Matthew 5: 10-12 - “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for their is the Kingdom of Heaven.”

Meaning of Word ‘Persecuted’:

To be pursued, follow after, suffer, chase after, to run after with hostile intent, to hunt. Persecution and all the variations of this word are used in the bible approx. 76 times. The word has a strong meaning of being followed or chased after. It is like a continuous, ruthless chase to hunt down the prey!

Bible Verses about Approach to Persecution:

• 1 Peter 3:13-14 – “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed.”
• 1 Peter 4:12-14,16,19 – “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you…However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name….So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”
• Phil 3:10-11 – “I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead.”
• Romans 8:18 – “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Beatitudes: Great Paradox:

• This last beatitude is the most striking and contradictory of all the beatitudes. For how can you rejoice or be blessed, when you are going through insult, persecution, suffering, even death for doing good or right? Yet, Jesus very clearly proclaims ‘blessedness’ for those who are being persecuted for the sake of righteousness. He also mentions similar message in Matthew 10:16-28.
• For the first century Christians, persecution was a norm rather than an exception.
• Peter and Paul, the first apostles to Jews and gentiles, also reiterate and often desire for sharing and participating in suffering with/for Christ. (check out bible references below)
• It should be noted that it is not in the suffering or pain, we rejoice, but it is in the hope of God’s glory to be revealed. (There are some who like to be sad, who somehow enjoys in their pain!)
• We, Christians however, rejoice in their suffering for the righteousness, due to the fact that we participate in suffering of Christ, that we bear his name, and that we will be overjoyed when Christ’ glory will be revealed in us. It is our privilege to suffer with Christ.
• It is not the suffering, but the Cause that makes a Martyr.
• People may say that this is absolutely absurd. yet, we all believe in a idea of pain and suffering for future joy. A good example of this is a ‘child-birth’. Mother goes through immense pain and struggle, with pain intensifies as the time comes nearer. For her, the present pain is not worth comparing with the joy she will experience in her child. Nobody finds it strange, in fact, women long and desire motherhood. Her focus is not on the suffering, but the joy that her child will bring.
• We find it difficult to grasp rejoicing in suffering because we have not seen the complete picture. Even among many Christians, there is a growing tendency to focus on earthly blessings. (It is not to say that one should not desire good in this life.) But Jesus (and first disciples) always focused on future hope and glory.
• There are parts of the world, where people are being persecuted for Christ. For them, following Christ means suffering, rejection and even death. They are blessed or privileged to share in suffering with Christ.
• We may not go through physical persecution or suffering, but we all feel being constantly chased after by the enemy of Christ. When we pursue righteousness, we may find being constantly running or fleeing from the spiritual forces, who are after us to knock us down.

The Promise: Blessed Hope:

However, this is not the end. Jesus offers those who are persecuted for his name, the inheritance in the Kingdom of Heaven.  At present, we don’t see it, yet we believe in it and we rejoice in that hope and future. (Romans 8:24) Paul rightly say that our present sufferings are not even worth comparing with the glory that will be manifested when Christ will return.

This ends the eight part bible study series on the beatitudes. I hope that you would have enjoyed this series as much as I have and pray that it would bring new and fresh perspective in your personal walk with Christ. In the end, I would like to finish with this beautiful, timeless hymn from Fanny Crosby, which truly captures the joy, hope and assurance of Kingdom of God.

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
O what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
born of his Spirit, washed in his blood.

Perfect submission, all is at rest;
I in my Savior am happy and blest,
watching and waiting, looking above,
filled with his goodness, lost in his love.

This is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long;
this is my story, this is my song,
praising my Savior all the day long.

Check out,

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are those who are Persecuted because of righteousness
More Bible Studies:

• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 6 of 8
• Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 4 of 8
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8
• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Blessed are the Merciful | Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 5 of 8

Inductive Bible Study method is one of the most effective bible study methods for personal  bible study, quiet time or group bible studies. This guide presents three basic steps of Inductive bible studies, Observation, Interpretation and Application. It will walk you through each step of inductive bible studies in details.

