Matthew 5:9
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Blessed are the peacemakers--who not only study peace, but diffuse it. for they shall be called the children of God--shall be called sons of God. Of all these beatitudes this is the only one which could hardly be expected to find its definite ground in the Old Testament; for that most glorious character of God, the likeness of which appears in the peacemakers, had yet to be revealed. His glorious name, indeed--as "The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin"--had been proclaimed in a very imposing manner (Exo 34:6), and manifested in action with affecting frequency and variety in the long course of the ancient economy. And we have undeniable evidence that the saints of that economy felt its transforming and ennobling influence on their own character. But it was not till Christ "made peace by the blood of the cross" that God could manifest Himself as "the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant" (Heb 13:20) --could reveal Himself as "in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them," and hold Himself forth in the astonishing attitude of beseeching men to be "reconciled to Himself" (Co2 5:19-20). When this reconciliation actually takes place, and one has "peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ"--even "the peace of God which passeth all understanding"--the peace-receivers become transformed into peace-diffusers. God is thus seen reflected in them; and by the family likeness these peacemakers are recognized as the children of God. In now coming to the eighth, or supplementary beatitude, it will be seen that all that the saints are in themselves has been already described, in seven features of character; that number indicating completeness of delineation. The last feature, accordingly, is a passive one, representing the treatment that the characters already described may expect from the world. He who shall one day fix the destiny of all men here pronounces certain characters "blessed"; but He ends by forewarning them that the world's estimation and treatment of them will be the reserve of His.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Blessed are the peace makers,.... Not between God and man, for no man can make his own peace with God; nor can any mere creature, angels, or men, make it for him; Christ, in this sense, is the only peace maker: but between men and men; and such are they, who are of peaceable dispositions themselves; live peaceably with all men, and with one another, as their relation obliges to, and their mutual comfort requires; and with the men of the world; and who are ready, willing, and very serviceable, in composing differences, and making peace between their fellow creatures and fellow Christians. The Jews speak very highly, and much, in the commendation of peace making; they reckon this among the things which shall be of use to a man, both in this, and the other world. "These are the things, (say they (e),) the fruit of which a man enjoys in this world, and his lot or portion remains for him in the world to come; honouring father and mother, liberality, , "and making peace between a man and his neighhour."'' This, they say (f), Aaron was much disposed to. "Moses used to say, let justice break through the mountain; but Aaron loved peace, and pursued it, and made peace between a man and his neighhour, as is said, Mal 2:6'' Hence that saying of Hillell (g), "be thou one of the disciples of Aaron, who loved peace, and followed after it; he loved men, and brought them to the law.'' Now of such persons it is said, that they shall be called the children of God; that is, they are the children of God by adopting grace, which is made manifest in their regeneration; and that is evidenced by the fruits of it, of which this is one; they not only shall be, and more manifestly appear to be, the sons of God hereafter; but they are, and are known to be so now, by their peaceable disposition, which is wrought in them by the Spirit of God; whereby they become like to the God of peace, and to Christ, the great and only peacemaker, and so are truly sons of peace. (e) Misn. Peah. c. 1. sect. 1. T. Bab. Sabbat. fol. 127. 1. & Kiddushin. fol. 40. 1. (f) T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 6. 2. Vid. Abot. R. Nathan, c. 12. fol. 4. 2. (g) Pirke Abot. c. 1. sect. 12.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:9 This beatitude probably targeted zealots—Jewish revolutionaries who advocated the overthrow of Roman domination through violent resistance. The Messiah’s Kingdom would be established by other means. • those who work for peace: Jesus is not calling for pacifism per se, but rather a different kind of activism. • Peace is the absence of enmity and the presence of God’s salvation (Lev 26:6; 1 Sam 16:4-5; Isa 9:5-6; Zech 8:16; Eph 2:14; Col 1:20). Jesus’ disciples are to work for justice, righteousness, reconciliation, and mercy as the effects of God’s salvation through Christ (Matt 5:43-47; Luke 10:5-6).
Matthew 5:9
The Beatitudes
8Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. 9Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. 10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Law of the Holy Spirit) God's House - a Three Story Building
By Zac Poonen6.2K49:09God's LoveLaw Of The Holy SpiritBuilding the ChurchPRO 22:15MAT 5:9JHN 17:23ACT 2:42ROM 8:1EPH 6:12COL 3:14HEB 10:241PE 3:71JN 4:18Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of building a godly life, home, and church, illustrating that the foundation of our lives must be rooted in the understanding of God's immense love for us, akin to how He loves Jesus. He shares personal experiences of overcoming feelings of inferiority and the necessity of surrendering every aspect of our lives to God to prevent the devil from gaining a foothold. Poonen stresses that a strong personal relationship with God and a loving home environment are essential before one can effectively contribute to the church. He encourages believers to focus on building a community of faith that reflects unity and love, rather than merely individual holiness. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to the church as the body of Christ, where believers work together in harmony to fulfill God's purpose.
