Blessed Are the Merciful based on Matthew 5:7

I. Introduction and read Matthew 5:3-6 and comment. Matthew 5:3–6, “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 satisfied.”

II. Beatitudes similar to division of Ten Commandments.

III. Read Matthew 5:7 and comment about mercy. Matthew 5:7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”

IV. March 24, 1989, Exxon Valdez oil spill of 11 million barrels.

V. Mild collision compared to our hurt feelings.

VI. Resentment is normal, but Jesus gives a better way.

VII. Read Matthew 5:7 and comment on Jesus’ parable in Matthew 18 about $12 billion (10,000 talents) vs. $800 (100 denarii). Matthew 5:7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”

VIII. Mercy’s meaning is deep compassion and Exodus 34:6. Mercy’s meaning is deep compassion. Exodus 34:6 states, “The Lord passed before (Moses) and proclaimed, ‘The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.’”

IX. Mercy’s mark is forgiveness and Luke 6:36-37 and grudges. Luke 6:36-37 tells us, “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven.”

X. Mercy’s motive is Jesus. Mercy’s motive is Jesus. Matthew 9:27, two blind men cry out, “Lord, have mercy!” Christ gives them sight. Matthew 15:22, a Canaanite woman cries out, “Lord, have mercy!” Christ heals her daughter. Matthew 17:15, a father with a suffering son cries out, “Lord, have mercy!” Christ heals the son. Mark 10:47, blind Bartimaeus cries out, “Lord, have mercy!” Christ restored Bartimaeus’ sight. But there’s more. Oh, there is infinitely more!

XI. Mercy has a name, Jesus!

XII. Conclusion. Psalm 136 repeats this 26 times, “His mercy endures forever.” Crashes are inevitable. Broken hearts are tough to heal. Things get all sticky and dark and black and messy. Then what? Set yourself and other people free. How? Show them mercy! “Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy!” Amen.