What Does It Mean To Be a Follower of Jesus?

Our message last week was titled "What Does It Mean To Be a Follower of Jesus?" 

This was based on the Beatitudes given by Jesus in Matthew 5:1-6:

And seeing the multitudes, He went up on a mountain, and when He was seated His disciples came to Him.   Then He opened His mouth and taught them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn,
For they shall be comforted.
 Blessed are the meek,
For they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

 

Jesus declared that people who exhibit particular characteristics are divinely blessed. Not that people should strive to attain these characteristics so they could earn the right to tap into God's blessings.  But that these characteristics identify people who by God's grace are citizens of the kingdom of heaven. This does not imply they are perfect, but indicates a following of the Lord and to actively cultivate those characteristics He planted in us. 

 

The Beatitudes are eight qualities or characteristics that define one group - those following the Lord.  The first four reflect inner attitudes:

 

Poor in Spirit:  This is the opposite of arrogance and self sufficiency.  When we realize how vast our spiritual need is and we have nothing to offer God, we are ready to repent and receive His gracious gift of salvation.  Poverty in spirit is the prelude to riches of salvation. Being poor in spirit opens the door to God's grace . 

 

Those Who Mourn:  This occurs when we understand our sinful condition and are truly sorry for our sinful state.  We mourn when we not just know, but repent.  When we're sorry enough about our sin to quit sinning.

 

Meek:  Meekness is not weakness.  This attitude of gentleness puts the focus on others rather than self.  This is not our natural tendency and can be a challenge.  Gentleness stems from an awareness of our own failures and limitations and allows us to deal kindly with others. 

 

Hunger and Thirst For Righteousness:  This is the inner desire to make right choices, say right words and do right actions which is part of God's work in us to make us more like Him.  As we walk faithfully with Him, He instills in us more purpose and power to please Him. 

 

The Beatitudes are more than a passage of Scripture to memorize.  They are qualities to seek after and develop in our Christian walk which sets us apart and identifies us with Christ.