Gathering 201: “Blessed are the…Poor in Spirit”

A new sermon series begins! Join us as we begin a fascinating study of the eight Beatitudes or blessings recounted by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount and depicted through the eight new paintings by artist, Julie Frye, recently installed on the south wall of our worship space. This week we'll explore the first of eight Beatitudes, "Blessed are the poor in spirit."  
 

What exactly makes a person "poor"? Is it a lack of humility before God, a scarcity of spirituality, or to literally be financially bereft? The gospels of Matthew and Luke differ from one another textually by two specific words, in spirit. Luke's text excludes this modifier altogether. Why? Today, Pastor Tony Minear, Ph.D. explores the evolution of what it means to be “poor” from the time of Jesus to today. Listen and learn how behavior is governed and discover the shift that has occurred from a culture of guilt—where self-worth is derived internally—to a culture of shame in which self-worth comes from external validation. If you think that social media is completely to blame, think again. We all need a “North Star.” When you reflect on your own shortcomings or limitations, which version of "poor" resonates and guides you?   
 

Recorded live at Beatitudes Church in Phoenix, AZ on 10/03/21  

Preaching: Rev. Tony Minear, Ph.D.  

Scripture: James 2:5-6 

Scripture Reader: Janelle Tapphorn  
 

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