Malcolm Cox

Tuesday Teaching Tip 307 | The Beatitudes and Effective Communication: Lessons for Preachers and Teachers | “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” | Malcolm Cox Introduction What would it be like to preach and teach through the filter of the beatitudes? What would the impact be on us as speakers and our congregations as listeners? Today, we will look at the second beatitude: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4 NIV11) The second beatitude follows naturally from the first one: ““Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3 NIV11)1. The Meaning in the context of the Gospel The Pharisees were mourning over the Roman domination, and perhaps over the sins of Israel, but not their own sin. Spiritually healthy people of the Old Testament days wept when God was dishonoured. “Streams of tears flow from my eyes, for your law is not obeyed.” (Psalm 119:136 NIV11) God noticed and applauded those whose hearts were grieve