Those Who Crave Righteousness

Now that we know the significance of the Tabernacle (see previous series), we can see the power in Jesus tearing the curtain that locked away His holiness. When He died, not just the High Priest or even just the Jews, but everyone was instantly given equal opprotunity to live in the presence of God. "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Matthew 5:3-12 Here we find the decription Jesus gave of the people who live behind the curtain. Join us in this series as we press on into this new kind of living. Speaker: John Pryor, Senior Minister Notes: Biblically speaking, wisdom means doing the best possible thing based on facts, logic, God's will, and strategy—and there is no wisdom without action. Matthew 7:24 Righteousness produces fruitfulness; the righteous do what God says is right. Matthew 5:6 The pure in heart are 100% committed, and they see more and more of God as they learn and grow. Matthew 5:8 “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” James 1:19-20 (NLT) Empathy enables change; judgment prevents it... Matthew 7:2 & 16:27 ...but true righteousness means constantly aiming for God's targets. You must constantly remember who you are. 1 Chronicles 15:2-7, James 4:6 Intercession and Interposition are the first steps toward accomplishing the Great Commission. We must pray, then team up and lead by example. Matthew 28:18-20, Ephesians 4:12-13 Dr. Stephen Covey says to begin with the end in mind, then make strategic changes in your habits and relationships. What ends has God laid on your heart? Where will you begin?