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 third beatitude: “Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5 NIV11) The third beatitude follows naturally from the first two: ““Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:3–4 NIV11) 1. The Meaning in the context of the Gospel     - Greek: ‘praus’ means, ‘gentle, humble, considerate, courteous’     - The blessing is paradoxical.  The proud, boastful and pushy seem to inherit the earth in our experience.      - Jesus = ultimate example (same Greek word in these passages….)         - ““Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” (Matthew 11:28–29 N