Luke 6:20-26

content/bible_journal/luke_6:20-26.md

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+title = "Luke 6:20–26"
+date = "2022-11-10"
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+
+### [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.