Blessed are the Poor in Spirit Matthew 5:1-3 J Bell I. What does it mean to be “poor in spirit?” II. Application: 1. Actively celebrate the grace you’ve received everyday 2. Ask yourselves x-ray questions 3. Regularly remind yourself of the reward Questions for Discussion/Application: *Re-read Matthew 5:1-3. Re-read also the sermon Recap. How would you summarize what Jesus is saying when He says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (ESV).” *A good synonym for “poor in spirit” is humility. Why is humility so essential in the Christian life? How can pride and a high self-assessment hinder us in our relationship with God? How can it hinder us in our relationships with others? *Is it possible for a believer to be simultaneously poor and spirit and boldly and courageously confident in the Lord? If so, how? *How can reflecting on the gospel help us to be both bold and humble? *In what ways do you think self-righteousness is an enemy of being “poor in spirit”? *What attitudes and behaviors might be indicative of a person who is biblically humble and poor in spirit? *How would someone who is poor in spirit tend to relate to personal offenses? Do you think someone who is poor in spirit would be someone who is also quick to forgive? Why or why not? Explain. *How would someone who is poor in spirit tend to relate to someone being promoted over them in the workplace? *How can cultivating an attitude of “poor in spirit” keep us from envy? *Jeremy said, “To be poor in spirit is to actively rejoice, not in your own achievements or accomplishments, but in His eternal accomplishments on your behalf. To be poor in spirit is to be overwhelmed by the grace and mercy of God, realizing that He has done for you what could never be otherwise done.” How is poverty of spirit connected to true joy? How do you personally want to grow in rejoicing in who Christ is and what He has done for you? *Consider taking time to pray, asking God to help us all to grow in being biblically humble and poor in spirit.