Charter Members

Charter Members

One preacher referred to the Sermon on the Mount as “the charter for the kingdom of heaven.” A charter is a document that outlines the responsibilities and benefits of membership in an organization. The Sermon on the Mount can be called the charter for the “kingdom of heaven” because it identifies the code of conduct for its citizens, and it begins with a section known as the Beatitudes. What are the Beatitudes and why do they matter?

Sermon Handout

Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him.

And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.

– Matthew 5:1-11