Deeper Discussion

(5–8 minutes, easy set-up)
Students will discuss ways to live out the Beatitudes in their daily lives.

(5–8 minutes, easy set-up)

Explain that just as many influences were at play in Israel’s world in Jesus’ time, many things influence us in our world today. Ask students to name some of those influences. In light of all these influences, ask:

What would the world look like if more Christians lived out the Beatitudes?
In what way will the Beatitudes change the way you live now?
What influences will make change difficult? What will make change easy?
What particular Beatitudes do you need to ask God to develop in you today?

Explain that it is often easy to recognize sin in our lives, repent, and then go on without considering the next step God has planned for us. But each part of the Beatitudes is important. God calls us to take the next step by surrendering to His plan, hungering for His righteousness, and loving others as He loves us.