BE attitudes

MATTHEW 5:1-12 – BE Attitudes
GOSPEL IN THE TEXT

Nearly 140 years ago (1884-1885), CFW Walther lectured at the Seminary on the “Proper Distinction between Law and Gospel.” Since that time, we, as Lutheran Christians, have always taken great care in making that proper distinction. But, in the text that confronts us today, that distinction is not entirely clear. It could be viewed as either Law or as Gospel. One thing we do know is that this text describes the Attitudes that we are empowered by Christ to BE.

Our task for today is to concentrate on opportunities for Gospel in this text. Our task is not to settle – let alone enter into – the familiar controversy whether the Beatitudes it contains are Law or Gospel. One approach that will help us to realize the Gospel potential of this text is to view the Beatitudes more as statements of fact, rather than as challenges for our life today. For example, “Blessed are the poor in spirit” – t h is is the condition that exists already for those who have a living connection with Christ by faith – Experiencing Christ! The Beatitudes are addressed to people already followers of Jesus (as we see in v. 1). Even if viewed as Law, the Beatitudes must be considered NOT as prerequisites or conditions for Christian discipleship – being followers of Jesus, but rather as descriptions of God ‘s expectations of those who are already saved – How we are to BE in our daily lives.