Discussion Guide
This week we being a new series focused on Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount, also known as the Beatitudes. One of the key words Jesus uses repeatedly is “blessed.” But what does that really mean? It’s funny how easily we toss around the word blessed—we say it when we get a good parking spot, a free coffee, or a sunny day. But Jesus seems to define blessing in a much deeper—often more surprising—way.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. Share some “silly” blessings that have come your way. (Examples: Found $5 in your pocket, someone paid for your coffee or Chick-fil-A, scored a front row parking space at Target, got an extra chicken nugget.)
2. Read Matthew 5:1-12. What do people usually mean when they say they are blessed? How does that compare to how Jesus uses the word in this scripture?
3. Which of Jesus’ blessed statements surprise you the most and why? How do kingdom values and blessings differ from worldly blessings? Can you recall a time you allowed bitterness to creep in because life felt unfair?
4. Have you ever felt truly “blessed” during a difficult season in life? What does that look like? Have you known someone that lived a truly joy filled life regardless of their circumstances?
5. Action Steps: This is not a list that Jesus gave to be blessed. Rather He was describing the kind of heart that’s open to God and His kingdom. The Beatitudes are both a comfort and a challenge, showing us, that God’s definition of blessing runs much deeper than anything the world can offer.
*Consider the Beatitudes. Which one stands out to you? What would it look like to live that out practically?