I have 'gleaned' much from the many ideas penned with reference to 'The Sermon on the Mount'. I pondered, prayed, prepared and preached my path to the present. I admire Mahatma Ghandi's declaration that the Sermon contains the unadulterated message of Jesus.

I am also convinced that the whole gospel story is much larger. Jesus' message is that the Kingdom has come to humanity and been fulfilled in his words and actions. This sermon is for those who have received the word of the kingdom and know its benefit of salvation.

To understand pairs of 'oxymoronic' phrases we need to recognise Jesus' very deliberate action. Separating himself from the crowds he sits, taking the rabbinic position of teacher. His disciples gather 

around, he teaches them saying ... (Mt5.1 ff) The sermon is a real example of 'preaching to the converted'. For the most part, each beatitude seems to build on its predecessor assuming that the listeners are firstly described, then encouraged. So: congratulations: to you, poor in spirit ones, yours is the kingdom of heaven.

Then: congratulations, you mourners, you will be comforted. And: congratulations, to you who are meek, you shall inherit the earth.

The pattern, thus begun (vs 3-5) where the poor in spirit, mourn, are meek, and subsequently promised, the kingdom, comfort and the earth as an inheritance, continues through to Jesus' guarantee and call (vs 13ff) We are salt and light. We share the Good Life!

John Kidson October 2020.