What The Spirit of the Age Blesses vs What Jesus Blesses

The following is from Brian Zahnd’s recent sermon on the Beatitudes entitled, “The Declaration of Blessedness.”

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The spirit of the age blesses the cocky and self-confident… But Jesus blesses the poor in spirit.

The spirit of the age blesses those who are shallow and thus happy all the time… But Jesus blesses those who have the capacity to mourn deeply.

The spirit of the age blesses the power-hungry who want to run the world… But Jesus blesses the meek who are willing to trust God.

The spirit of the age blesses the privilege-protectors… But Jesus blesses the justice-seekers.

The spirit of the age blesses those who think justice is retribution and revenge… Jesus blesses the merciful instead.

The spirit of the age blesses the clever ones who come up with the best schemes… Jesus blesses the pure-hearted who have no schemes.

The spirit of the age blesses those who are great at waging war… Jesus blesses those who have the patience to work for peace.

The spirit of the age blesses those who fight for might… Jesus blesses those who suffer for what is right.