all who crown Him King in their hearts. The Beatitudes are as important to the Christ's followers as the Law was to Moses' followers. But notice, the Beatitudes were directed toward a change of 'attitude', whereas the Ten Commandments were directed toward a change of 'practice'. The one tells you what you must 'do' or 'not do' ("You shall..." "You shall not…"), and the other tells you what you are to 'become' ("Blessed are..."). By helping to change our attitudes, Jesus knew that the Sermon on the Mount could effect what we do (change our code of practice). Therefore, when our attitudes are right - so too are our practices!