Bondage Breaker - Part 3
By Neil T. Anderson4.4K39:16MAT 5:9MAT 12:302CO 6:14EPH 4:29EPH 6:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the topic of temptation and how everyone experiences it. He uses the analogy of a movie called Sand Pebbles to illustrate the challenges faced by missionaries in China. The speaker emphasizes the importance of staying under authority and fixing our eyes on Jesus as we navigate through the temptations of the world. He also mentions the need to put on the armor of God to protect ourselves from vulnerability. The sermon includes a personal story of a missionary struggling with mental health issues and the importance of seeking help.
A Life of Peace
By Zac Poonen1.9K57:13PRO 16:7MAT 5:9ROM 8:62TI 3:13HEB 4:9JAS 3:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of pursuing a life of peace in three key areas: peace with God inwardly, peace with all men, and peace in circumstances and relationships. It encourages listeners to seek a disciplined life, non-judgmental attitude, self-acknowledgement, and a life of peace amidst trials and tribulations.
Blessed Are the Peacemaker
By Dwight Pentecost1.8K29:39PeacemakerISA 57:21MAT 5:9MAT 18:12JHN 14:27EPH 4:3COL 1:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of maintaining unity within the body of believers. He refers to a parable in Matthew's Gospel where Jesus speaks of a shepherd who leaves his flock of ninety-nine sheep to search for the one that is lost. This illustrates God's desire for none of His children to perish. The preacher also discusses the process of reconciliation within the church, highlighting the need for peacemakers and the involvement of the whole assembly in restoring peace. He concludes by reminding the listeners of the power of agreement in prayer and the promise of Christ's presence when believers gather in His name.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
(Revelation) the Church at Smyrna
By Willie Mullan1.5K1:05:07SmyrnaEXO 20:13MAT 5:9REV 1:1REV 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the joy, peace, and hope that believers have in their relationship with God. He describes this joy as being almost tangible and full of glory. He also highlights the richness of being a follower of Christ, even if one may not have material wealth. The preacher then transitions to discussing the book of Revelation, specifically focusing on chapters 2 and 3. He reminds the audience that the book is a revelation of Jesus Christ given by God and delivered through the Spirit to John. The preacher encourages the listeners to pay attention to what the Spirit is saying to the churches.
The Beauty of Unity
By Jim Cymbala1.3K33:40UnityPSA 66:18MAT 5:9MAT 12:25MAT 13:33MAT 18:20MRK 3:20ROM 16:17In this sermon, the preacher begins by sharing that he felt prompted to preach a different message than planned. He then reads from the book of Mark, specifically chapter 3, where Jesus enters a house and a crowd gathers around him. The preacher emphasizes the importance of unity and warns against division, stating that anything divided against itself becomes weak and eventually crumbles. He references various examples, such as a choir, a deacon board, and even a nation, to illustrate the destructive nature of division. The preacher concludes by highlighting the New Testament's instruction to mark and avoid those who cause division, emphasizing the importance of love and unity in the church.
We Have Been Called to Peace
By Alan Martin1.2K00:00PeacePSA 34:14MAT 5:9MRK 9:50ROM 12:17HEB 12:12JAS 3:181PE 3:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of allowing the peace of God to rule and govern our hearts. He compares it to a governor in an older vehicle that limits its speed to prevent potential crashes. The peace of God is what keeps us from reaching full throttle and prevents conflicts and divisions among believers. The speaker also highlights that Jesus intended for His disciples to have peace and encourages us to preserve the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.
Peacemakers
By George Verwer1.0K35:48PeacemakersPRO 11:14MAT 5:9JHN 4:23ROM 12:18EPH 4:15PHP 2:31TH 5:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of tailoring the message of the word of God to different cultures. He mentions the Prosperity Code and extremism in America, contrasting it with the mentality in India where the focus is on accomplishing the work without seeking credit. The speaker also discusses the tension between Mr. Hard Work and Mr. Work is Hard, highlighting the need for teamwork and allowing others to share in speaking. Lastly, he mentions the importance of consolidation and prioritizing goals in order to avoid unnecessary stress and tension.