By definition, inductive logic or induction means ‘the type of reasoning which involves moving from a set of specific facts to a general conclusion’. (Wikipedia) Inductive bible study method provides a bible-based tool to study bible by observing the facts, investigating the motives and reasons behind it and thus offering life applications relevant to individual’s life experiences. (Also check out: Manuscript Bible Study Method)

What You Need:

• Bible, Notebook, and Time!
• Other resources: Bible commentary, Bible dictionary, study guide etc.

How to Start:

• Spare about 20-30 minutes for the bible study, more if possible.
• Start with Prayer and ask God for his guidance specifically for the study time.
• Select a bible passage. It is good to select a book of bible and study it continuously. However, it all depends upon your own preference. In any case, select a bible passage, which consists of 10-15 verses (Usually one or two paragraphs which may cover the story, topic or event). Selecting a very long passage or whole chapter of bible may not be the best approach, as you won’t be able focus on one particular event or aspect of the chapter.
• Read the passage 2-3 times. While first read may be a quick read, reading second or third time, will give you a good overview and outline of the bible passage.
• The three steps of Inductive bible studies are Observation, Interpretation and Application.

Observation:

Observation is an essential aspect of inductive bible studies. So often, we get to the interpretation or even application of the bible verse without understanding its context. But if we miss this step, we can miss a lot about what passage has to offer. In this step, you should ask yourself following questions:

• Who: Who is mentioned in the passage? To whom it is said or written? Who are the audience? It helps you to get the picture of what is going on in the passage.
• What: What is happening? What is the passage about? Is there some kind of teaching, event like miracle or healing, exhortation, warning, conversation, debate, arguments, discussion etc?
• It also helps to ask question, weather the bible passage is the historical event, poetry, narration, letter etc?
• When and Where: This is an important piece of information. Ask yourself, when and where did this occur?  The place and its significance, time of the day/month/year?
• One useful way of observation is to imagine yourself present in the settings of the bible passage.

Interpretation:

Once you get a good background and understanding of the bible passage. Now, you can move to questions about the interpretation.

• Why: Why is it mentioned? What is the core issue? What is the main focus or theme of the passage?
• You may use some other resources, such as bible dictionary or a bible commentary, if the passage is difficult to understand.
• Observation and Interpretation may overlap each other sometimes, but these two steps will enable you to understand the context and meaning of the bible passage.

Application:

Finally, Inductive bible study is not complete, unless you have an application from the bible passage. The idea of bible study is not only to learn and gain knowledge but also to apply and implement in our own lives. Ask yourself:

• How does this passage apply to present situation?
• What can I learn from this passage?
• How does it apply to me personally?
• Application process helps you to make the bible passage relevant to you, and your life experiences. It is the step in which you can relate to the bible and discover how God communicates to you through the bible passage.

So, if you have not ‘try out’ inductive bible study method, test for yourself. You will be amazed at the treasures, you may discover though it!

Check out: Reflections on Inductive Bible Study, by Ajith FernandoMore Bible Studies:

• Manuscript Bible Study Method
• How to Do Quiet Time – Time Alone with God
• Discover God’s Will – Practical Preparation
• List of Spiritual Gifts: Discover Yours
• Joseph in the Gospel of Matthew – Matthew 1:18-25 | Bible Study

Bible Study Guide: Beatitudes

Matthew 5:3-12

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”

This is the seventh beatitude mentioned in Matthew 5:3-12.  It would have shocked most jews in the crowd. Jews were looking for ‘Messiah’ who would overthrow the Roman empire and establish earthly kingdom. But Jesus supports peace and encourages the peacemakers. Once again, Kingdom of Heaven defies the norm of earthly kingdom, which is established by power, force and wars.

Group Exercise:

• Ask your Group: Who do you think are the famous peacemakers in history?
  • Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King, Mother Teresa… (Coincidentally, many of them are strongly influenced by life and teaching of Jesus!!), Jesus Christ himself.
• Find out people who have been awarded noble prize for peace & their contributions to the society.
• Think of Non profit organizations, which promotes peace and goodwill of others. Discover their roots.
  

