diff --git a/content/bible_journal/luke_6:20-26.md b/content/bible_journal/luke_6:20-26.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6f8c582 --- /dev/null +++ b/content/bible_journal/luke_6:20-26.md @@ -0,0 +1,31 @@ ++++ +title = "Luke 6:20–26" +date = "2022-11-10" ++++ + +### [Read the passage.](https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Lk6.20-26) + +This is the beginning of the Sermon on the Plain, which may have been the +Sermon on the Mount with some editing, or a different event with the same +sermon material. It doesn't really matter which it is, though. + +Jesus begins with some statements that don't make sense at first. He says the +poor, the hungry, the sad, and the persecuted should be considered the most +fortunate and happy. They are winning at life. Conversely, He says the rich, +the satisfied, the joyous, and the popular are in danger. What's going on? + +Jesus's point is that there is more to life than this life. If Heaven is not +real, then these statements are nonsensical. But because it is real, we should +consider carefully what Jesus is saying. People having hard times cannot rely +on themselves to see them through, but can more easily rely on God, trusting +Him to gather them into His kingdom. Those with easier, happy lives are blind +to their need for a Savior and do not seek after God. + +Notice that Jesus doesn't say that persecution for any reason is a reason for +blessing, but persecution because of Himself. It is better to be hated for +doing good than for doing evil. + +* * * + +Help us to be wary of the riches and pleasures of this world, which put us in +danger of missing Your eternal blessings.