The Peacemaker
By Shane Idleman79350:52MAT 5:9JAS 4:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of being a peacemaker, focusing on the need to overcome selfish desires that lead to conflicts. It highlights the significance of responding with gentleness, sharing contributions to conflicts, and restoring relationships gently. The message encourages seeking peace through humility, grace, and love, reflecting the character of God in resolving conflicts.
Life of William Tyndale
By Ian Murray79358:23MAT 5:9HEB 11:32In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of faith and the examples of faith found in the Bible. He mentions various biblical figures such as Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and the prophets, who through their faith, achieved great things and overcame challenges. The preacher emphasizes that these individuals were able to subdue kingdoms, perform miracles, and endure persecution because of their unwavering faith in God. He also highlights the suffering and trials faced by some of these faithful individuals, including torture, imprisonment, and even death, but they remained steadfast in their faith, knowing that God had a better promise for them. The sermon concludes with an exhortation to the listeners to lay aside their burdens and sins, and to run the race of faith with patience, looking to Jesus as the ultimate example of faith and endurance.
6) Wisdom Is With the Humble (Kannada)
By Zac Poonen76353:18PRO 6:16MAT 5:9MAT 19:30EPH 3:4This sermon delves into the mystery of Christ as revealed in Ephesians chapter 3, emphasizing the importance of humility, honesty, and unity in the body of Christ. It contrasts the proud and the humble, highlighting the significance of being a peacemaker and a servant rather than seeking prominence. The message underscores God's wisdom in building His church with those who are truly humble, honest, and pure, while warning against pride and impurity that can hinder one's place in God's kingdom.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 13
By Zac Poonen67025:07MAT 5:9PHP 2:14This sermon delves into the often neglected part of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:20, emphasizing the importance of making disciples who follow Jesus completely and teaching them to obey His commands. It focuses on the significance of being peacemakers, seeking peace in a world filled with conflict and darkness, and the blessings of being called sons of God. The sermon also highlights the inevitability of persecution for those who stand for righteousness and unashamedly proclaim their faith in Jesus Christ, encouraging believers to rejoice and be glad in the midst of persecution.
We Wrestle Not Against Flesh and Blood
By Joshua Daniel60514:30Spiritual WarfareMAT 5:91CO 14:33EPH 5:29EPH 6:121TI 2:1JAS 4:71PE 5:8In this sermon, Joshua Daniel discusses the spiritual battle that Christians face. He references Ephesians 6:12, which states that our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. He shares a personal experience of encountering evil spirits during a preaching event in a Hindu pilgrimage site. He emphasizes the importance of prayer, particularly the power of a husband and wife praying together, and warns of the devil's attempts to attack and create friction in families.
Is God a Priority?
By Shane Idleman50950:32MAT 5:9MAT 6:24JHN 14:6ACT 4:311PE 3:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of making God a priority in our lives, highlighting the need to prioritize our relationship with God over worldly distractions. It discusses the transformation that occurs when we truly surrender to God, like the Apostle Paul's conversion from persecutor to preacher. The sermon also touches on the significance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, being bold in sharing our faith, and being peacemakers in challenging situations.
Paul's Peace
By Leonard Ravenhill1701:26:52Faithfulness of GodPeace in TrialsPaulMAT 5:9JHN 16:33ROM 5:1ROM 8:312CO 4:17PHP 4:71TH 5:242TI 1:12HEB 9:261PE 1:19Leonard Ravenhill preaches on 'Paul's Peace', emphasizing the Apostle Paul's unwavering faith and peace amidst trials and tribulations. He reflects on how Paul, despite facing immense suffering and persecution, remained steadfast in his mission, drawing strength from his relationship with Christ. Ravenhill highlights that true peace comes from reliance on God's faithfulness rather than our circumstances, encouraging believers to embrace their challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth. He reminds the congregation that, like Paul, they can find boldness and access to God through the sacrifice of Jesus, who triumphed over sin and death.
Israel: What's Going On? What We Can We Do?
By Shane Idleman3552:48Faith in Troubling TimesIsrael and the Middle East ConflictGEN 12:3DEU 28:2NEH 1:8PSA 27:7ISA 49:16JER 31:35EZK 38:1MAT 5:9ROM 11:17REV 8:1Shane Idleman addresses the complexities surrounding Israel's current situation, emphasizing the importance of understanding the historical and biblical context. He discusses the ongoing conflict, the role of various nations, and the significance of Israel in God's plan, urging the congregation to stand with Israel while also recognizing the need for compassion towards all affected by the violence. Idleman highlights the necessity of seeking truth through God's Word and encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith amidst societal turmoil, reminding them that God is ultimately in control.