  

Blessed are the Peacemakers:

• The very essence of peace is the Love one has received from God first. You cannot love others, unless you have experienced God’ love in first place. (Many may not agree with this statement.)
• Luke 6:27-28 – “But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
• John 13: 35 – “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
• 1 Peter 3:9 – “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
• Think about first century Christians, even in the most atrocious persecution, they refused to react violently, but always promoted peace.
• Peace makers are not only those who have a broader influence, but also those whom we turn to in our daily lives. You may find certain people in your church, community, family, workplace. These are the people who resolves differences and conflicts to maintain peace.
• The reward for the Peacemakers is very unique. “They will be called sons of God.” People may critique their methods or ways, but they cannot deny their work or the fact that it can only come from God.

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Peacemakers

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the PersecutedMore Bible Studies:

• Beatitudes: Blessed are Poor in Spirit – 8 Part Series
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8
• Persecuted for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series – Part 8 of 8
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8
• Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 4 of 8

Bible Study Guide: Beatitudes

Matthew 5: 3-12

“Blessed are pure in heart, for they will see God.”

This beatitude is one of the most striking of all beatitudes. For who can claim to be pure in heart? If we peek into our hearts, we all know that we are not pure, we have thoughts, attitudes, desires which are not pure. We may hide it from others, but we cannot hide it from ourselves. So, what can we learn from this beatitude? Let me start with some of the bible verses related to ‘pure in heart’ and ’seeing God’, and let the Word of God speak to you though it.

Pure in Heart:

• Psalms 24:4-5 – “He who has clean hands and pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear by what is false. He will receive the blessing from the Lord.”
• 1 Timothy 1:5 – ” The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart, and a good conscience and a sincere faith.”
• Psalms 51:10 – “Create in me a pure heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”
• Psalms 119:9-10 – “How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart. Do not let me stray from your commands.”

Seeing God:

• Exodus 33:20 – “You cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live.”
• 1 Timothy 6:16 – “Who is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see.”

Beatitudes: Pure in Heart:

• ‘Pure’ is an absolute term. You cannot say that this is ‘purer’. Being pure itself means that it is not defiled, polluted or mixed with impurities.
• The heart is regarded as being the seat of the intellect, the feelings and the will. Often heart implies the whole moral nature of fallen man. (Jer 17:9)
• So, how can we make it pure? It is beyond our reach to make it pure. It is God who initiates, sanctifies and perfects the heart of man who put his trust in him. It begins when we realize that we cannot do it on our own. We go through the process of sanctification throughout our life. And it will be perfected when we will be glorified in Christ Jesus.
• Sanctification is a difficult process. Water has to go through heat and fire to be purified. Gold has to go though fiery furnace to be perfected.
• 1st Peter 1:6-7 – “In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that your faith, of greater worth than gold which perishes even though refined by fire, may be proven genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.”
• So, how can we pursue purity? By living, active fellowship with God through daily personal time with God in his words and prayer, allowing God to purify us though His Holy Spirit in us – “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Pure in heart

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the PersecutedMore Bible Studies:

• Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 4 of 8
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8
• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Word of God is Like – Seven Images in Bible
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8

BibleSEO has been announced Runner-up for the ‘Best Christian Blog’ category in the ‘Christian Web and New Media Award, 2009‘ (check the list Here). It is an honor and privilege to be a part of this exclusive  group.  And I am truly humbled for this achievement. I give all the praise and glory to God only for such success to Bibleseo.com.

Christian Web and New Media awards are the first ever exclusively Christian awards ceremony for web bloggers and web designers. Established in 2007 by Premier Christian Media, the awards recognize and rewards Christian achievements on the internet.

For those who are new here, Bibleseo offers inductive bible study lessons in various categories such as bible study methods, gospels, Christian life, etc. At Bibleseo, our goal is to train, equip and inspire individuals for life-changing small group and personal bible study experience. Launched in September 2008, Bibleseo in its first year, has been viewed and used by people from 187 countries.

I personally thank all BibleSEO readers, who have participated and helped Bibleseo to become a success. Please feel free to comment or suggest about the blog, and share it with your family members, friends and colleagues.

