Matthew 5:7
The sermon explores the importance of being merciful as a key characteristic of a Christian, highlighting the need to go beyond mere actions and focus on a heart of mercy.
Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of mercy in the life of a Christian, stating that being merciful is a fundamental characteristic that reflects one's true nature as a follower of Christ. He explains that mercy involves not just a feeling of pity but also a desire to alleviate the suffering of others, drawing parallels to biblical examples such as the Good Samaritan and Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers. Smith warns against legalism and highlights that true mercy is rooted in grace, reminding us that we too have received mercy from God. Ultimately, he encourages believers to embody mercy in their daily lives as a testament to their faith.
Text
"BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL"
I. FURTHER STAGE IN DESCRIPTION OF CHRISTIAN.
Prior straits needs.
Now look at disposition. Results from prior. Blessed are the
merciful. Searching statement. This is what Christian should be
- merciful "Search me oh God and know my thoughts, try me..."
If we are anxious to be on with this and talk of communism
position contrary to N .T. man.
A. man who is truly a Christian never objects to being humbled.
Christian emphasis is on being - not doing.
Attitude more important than actions. More what we are than what
we do. Later he talks of actions. You are a Christian first and
actions are a result. Not meant to control our Christianity, it is
meant to control us. Not a surface experience. Beatitudes tell us
that as we are living our ordinary daily life, we are declaring
what we are.
II. ARE WE MERCIFUL?
Not easy going, overlooking sin not natural God our example of
mercy. Grace is associated to man in his sin - Mercy is associated
to man in misery of sin. Sense of pity and desire to relieve from
suffering. Pity and action.
Parable of Good Samaritan.
Joseph with brothers.
God sending His Son.
Ill "FOR THEY SHALL OBTAIN MERCY."
A. Problem -legalism.
1. Forgive.
a. If we were judged on this basis, none would be
saved.
b. Opposed to doctrine of grace.
B. Follow progression of beatitudes.
1. Christ on cross.
2. Stephen being stoned.
Sermon Outline
- I. FURTHER STAGE IN DESCRIPTION OF CHRISTIAN
- A. Prior straits needs.
- B. Now look at disposition. Results from prior.
- C. Blessed are the merciful.
- II. ARE WE MERCIFUL?
- A. Not easy going, overlooking sin not natural God our example of mercy.
- B. Parable of Good Samaritan.
- III. FOR THEY SHALL OBTAIN MERCY
- A. Problem - legalism.
- 1. Forgive.
- a. If we were judged on this basis, none would be saved.
- b. Opposed to doctrine of grace.
Key Quotes
“Blessed are the merciful.” — Chuck Smith
“Search me oh God and know my thoughts, try me...” — Chuck Smith
Application Points
- As a Christian, it's essential to focus on being merciful, rather than just doing good deeds.
- A heart of mercy is a result of living a life of faith and following God's example.
- Legalism can lead to a focus on rules and actions, rather than a heart of mercy, and opposes the doctrine of grace.