The Applause of Heaven - Max Lucado [49]
• Psalm 1:1-6
• Psalm 2:10-12
• Psalm 32:1-2, 5-7, 10-II
• Psalm 41:1-3
• Psalm 84:4-5, 11-12
• Psalm 94:12-13
• Psalm 112:1-9
• Proverbs 8:1-2, 32-36 (note who is "speaking")
4. Chapter I states that the Greek word Jesus used for "blessed" in the Beatitudes (makarios) is the same one used by Paul to describe God. It was used in other ancient literature to describe the "happy state of the gods above earthly sufferings" and to denote "a transcendent happiness of a life beyond care, labor and death" (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament, 4:362). What does Jesus' use of this powerful word say about the kind of happiness he is promising?
5. Read Matthew 4:23-25. What events in Jesus' ministry immediately preceded Jesus' withdrawing to the mountain? What do you think was the significance of this order of events? Why did Jesus withdraw to the mountain with his disciples at this particular time?
6. What are the best times and places for you to "go to the mountain"? What specific activities and responsibilities tend to stand in the way of your getting there?
7. Chapter I states that "you are one decision away from joy." Chapter 2 says that "the mountain is only a decision away." Specifically, what decision is this?
Session 2 • Chapters 3 & 4
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
I. How does chapter 3 interpret being "poor in spirit"? How does this compare with any previous ideas you had about what this beatitude means?
2. Luke's version of this beatitude (found in Luke 6:20, 24) omits the "in spirit" idea entirely; it simply states that "the rich" have their reward here and therefore cannot expect a reward in heaven. And Jesus tells the rich young ruler directly that "it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 19:23-24). Do you think the first beatitude applies especially to those who are poor in material possessions? If not, why does Matthew make these specific comments about material wealth? (You may find some ideas in the end notes for this chapter.)
3. List three reasons why being poor in spirit as described in these two chapters is difficult for most of us. Why do we have such a hard time admitting our own inadequacy and failures even to God and ourselves?
4. List what you consider your five greatest strengths and your five greatest weaknesses. Then examine your list in light of chapter 3. Does being poor in spirit mean denying your strengths or not trying to improve your weaknesses? Does it mean being "down on yourself "? Why or why not?
5. Is it possible to be both arrogant and insecure at the same time? What do you think are the motives behind the rich young ruler's self-justification and overachievement?
6. What is the difference between trying to achieve salvation and trying to please God? Between being poor in spirit and being a poor steward of your God-given gifts?
7. Read the following parables describing the "kingdom of heaven": Matthew 13:24-33, 44-50. What additional insight do these parables give about the nature of the "kingdom" in which the poor in spirit will live?
8. Read Matthew 16:13-20, which tells the circumstances under which Peter's name was changed and he was given the "keys to the kingdom of heaven." What elements of this account point to Peter's being poor in spirit? What does this passage tell you about the nature of the kingdom?
9. What sort of positive change would you like in your life? According to these two chapters, what would be your best strategy for such change?
Session 3 • Chapters 5 & 6
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
I After reading these two chapters, complete the sentence: "Blessed are those who mourn for." What specific kind of grief do these chapters speak of?
2. Can you think of cases in which admitting failure can become a cop-out-an excuse to stop trying? What (if any) is the difference between "mourning" and giving in to failure?
3. Most of our everyday situations aren't as dramatic as that of Anibal or Peter; the life-or-death nature