Beatitudes: Hunger & Thirst
In his message, Johannes emphasizes the importance of having a deep hunger and thirst for righteousness, as stated in Matthew 5:6. He explains that true satisfaction comes from knowing the Lord Jesus Christ, rather than from worldly experiences or blessings. Johannes encourages believers to seek a closer relationship with God, highlighting that God desires a heart that is whole and yearning for Him. He references various scriptures, including Psalm 27:4 and Jeremiah 29:11, to illustrate that God reveals Himself to those who earnestly seek Him. Johannes warns against treating God as a mere provider of blessings, likening this attitude to viewing Him as a waiter. He stresses that genuine faith requires a heartfelt desire for God, which can lead to spiritual awakening and transformation. He shares examples from scripture, such as the cries of the Israelites in bondage and the persistent faith of individuals like the woman at the well, to demonstrate that God responds to those who seek Him with fervor. Ultimately, Johannes calls for a revival of passion and desire for God among believers, urging them to cultivate a heart that longs for His presence.
Outline of Main Points
- Importance of hunger and thirst for righteousness (Matthew 5:6)
- True satisfaction found in knowing Jesus Christ
- Desire for a deeper relationship with God
- God reveals Himself to those who seek Him earnestly (Jeremiah 29:11)
- Warning against treating God as a mere provider of blessings
- Examples of persistent faith in scripture
- Call for revival of passion and desire for God
6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
15 As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness.
4 One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.
11 For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.
12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.