A Desperate Plea for Unity
By Shane Idleman1348:38Unity in the ChurchOvercoming DivisionPRO 6:16MAT 5:9JHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141PE 3:8Shane Idleman passionately addresses the urgent need for unity within the church, drawing from the teachings of 1 Corinthians. He emphasizes that believers, while called to be saints, often struggle with sin and disunity, which can hinder the work of God. Idleman warns against the divisive nature of arguments and debates over non-essential issues, urging the congregation to focus on the essentials of faith and to fight for unity. He highlights that true unity is not about uniformity in opinion but about being united in purpose and love for Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to examine our hearts and attitudes, especially regarding how we treat one another within the body of Christ.
Finding Unity in the Midst of Uncertainty
By Shane Idleman1138:25RacismUnityPRO 10:12MAT 5:9ROM 12:182CO 5:17GAL 3:28EPH 4:3COL 3:11JAS 2:11PE 2:91JN 4:20Shane Idleman, alongside Pastor Abram Thomas, addresses the pressing issues of racism and unity in America, particularly in light of recent events surrounding George Floyd's death. They emphasize the importance of understanding different perspectives and the need for believers to come together in love and truth, rather than allowing division to take root. The discussion highlights the reality of racism as a sin issue rather than a skin issue, urging Christians to reflect on their hearts and actions. They call for repentance and a commitment to fostering unity within the church and society, recognizing that true change comes through the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Peacemaker: Resolving Conflict
By Shane Idleman336:09Conflict ResolutionPeacemakingMAT 5:9ROM 12:18EPH 4:31Shane Idleman emphasizes the role of a peacemaker in resolving conflicts, highlighting that while truth may bring division, our attitudes should reflect grace and love. He stresses the importance of actively pursuing peace in our homes and workplaces, as conflict is a natural part of life. Idleman encourages individuals to take the initiative in peacemaking, reminding us that forgiveness and grace are essential in overcoming bitterness and anger. He also points out that true peace requires effort and cannot be achieved passively. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to fight for peace and embody the character of Christ in our interactions.
Seeking the Good of His People, and Speaking
By F.B. Meyer1PeaceKindnessEST 10:3PSA 34:14PRO 16:24MAT 5:9ROM 12:10PHP 4:7COL 3:121TH 5:11HEB 12:14JAS 3:18F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of seeking the good of others and speaking peace into their lives. He encourages adopting a mindset of self-sacrifice and thoughtfulness, suggesting that small acts of kindness can prepare hearts for the Gospel. Meyer highlights the need to soothe troubled souls with words of sympathy and to maintain a law of kindness in our speech. He urges listeners to actively pursue peace and allow God's peace to guard their hearts and minds. Ultimately, he calls for a collective effort to uplift those around us, reflecting the love of Christ.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
Epistle 309
By George Fox0PeaceRighteousnessEXO 23:1ISA 26:4ISA 28:16EZK 38:23MAT 5:9MAT 18:7LUK 2:49PHP 4:81TH 4:12HEB 7:2George Fox emphasizes the importance of seeking peace among all people, which is found in Christ and cannot be taken away by the world. He highlights the blessings for peacemakers and warns against causing strife and offense. Fox encourages believers to act and speak in the righteousness of Christ, ensuring that their actions reflect God's love and truth. He advises against spreading evil reports and stresses the need for careful judgment and virtuous conduct in all interactions. Ultimately, he calls for a focus on the presence and wisdom of God to maintain righteousness and peace within the community.
Garden of the Heart - Part 3
By J.R. Miller0Rest in ChristFaithfulnessISA 26:3MAT 5:9MAT 25:21ROM 15:22CO 1:3GAL 6:2PHP 4:61TI 6:20JAS 1:271PE 5:7J.R. Miller emphasizes the importance of guarding the sacred trusts God has given us, urging believers to live each day with purpose and faithfulness. He illustrates that our responsibilities, whether in relationships, duties, or our Christian walk, require diligence and a commitment to purity, akin to the ermine's desire to keep its fur unspotted. Miller encourages Christians to find rest not in escaping life's struggles but in fulfilling their duties with a heart at peace, drawing strength from Christ. He concludes by highlighting the need for comfort and the role of peacemakers, reminding us that our actions should uplift others and reflect God's love. Ultimately, he calls for a life lived in accountability to God, where we report our daily actions and intentions to Him.
