The Righteousness that Qualifies By Pastor Don Strand So far, the description of a disciple, one who follows and learns, of Jesus has been negative in nature.  The first three “Beatitudes,” the “blessed are” statements of Jesus from His Sermon on the Mount have been about lacking.  A follower of Christ is poor in spirit,…

What’s all this talk about meekness? By Pastor Don Strand The early church theologian, John Chrysostom, was once asked, what are the three most important Christian virtues.  His answer, “first, humility, second, humility and third, humility.”   With these first three beatitudes; how those who are poor in spirit, who mourn over personal sin and the…

Why Are Those Who Mourn Blessed? By Pastor Don Strand Jesus continues, with the pronouncement of eight attributes that are seen in a disciple of Christ which will bring God’s blessing, with this second Beatitude.  ““Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4, ESV). How is it, that a condition of…