TASK 4

Bible in Context

Bible in Context

Introduction

Bible stories and passages are essential within their context. The understanding of the context is based on the four basic pillars. Firstly one should know what is the literal meaning, then understand the historical background which will give an insight on the story that is lead by the events and how it is addressed (Martin, 2010, p.5). The grammar and the synthesis will help in gaining in depth meaning of the context. The Word of God with the correct context will make one implement the teachings in his life as well. The purpose of the study is to interpret the Mathew verses of chapter 5, verses 1-12 and the application of its teaching today. Later the poetic language and the literary genre of Isaiah chapter 7, verse 1 -10 will also be discussed.

Discussion

Matthew 5, verses 1-12

In Chapter 5 of Mathew it covers the Sermon at the mount .These verses are often referred as beatitude which is derived from the Latin term beatus which in fact means to bless. In English this term means attitude (Keener, 2009, p. 163). Here he introduces about the kingdom's fundamental truth to the Jews and Gentiles, unbelievers and believers. It reveals the characteristics of the people of the kingdom, the people who repent and those who were the righteous remnant.

We see in all beatitude that the present qualifications are given first or the desired activity or attitude expected from a follower. Then in the next line the future reward or blessing is mentioned that will be experienced by them in future kingdom of heaven on earth. Jesus Christ says that those are those characteristics are the ones which are desired and the followers shall be very happy to obtain favor from God.

In these verses of Chapter 5 of Mathews verse 1-2 Jesus saw the crowds and went up to the mountains (Martin, 2010, p. 197). These verses make it evident that Jesus witnessed the crowd and separated himself from them and sat down where his disciples approached him. In the early church even the preacher sat whereas everyone else stood while he taught. Opening his mouth indicates a formal declaration of the cardinal declaration that will be put forward and will be known as the Sermon on the Mount.

From verse3 onwards there are 8 beatitudes mentioned and each indicate an eternal promise of reward. In the primary sense blessed also means approval, here it mean that one has the approval of God.

In verse 3 some translate blessed as extremely happy and “poor in spirit”, it means the quality to identify one's spiritual destitution in a way that enables him to approach God and go to him for blessings. The people of God will be met with difficulties and their heart might despond. This tiding of blessing will animate their zeal and courage Also those who are poor is spirit are not conceited or arrogant thus must possess wealth as if they have no wealth. They will be awarded here as well ...