Blessed are the Merciful

Word

Matthew 5:7, Matthew 18: 21 - 35, Luke 10:25-37
How would you define mercy? Is there a difference between grace and mercy? What is the difference?
- Working definitions:
  - Grace: receiving a gift that we don’t deserve
  - Mercy: not receiving what we deserve. Mercy is purposefully not doing something, or active compassion.
What do we learn about mercy from the unmerciful servant?
What do we learn about mercy from the story of the good Samaritan?
What do we learn about God’s heart?

World

If the beatitude of Jesus is “show mercy” what would the beatitude of the world be?
Who does the world refuse to show mercy to? What types of actions are “unforgivable”? Think basic.

Has anyone ever done something to you, that “deserved” a retaliation? Share examples.
Has there been a time in your life when you “deserved” punishment and received mercy instead? Share examples.
How does our study of God’s merciful heart change the way we view our relationships today?
Who in your life has “done you dirty”? How are you tempted to respond? Remember, the human condition will naturally lean toward a lack of compassion. How does our study today change your mind?
Fill in the following statement:

Knowing that God is _____________ shows me that I am ______________.