The Sermon.2: Turning the World Upside Down
David Turner
drdavidlturner.com ? Scholar in Residence for New Testament Studies at Puritan Reformed Theological Seminary
The Beatitudes (Matt 5:3-12) are a tough sell. No one but Jesus would begin a sermon with counter-intuitive values that turn the world upside down.
Following Jesus means weeping as others laugh, longing for real shalom as others endorse the status quo, and being marginalized as others flourish. But it’s worth it when you consider the radical reversal of fortunes that will occur when God blows the whistle and ends the game. Jesus’ followers already enjoy the blessedness of his Lordship during difficult times, but when the game is over, the worship party really begins.
When you think about it, the Beatitudes are autobiographical—Jesus' life embodies and demonstrates every one of them. He pursued God’s Kingdom with all his being, all the way to the cross. And that’s exactly what he expects of us.
I hope you find this new post on the Beatitudes at drdavidlturner.com to be especially meaningful as the Passion Week and Easter draw near.
All the best,
David
drdavidlturner.com