Psalms 2:6
By Chuck Smith0RestorationGod's KingdomPSA 2:6ISA 11:6ISA 35:1MAT 5:9ROM 14:17REV 21:4Chuck Smith emphasizes the prophetic nature of Psalms 2:6, highlighting the urgent need for God's kingdom to reign on earth due to the chaos and suffering caused by Satan's influence. He describes the current state of the world as a stark contrast to God's original creation, filled with pollution, strife, and sorrow. Smith outlines the conditions of God's kingdom, which include peace, righteousness, restoration, love, and rejoicing, and he reassures that those who trust in Jesus will inhabit this kingdom. The sermon calls for a longing for the return of Christ and the establishment of His reign.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Blessed are the peacemakers--who not only study peace, but diffuse it. for they shall be called the children of God--shall be called sons of God. Of all these beatitudes this is the only one which could hardly be expected to find its definite ground in the Old Testament; for that most glorious character of God, the likeness of which appears in the peacemakers, had yet to be revealed. His glorious name, indeed--as "The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin"--had been proclaimed in a very imposing manner (Exo 34:6), and manifested in action with affecting frequency and variety in the long course of the ancient economy. And we have undeniable evidence that the saints of that economy felt its transforming and ennobling influence on their own character. But it was not till Christ "made peace by the blood of the cross" that God could manifest Himself as "the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant" (Heb 13:20) --could reveal Himself as "in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them," and hold Himself forth in the astonishing attitude of beseeching men to be "reconciled to Himself" (Co2 5:19-20). When this reconciliation actually takes place, and one has "peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ"--even "the peace of God which passeth all understanding"--the peace-receivers become transformed into peace-diffusers. God is thus seen reflected in them; and by the family likeness these peacemakers are recognized as the children of God. In now coming to the eighth, or supplementary beatitude, it will be seen that all that the saints are in themselves has been already described, in seven features of character; that number indicating completeness of delineation. The last feature, accordingly, is a passive one, representing the treatment that the characters already described may expect from the world. He who shall one day fix the destiny of all men here pronounces certain characters "blessed"; but He ends by forewarning them that the world's estimation and treatment of them will be the reserve of His.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Blessed are the peace makers,.... Not between God and man, for no man can make his own peace with God; nor can any mere creature, angels, or men, make it for him; Christ, in this sense, is the only peace maker: but between men and men; and such are they, who are of peaceable dispositions themselves; live peaceably with all men, and with one another, as their relation obliges to, and their mutual comfort requires; and with the men of the world; and who are ready, willing, and very serviceable, in composing differences, and making peace between their fellow creatures and fellow Christians. The Jews speak very highly, and much, in the commendation of peace making; they reckon this among the things which shall be of use to a man, both in this, and the other world. "These are the things, (say they (e),) the fruit of which a man enjoys in this world, and his lot or portion remains for him in the world to come; honouring father and mother, liberality, , "and making peace between a man and his neighhour."'' This, they say (f), Aaron was much disposed to. "Moses used to say, let justice break through the mountain; but Aaron loved peace, and pursued it, and made peace between a man and his neighhour, as is said, Mal 2:6'' Hence that saying of Hillell (g), "be thou one of the disciples of Aaron, who loved peace, and followed after it; he loved men, and brought them to the law.'' Now of such persons it is said, that they shall be called the children of God; that is, they are the children of God by adopting grace, which is made manifest in their regeneration; and that is evidenced by the fruits of it, of which this is one; they not only shall be, and more manifestly appear to be, the sons of God hereafter; but they are, and are known to be so now, by their peaceable disposition, which is wrought in them by the Spirit of God; whereby they become like to the God of peace, and to Christ, the great and only peacemaker, and so are truly sons of peace. (e) Misn. Peah. c. 1. sect. 1. T. Bab. Sabbat. fol. 127. 1. & Kiddushin. fol. 40. 1. (f) T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 6. 2. Vid. Abot. R. Nathan, c. 12. fol. 4. 2. (g) Pirke Abot. c. 1. sect. 12.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:9 This beatitude probably targeted zealots—Jewish revolutionaries who advocated the overthrow of Roman domination through violent resistance. The Messiah’s Kingdom would be established by other means. • those who work for peace: Jesus is not calling for pacifism per se, but rather a different kind of activism. • Peace is the absence of enmity and the presence of God’s salvation (Lev 26:6; 1 Sam 16:4-5; Isa 9:5-6; Zech 8:16; Eph 2:14; Col 1:20). Jesus’ disciples are to work for justice, righteousness, reconciliation, and mercy as the effects of God’s salvation through Christ (Matt 5:43-47; Luke 10:5-6).