Finally, I thank God for his guidance and strength in this endeavor.  And I hope and pray that He will continue to bring richness and intimacy in your own personal walk with Christ and in your small group through the resources provided on BibleSEO.

In Him,

Christian Amit,
Website Coordinator,
Bibleseo.comMore Bible Studies:

• Bible Study Updates from BibleSEO
• How to Lead Small Group – Practical Suggestions
• How to Effectively Lead Small Group Bible Study
• Manuscript Bible Study Method
• Discover God’s Will – Practical Preparation

• Mark 10: 17-27
• Matthew 19:16-27
• Luke 18:18-27

Q. What can we know about the rich ruler from these passages?

• Young man
• Very rich (Luke 18:18)
• Ruler, respected in society
• Sincere, very well mannered
• Religious Jew from his childhood
• Seeker, enthusiastic, willing and eager to learn (Mark 10:17)
• He had a great question to ask. After all, what can be a better way than to start a conversation with the question about Eternal life!
• This was not the only time, Jesus was asked this question. In Luke 10:25-37, One of the teachers of the Law, asked similar question to Jesus. However his intention was to test and trap Jesus. (check out – Authority of Jesus questioned by Teachers of the Law)
• This rich ruler had no such hidden agenda, he was sincere in his request.

Q. What can we infer from his question about eternal life to Jesus?

• He presumed that there is an ‘eternal life’ and it is worth receiving or inheriting!
• Jews always believed that one can be justified and saved through their works according to the Law. So, he assumed that he can do something to inherit the eternal life.
• He was sincerely following all the commandments form childhood (according to him), but he still wanted to be assured of his destiny.
• There is a deep conviction in all of us, that there is an eternal life; and it is to be greatly desired. King Solomon has put it in Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes 3:11:”He (God) has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”

Q. How did he address to Jesus?

• He called him, a “good” teacher/master. It was a common title used by the Jews to call their religious leaders or teachers, meaning – “most excellent”. The expression (’Good’) was used to show the reverence or respect to the teacher.

Q. What did Jesus answer?

• First, he dealt with his address, “why do you call me good?”. In Matthew, the question is little different from Mark and Luke, “Why do you ask me about what is good?”
• Jesus’ intention was not to deny his divinity. Jesus was not saying, “I am not God, so don’t call me good, which applies only to God!” (Many people, especially Muslim scholars, have falsely used this verse to disprove Jesus’ divinity.)
• Secondly, he did not intend to say that everything else is bad or evil, and one should not use word “good” except for God!
• His intention was to raise the standard with which God measures ‘goodness’. This was not the only time, he raised the bar. In his sermon on the mount, he told his audience, that according to God’s standard, even an anger could be as grievous as murder and lustful eyes are as sinful as adultery. God judges not only by the external actions, but the motives and intent of heart also. (Matthew 5:21,22,27,28) Our standard of goodness falls far shorter than absolute Good, God is and desires.
• The rich ruler was convinced that he had followed the Law from his childhood, but in a moment, Jesus showed him that he was guilty of Greed. (Exodus 20:17). He loved money more than following God, and in that sense, he was guilty of breaking the first of ten commandments. (Exodus 20:3 – “You shall have no other gods before me.”)

Q. What was man’s response?

• He went away sad. He choose to hold on to his earthly treasures and security.
• Jesus loved him for his question and zeal. (Mk 10:21) But he did not call him back or lower his demands for discipleship. (check out Seven Conditions of Christian Discipleship)
• (I strongly believe that Jesus was testing his heart, and if he would have repented for his love for money and failures, Jesus would have accepted him.)
• He had a choice to accept his shortcomings, but he rather decided to went away, sad.

