BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL

MATTHEW 5:6

Blessed Are the Merciful—Matt. 5:6• Mercy Isaiah 49:25, Jeremiah 31:20, Eph. 2:4 • Major characteristic of God Exodus 34:6• Compassion a deep & tender emotion because

of another’s need he cannot fulfill alone• Can’t be demanded or earned (from within)• We can ask for it from God & others• We should ask for it sometimes• We should give it even when not asked for it 1

John 3:16-18• Heb. 13:16 is a sacrifice

Blessed Are the Merciful—Matt. 5:6• Because of God’s mercy, we are to be merciful

Romans 12:1,8 with cheerfulness• Hosea 6:6 mercy not sacrifice• Knowledge of God more than burnt offering

Fulfilling Needs—Luke 6:27-36• Physical: financial, food, help with tasks• Social: time, attention, involvement• Emotional: peace, support, comfort• Spiritual: forgiveness, gospel, encouragement

For They Shall Obtain Mercy—Matt. 5:6• If we realize God’s mercy, we will be merciful• If we are merciful, we will receive mercy• Matthew 18:21-35• The unmerciful do not understand mercy• The unmerciful cannot receive mercy James

2:13• God will treat us as we treat others Psalm 18:25• God delights to forgive Psalm 51:16-17• He gave His Son so He could Rom. 5:6-8• Receive His mercy today Rom. 10:17,13, 2:4, 6:3