The Beatitudes in Matthew 5:1-12 present a picture of life in the kingdom of God. Part of their purpose is to turn our worldview upside down. In a sense, the Beatitudes are “edgy” and somewhat prophetic.

Just for fun, I took some of the themes I am learning about revitalization and packaged them into a “beatitude” format. I also included some scriptures that came to mind as I was composing each beatitude.

Blessed are those churches that are broken over their sin of disobedience to the Great Commission, for God will honor their repentance with a new heart for mission. (Psalm 51:17)

Blessed are those churches that understand the times and know what they should do, for they will connect with the hurts and hopes of the generations. (1 Chronicles 12:32)

Blessed are those churches that are led by healthy missional leaders, for they will move forward into God’s future. (Psalm 78:72, 1 Corinthians 11:1)

Blessed are those churches that are hungry and thirsty for more of God, for they will overflow with joy and authenticity. (Psalm 63:1-8, Matthew 5:6)

Blessed are those churches that partner with a coach, for they will gain the wisdom that is necessary to navigate the adventurous and treacherous journey of vitality. (Proverbs 11:14, 24:3-6)

Blessed are those churches that resolve conflict constructively, for they will be tested and refined. (James 1:2-4)

Blessed are those churches that commit themselves to doing whatever it takes to reach people who are far from God, for theirs is an abundant harvest. (Luke 10:1-4, John 4:34-38)

Blessed are those churches that are open to deep meaningful change, for they will experience the new wine of the Spirit. (Matthew 9:16-17)

Blessed are those churches that confront their current reality with hope, honesty and faith, for there is no vitality without reality. (John 8:32, Revelation 2-3)

Blessed are those churches that refuse to play it safe, for God will entrust them with even more kingdom influence, authority and responsibility. (Jeremiah 7:4-11, Matthew 25:14-30)

Blessed are those churches whose dreams are bigger than their memories, for they will be more prophetic than nostalgic. (Exodus 16:1-3, Jeremiah 29:11-13)

Blessed are those churches that speak truth to the rich, give hope to the poor and seek justice for the oppressed, for their light will rise in the darkness. (Isaiah 58:1-12, 1 Timothy 6:17-19)

Blessed are those churches that worship God in spirit and in truth, for these are the churches that in which God delights. (John 4:21-24)

 

Reflections on the Journey:

1. Which of the Beatitudes speak to me most right now?
2. What is a Beatitude that I would like to write about revitalization?