Life Applications:

• So often, when we read this passage, we ask ourselves, “does Jesus require such a strict call for all the Christians?” We often try to lessen the demands and cost of christian discipleship. But this was not the only time, Jesus asked his disciples for such radical call. in New Testament, we find numerous accounts of people leaving all behind, for following Jesus.
  • Luke 5:11 – Peter and Andrew left everything to follow Jesus
  • Luke 5:27-28 – Matthew (Levi), the tax collector left everything. (He must be rich!)
  • Luke 19:1-10 – Zacchaeus (Again, rich tax collector), gave bulk of his wealth to the poor and needy. (Even without Jesus asking!)  (Jesus and Zacchaeus – The Guest of Sinner)
  • Acts 2:44-45 – First Christians sold everything and gave it to the needy.
• Not only, first century Christians, but Christians throughout the history have gladly given up their family, home, country, careers, even their own lives in following Jesus.
• This is a Radical Call. Perhaps, the mandate for voluntary poverty is not for all, but the readiness to forsake anything and everything that can hinder ‘following Christ’ is for every Christian.
• What are the things, God is asking you to give up for him?

More Bible Studies:

• What does Bible say about Atheism?
• Shriveled Hands – Jesus Heals on Sabbath – Mark 3:1-6 | Bible Study
• The Authority of Jesus questioned | Mark 11: 27-33 | Bible Study
• Conditions of Christian Discipleship
• Jesus and Beelzebub – Mark 3:20-30 | Bible Study

• The Meaning of Joseph – “God adds”.
• Eleventh son of Jacob and the elder of two sons of Rachel (Genesis 30:24)

Joseph’ life: I -  Genesis 37: 1-4

Q. What can we learn about Joseph?

• He was seventeen years old. He was a shepherd.
• He did not participate in his brothers’ misconducts. In fact, he brought reports of their mischief to his father.
• He was the favorite of Jacob. Jacob loved him more than all his brothers. Jacob made a coat of many colors for him.
• His brothers hated him for this reason and could not even talk with him well.
• Joseph was rather naive to tell his dreams to his brothers about his future supremacy and his brothers’ submission to him. That intensified their hatred  towards him.
• So, when the opportunity came at Dothan, they planned to kill him. But Rueben tried to rescue him by persuading them not to kill him. His brothers sold him to the caravan of Ishmaelite going to Egypt.
• His life was changed in a moment, from being the beloved son to the slave in an unknown land, Egypt.

Joseph at the Potiphar’s House: II – Genesis 39:1-20

Q. What can we learn about Joseph from this passage?

• He was a good administrator.
• Faithful servant
• Fair and handsome (Gen 39:6)
• God was with him.
• God made him prosper and successful.
• God blessed his master through him. (Gen 39:2)
• Potiphar, his master had entrusted him with charge of all of his house affairs.

Temptation of Joseph:

• He was young and handsome. He was the head of the house. None would have known if he’d have given in to the temptation by Potiphar’s wife.
• He had a healthy fear of God. (Gen 39:9)
• His temptation period was long.
• He tried to resist her as much as he could, but when time came he had to flee from the place. (How to overcome temptation, Temptation of Jesus Christ in the Wilderness)
• Due to false accusation of Potiphar’s wife, he was cast into prison. (Gen 39:20)
• Once again, he paid the price for being righteous!

Joseph in the Prison: III – Genesis 39:20 – 41:37

• Once again, God was with him in all his trials.
• One may argue, why did God not rescue him from his troubles? But God’s plan and purpose are higher than ours. We may see the immediate, but God sees at our future.
• Joseph continued to be faithful, he did not give up.
• The Lord again blessed him in all his work. The Jailer gave him charge of all the other prisoners.
• In prison, he helped the chief butler (cup-bearer) to restore his position in Pharaoh’s office.  But the cupbearer forgot his promise to mention about Joseph’s innocence to the Pharaoh.
• After two years, when Pharaoh had two dreams, the cupbearer remembered Joseph and his skills to interpret dreams.
• So when Joseph was brought to Pharaoh, he interpreted dreams about seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine.
• He suggested the preparation for the famine by storing food during the good harvest years.

Joseph: The Chief Minister (Governor) of Egypt: IV – Genesis 41:41-56

• The Pharaoh liked his proposal. And he made Joseph the Head of state to implement his plans for upcoming famine.
• He was given egyptian name and was married to egyptian priest’s daughter.
• He was 30 years old. So after 13 years of suffering and struggle, God made him the most influential person in all known world at that time.
• His wisdom and planning saved lives of people from not only Egypt but many other nations.

