The Old Testament supplies the necessary background against which to interpret this beatitude. At first to be "poor" meant to be in literal, material need. But gradually, because the needy had no refuge but God, "poverty" came to have spiritual overtones. What do you think it means to be "poor in spirit"?
Being "poor in spirit" is to acknowledge that you have a need for help. Those of us who have bent their knee at the cross know that they have need for spiritual help and that help comes from God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Those on earth who believe that they can 'do it themselves' also believe that they are stronger psychologically and spiritually than those who need the crutch of religion. I know this because I was there. Indeed, in many ways I feel weaker and smaller since acknowledging that Jesus is my Lord and saviour than I did when I 'did it by myself'. The reason for this however, is that now I know where I am in the world. Before I was rich in spirit, and thought that I was the master of my own destiny, that I was my own boss. Now I realise that I'm poor in spirit and in need of God.
Hello, I wish to use this Blog to discuss Christian bible studies. I hope people will respect my views, but accept and look forward to healthy (respectful) debate. As you read this you will find links to bible study pages. The first study I'm doing is "The Beatitudes", which is the "Sermon on the Mount" - Jesus' most famous sermon. Enjoy. Additionally, remember that the questions are in reverse order, as the Blog posts in reverse date order.
No comments:
Post a Comment