Luke 6:20-26 – Poor and Rich

Christ describes as blessed those who are poor, hungry, sad, and hated. But we must not misunderstand what He is saying. The mere fact of being poor, hungry, sorrowful, and hated by men isn’t enough to claim this blessing. Jesus is talking about those who are poor, hungry, sorrowful, and hated for their faith in Him. He is saying that those who have to suffer for their trust in God will be blessed. Hardship, trial, suffering is the inevitable consequence of faith. The world hates those who love Christ. The devil attacks those who serve Christ. If this is why we are suffering, Christ tells us that we will be blessed.

We must also be careful not to misunderstand the rest of this passage. Being rich, or happy, or popular is not proof that people are not Christ’s disciples. Abraham and Job were rich. David and Paul rejoiced. Timothy was well-liked. Our Lord Jesus Christ is talking about men who love the good things of this world more than the things of God. They love the joys and comfort of this world and are not willing to risk losing them for the joy of heaven. They love the praise of men more than the praise of God, and will turn their back on Christ rather than the world.

The teachings of Christ are the complete opposite of the thoughts of the world. Suffering, poverty, sadness, these are things the world works hard to avoid. Riches, happiness, popularity, these are things the world sacrifices everything to gain. What do you think? Do you really value the love of Christ, when it comes with trouble and sorrow, as better than money, happiness, and popularity without Christ?

Questions
1. What kind of people will be blessed?
2. What kind will be cursed?
3. What does the world say is important? What does Christ say?

Prayer Points
1. Pray that we would put Christ first in our lives.
2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
3. Pray for family matters.