Joseph’s Life: The Unusual Family Reunion: V – Genesis 42-50

• The famine brought all people from different nations to Egypt for help, including his brothers from Israel.
• They could not recognize him, but he knew them. He remembered the dream he had, when he was a young boy.
• Joseph, after testing them in different ways, made him known to them. (Gen 45:1-15)
• He forgave them and persuaded them to settle in Egypt with their father, Jacob.
• Joseph lived for 110 years. (Gen 50:26)

Lessons learnt from Life of Joseph:

• God’s plans and purpose are greater and better than ours!
• God’s providence and favor to the righteous
• Suffering to God’s people is not always bad!
• Self control in youth
• Patience and perseverance in the time of troubles
• Honesty, strong work ethics
• Fear of God and Faithfulness to God

Key-verse for Life of Joseph:

• “The Lord was with Joseph”. (Gen 39:2, 39:21)
• “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Gen 50:20)

Joseph as Type of Christ:

Old Testament often represents metaphors, symbols or characters which points to Jesus Christ and God’s plan of Salvation, these are called ‘Type of Christ”. (Check out Moses as Type of Christ) Life of Joseph in many ways resembles to the life of Christ.  Here are some of the type of Christ in Joseph’s life.

• He was loved by his father.
• Rejected by his brothers
• Turned to gentiles
• Unjustly tried
• Suffered
• Was exalted with honor and glory
• Married a gentile bride
• Returned to his family and was accepted
• Delivered his people from death

More Bible Studies:

• The Life of Moses: Biblical Character
• Three Magi’s Visit to King of the Jews – Matthew 2:1-12 | Bible Lesson
• How to Overcome Temptation
• Jesus’ Geneology in the Bible – Matthew 1:1-17 | Bible Study
• The Book of Philippians – Overview and Introduction

• Mark 11:27-33

• Matthew 21:23-27

• Luke 20:1-8

Background:

• Mark 11:27 starts with ‘they arrived in Jerusalem again.” If we check the background of this event, there had been significant drama already played in Jerusalem in last few days. Let us look at last three days of Jesus.
• Day 1:
  • Jesus arrived in Jerusalem from Bethany. (Mark 11:1-10) This was his last week before crucification. He entered Jerusalem and was greeted by people as a ‘great messiah’, it was a triumphant entry.
  • On that day, he observed all that was going on in the temple, and went back with his disciples to Bethany. (Mark 11:11)
• Day 2:
  • Next day (Mark 11:12), Jesus on his way to Jerusalem, he passed by fig tree, when he did not find any fruit on fig tree, he cursed the tree. It was a visual parable for the disciples regarding the ‘barrenness of Israel’.
  • He then went to the temple in Jerusalem and drove out all the merchants and money changers. (Mk 11:15-18)
• Day 3:
  • Next day, disciples, on their way to Jerusalem, noticed that the fig tree was withered to its root (Mk 11:20)
  • Finally they arrived again in Jerusalem (v. 27). And were confronted by the chief priests and scribes in the temple courts.
  • By this time, the chief priests and scribes were already indignant by Jesus’ lack of respect of their ‘authority’, and were plotting to somehow trap him and kill him!

Q. Where was Bethany?

• Bethany was situated about 2 miles SE of Jerusalem, on the mount of Olives. (John 11:18)
• Meaning of Bethany: ‘house of unripe figs’!
• Home of Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha (Jn 11:1-2)
• Home of Simon the leper, where Jesus attended the feast of unleavened bread (Mark 14:1,3)
• It was around the city of Bethany, Jesus ascended into heaven. (Luke 24:50-51)

Q. Who were the scribes (Teachers of the Law)?

• Experts in the Law, whose profession was the systematic study and exposition of the Law
• Scribes were also called ‘teachers of the Law’.
• They often associated themselves with the Pharisees. (Mt 5:20, Mk 7:5, etc)
• They had developed and added many traditions and practices to the requirements of the Law, to insure sanctity of the Law. (Mk 7:3) These teachings were called ‘the traditions of the elders’. (Matthew 15:2-6)
• Jesus accused them for loading the common people with the “burdens that they can hardly carry.” (Luke 11:46)
• Scribes closely observed Jesus’ activities and ministry. And when Jesus refused to follow their traditions, they fiercely opposed him and tried to trap /kill him. (John 5:10-18, Mark 7:1-13)

