Bible Discussion Thread

What is it to be poor in spirit? Mathew 5:3.

Thanks Chris. This does help.

Hello Neville. I tend to understand this verse as referring to those who are contrite, even broken, in their spirit. Maybe because of their circumstances in life, hardships, trials and so forth, they have nothing to boast about or revel in, but their spirits are brought into a correct attitude about life & their need of real help. Any material blessing would only temporarily make life easier but when the spirit reaches out & longs for that which really satisfies, God will readily meet their need.

Luke 6:20 reads as, "Blessed be ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God". And Luke 4:18, Jesus quoting from Isaiah about Himself, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor...". Whether in spiritual poverty or lacking in worldly goods, even having a spirit that is contrite before God, Jesus came to minister to these folk, that through their poverty & spiritual need they would ultimately be blessed; and post-crucifixion & the Work of the Holy Spirit, these are the broken spirits that will be affected and moved towards the Lord's Salvation.

Worldly: in contrast with the promise of the kingdom