beatitudes: Blessed are the Meek Blessed are meek, for they will inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5). Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:29).
What s on the Menu? Who does the world belong to? If you had to make that decision by watching television, it would depend on what channel you were watching. If you were watching MTV, you might say that the world belongs to popular musicians. Their videos are being played over and over as the world watches them in awe. We are wearing shirts plastered with their faces and listening to their music from sun up to sun down. We spend an enormous amount of money to see them in concert and spend our time reading about them in magazines. If we were to decide who owned the world by watching MTV, we might be a little concerned for our future. Thankfully, the world s future isn t in the hands of musicians, celebrities, or any other so-called powerful people. As usual, Jesus has a completely different idea of what it means to be powerful. This week we ll take a look at the third Beatitude. Through this study, we will discover what Jesus means to be meek and what it means to inherit the earth. Begin by reading Matthew 5:5. Appetizer: 1. Meek is not a word we use every day. How would you define the word meek? 2. Do you think being meek is a positive trait or a negative trait? 3. How do you think society views people who are meek? 4. What do you think Jesus means by the meek inheriting the earth? 5. Why do you think He would say something like that? Main Course: Wow, the meek will inherit the earth! Who are the meek, and what does it mean for them to inherit the earth? 1. First, let s try to define the word meek in a way that we understand. The dictionary definition for the word meek is: Mild of temper; mild, soft, or gentle. Do you know anyone who fits this definition? What are they like? How are meek people treated at your school? What qualities does a meek person tend to have? pg 12
2. Read Matthew 11:29. Jesus is speaking to a large crowd in Galilee. He is telling the people to come to Him, and He will give them rest and comfort. How does Jesus describe Himself? Does this fit the definition of meek? If Jesus is meek, does that mean He is a wimp? Why do you think Jesus wants us to be meek? Does he want us to be wimpy and soft? 3. Read Psalm 37. This is a long chapter, but it can be quite a comfort. This chapter could almost be another definition of being meek. How would you sum up this chapter in two sentences? Make a list of some of the things these verses tell us to do. Do you think these actions could be considered meek? Why? Compare the behavior of a wicked person vs. a meek or godly person. What are some results of being a meek person? What are some results of being a wicked person? 4. Read Revelation 1:5-6. According to these verses, who owns or rules the world? What do these verses say that we are? pg 13
Right now, it may seem like whoever is the loudest, pushiest, or most successful runs the show. But Christ is telling us the opposite. Through gentleness and love, Christ commands the world. We as Christians, through gentleness and love, will be with Christ to inherit the earth. Currently, it may seem that MTV and Bill Gates are in charge, but Christ conquers all. Those who live for Him will receive the rewards He promises. Something to Chew On: As a group discuss these final thoughts: 1. Which is easier, to be meek, or not to be meek? 2. Which is more rewarding in the world s eyes? 3. Which is more rewarding in God s eyes? Beatitude Bottom Line: If we follow Christ s model of being meek, He will give us eternal rewards. Prayer Requests: pg 14
Taking it To Go Memory Verse Blessed are meek, for they will inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5). Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Matthew 11:29). How can I apply this lesson to my life? What is one thing I will commit to the Lord this week? The To Go Box 1. Is there a promise for me to claim? 2. Is there a command for me to obey? 3. Is there a sin for me to confess? 4. Is there a lesson for me to learn? Questions about this study I need answered pg 15