Q. What questions did the Chief priests and the teachers of the Law ask to Jesus?

1. By What authority are you doing ‘these things’?
2. Who gave you authority to do this?

Q. What do their questions imply? What were the ‘things’ Jesus doing?

• Chief priests were the recognized authority in the matters of the temple, they allowed the money changers and traders to be in the temple courts. So when Jesus cleared the temple by driving out money changers, without their (chief priests) permission, it ticked them off.
• They assumed that Jesus did not possess any authority. They implied, “we did not give you this authority, then how can you do this?”

Q. What was so unique about Jesus’ reply?

• Jesus was not shaken by this sudden confrontation. He did not step back or withdraw himself. But he answered their question with a counter-question.
• Jesus’ question to them was, “who gave authority to John the baptist to baptize people? was it from men or from heaven (God)? (Ministry of John the Baptist)
• By his question, he took the matter to the objective level, Jesus indirectly asked, “Who ultimately gives the authority?”
• (So often, when we are confronted with some fundamental question about our belief, we try to defend ourselves by giving reasons after reasons, or plainly withdraw from the scene. But, asking a counter-question is an excellent way of shifting the focus from subjective level to the objective level.)

Q. What was the high priests’ response?

• They were baffled by this intelligent counter-attack.
• Their answer, “we do not know”, reflects their state of mind, they did not want to admit their failure, and at the same time, they wanted to please people also. So they stepped back by avoiding to answer.
• Jesus however, did not reply, “even I do not know!”, he replied, “I will not tell.”
• Jesus did not answer to them, but he did answer to his disciples. Matthew 28:18 – “Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” (John 17:1-2, John 5:26-27)

Applications:

• How do you respond when you face confrontation?
• What do you think, Jesus’ authority is from?

More Bible Studies:

• Three Magi’s Visit to King of the Jews – Matthew 2:1-12 | Bible Lesson
• Jesus and Beelzebub – Mark 3:20-30 | Bible Study
• The Sadducees and Jesus – Question about Resurrection
• John the Baptist in the Wilderness – Matthew 3:1-12 | Bible Study
• Rich Young Ruler and Jesus | Luke 18:18-27 | Bible Study

Matthew 5:3-12

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.”

Meaning of being Merciful:

• Meaning: Compassionate, helpful, kind, giving towards the weak, sick and the poor
• This beatitude hardly seems as paradoxical as some of the other beatitudes. Today, most of us would agree that it is good to be merciful to others. However, when Jesus spoke these words, it was as shocking to the audience, as some other beatitudes.
• The Romans despised pity. Being merciful was rather exception. (It reminds me of a scene  in coliseum from the movie ‘Gladiator’, when the crowd cheered Maximus for sparing life of Tigris, bestowing him the title “Maximus the Merciful”.)
• The Pharisees were also very judgmental to others and showed little mercy. These could also due to the common perception, that suffering was the result and deserving punishment of personal sin. Jesus accused and condemned the Pharisees for not showing mercy. (Matthew 23:23)
• Jesus’ ministry was marked with the compassion, love and care for the ‘unfortunate’ of this world. And the Christians are to have same attitude. Col 3:12: -”Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion.”
• Being Merciful is an action based emotion. You cannot truly be merciful or compassionate to someone, unless you really do something about it.
• It is not merely feeling bad about someone’s situation, it is an emotion which prompts one to act on it.
• It is one of the fruit of the Holy Spirit. (Kindness – Gal 5:22)
• Act of mercy first come from the realization that you yourself have been shown mercy by God.
• Luke 6:36: -”Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.”
• Being merciful does not always mean joining Red Cross or World Vision or some social justice organizations, but it is also to show compassion to those who are around us, with a kind word or a smile or a small “Act of Random Kindness”! (ARK)
• It is a daily practice or lifestyle weather at home or workplace or in the neighborhood.

