Revised Common Lectionary (Complementary)
In this chapter and the two next following is contained the most excellent and loving sermon of Christ in the Mount, which sermon is the very key that opens the understanding into the law. In this fifth chapter especially, he preaches of the 8 beatitudes, or blessings; of manslaughter, wrath, and anger; of adultery, of swearing, of suffering wrong; and of love, even toward a person’s enemies.
5 When Jesus saw the crowds of people, he went up into a mountain. And when he was seated, his disciples came to him. 2 And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:
3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5 Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled.
7 Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.
10 Blessed are those who suffer persecution for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when men revile you, and persecute you, and falsely say all manner of evil things against you for my sake. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for great is your reward in heaven. For in the same way they persecuted the prophets that were before your days.
Copyright © 2016 by Ruth Magnusson (Davis). Includes emendations to February 2022. All rights reserved.