The Beatitudes "Blessed Are the Merciful" Matthew 5:1-7 The Paradox of Mercy · We love receiving mercy but struggle showing it. · Mercy shown to us comes from embodying a spirit of mercy. · The Counter-Beatitude · Cursed are the unmerciful, for they will not be shown mercy. · Is the cost of showing mercy worth the loss of not receiving mercy? An Understanding of Mercy · God has created us to be in relationship with Him. Genesis 1: 26-31 · We Sinned Against God. Genesis 3: 6-7 · Our Sins Separate Us From God. Romans 3: 23 · Due to our actions towards God, WE NEEDED MERCY. · God sent Jesus to pay the price for our sins. John 3:16 · Through the work of Jesus, God shows you mercy and forgiveness. 1 John: 1:9 Justice vs. Mercy · The mercy that God has shown you is greater than the perceived injustice that you experience. · It ought to be impossible for someone to receive the mercy of God through the forgiveness of sins and still have an unmerciful heart to those around us. · Do you remember the mercy God showed you? Have you received the mercy of God through salvation? · How do we practically show this kind of mercy? Titus 3:1-5 · The only way that we will be able to show mercy is by living in and through the mercy we have received from God, not trusting in your own righteousness. Next Step: - Take a moment to reflect on the mercy that God has shown you each day this week.