Jesus summarized it in a wonderful manner in Matthew 25:35-40, “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me. “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you? “The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’

The promise:

“They will receive (obtain) mercy as they show to others”.

Kindness and compassion are the integral part of Christian character combined with love and forgiveness. Yet, I often find myself struggling with it. Many times, I may be kind to someone out of obligation or duty, but in my heart, I find myself grumbling about it, often expecting return. But when I don’t get in return, same kindness, it harbors bitterness. It reminded me of parable of Jesus of servant who received mercy from his master, but did not show mercy to his fellow servant. (Matthew 18: 23-35)

Prayer:

“Lord, help me to remember the mercy and grace I have received from you, when I struggled to be merciful and kind to others.”

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 5: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Merciful

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Persecuted (The link will be added as the lesson is available online.)More Bible Studies:

• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 6 of 8
• Blessed are Those who Mourn – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 2 of 8
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8
• Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 4 of 8

Matthew 5:3-12

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”

Q. Meaning of hunger and thirst?

• ‘Hunger and thirst’ are strong words, meaning an ardent, eager, famishing, all consuming craving, desire and passion of the soul for God and his righteousness.
• Psalms often portrays picture of man craving and desiring more of God.
• Psalm 84: 1-2: “How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty, my soul yearns, even faints for the courts of the Lord.”
• Psalm 143:6: “My Soul thirsts for you like a parched land.”

Q. Meaning of ‘Righteousness’?

• The word ‘righteousness’ comes from Greek word “dikaiosyne”, meaning rightness, quality of rightness or justice.
• it is justice held in love, both within the man and in the world.
• It is the rightness judged by the standard of God’s law.
• Being right with God

Q. What are the things, people hunger and thirst for?

• People hunger and thirst for
  • Power
  • Fame
  • Money
  • Beauty
  • Sexuality
• There are, however, those who long for God. These are the people who are not just interested or satisfied by worldly things or pleasures. They are the ‘Seekers’.  It is often human tendency to neglect the spiritual needs. But these are the people who yearn after God.

Q. What does it mean to ‘hunger and thirst for righteousness’?

• It is not seeking self-righteousness, but it is the righteousness that comes from God.
• It is to depend, not on our own will-power to achieve it but upon God.
• In Jesus’ time, if there were anybody who would qualify for such earnest passion and zeal for God, that would be the Pharisees and the Scribes (Teachers of the Law). But in the same chapter (Matthew 5:20) Jesus makes a startling statement. “For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law, You will certainly not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” How can one attain a righteousness, which even Pharisees failed to achieve? What kind of righteousness Jesus is talking about?
• Romans 3:21-22 answers the question. “But now righteousness of God apart from the Law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who will believe.”
• So then, righteousness of God is available through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe in Him. And those who will seek him, will find him and will be filled.
• Jesus himself claimed to be the one who will quench the thirst.  John 7:37: “If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.”

Practical Applications:

• Hunger and thirst are not one time need, they are our daily needs. Our body need constant nourishment from food and water to function properly. In the same way, our spirit needs daily food too. Many Christians suffer from ’spiritual malnourishment’ due to lack of hunger and thirst or lack of feeding to their spiritual needs.
• Only God can quench our thirst and satisfy our hunger for righteousness.
• What do you desire most? Do you long for more of God in you life or have you lost that hunger and thirst?

Part 1: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 2: Blessed are those Who Mourn: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 3: Blessed are the Meek: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 4: Beatitudes: Blessed are those who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness

Part 5: Blessed are the Merciful: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 6: Blessed are the Pure in heart: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 7: Blessed are the Peacemakers: Beatitudes Bible Study Series

Part 8: Beatitudes: Blessed are the Persecuted (The link will be added as the lesson is available online.)

More Bible Studies:

• Blessed are Pure in Heart – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 6 of 8
• Persecuted for Righteousness: Beatitudes Bible Study Series – Part 8 of 8
• Blessed are the Meek – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 3 of 8
• Blessed are the Peacemakers – Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 7 of 8
• Blessed are the Merciful | Beatitudes Bible Study Series | Part 5 of 8