Backwards Blessing

Matthew 5:1-10

Light & Conversational Questions
If you had to describe “the kingdom of God” in one word, what would it be?
What’s a rule, value, or saying from culture that has always seemed “normal” but feels different when you think about it in light of faith?
When you hear the word blessed, what’s the first thing that comes to mind?
Can you think of a time when following Jesus felt different or “upside down” compared to what others around you were doing?
Do you find it easy or hard to depend on others for help? How does that shape your view of depending on God?
When you think about God’s kingdom, what image or picture comes to your mind?

Deeper Discussion Questions

Why do you think Jesus chose to begin His most famous sermon with the Beatitudes instead of a list of commands?
How does the “upside down kingdom” challenge the values we’re taught in school, work, or culture today?
What does it practically mean to be “poor in spirit”? How is that different from being weak?
In what ways can mourning over sin be a blessing?
How does meekness — strength under God’s control — look different from the world’s idea of strength?
What does it mean to hunger and thirst for righteousness in everyday life?
How do the Beatitudes show us our need for Jesus instead of a checklist of rules to follow?
Which Beatitude feels the most difficult for you to live out — and why?
How does Jesus embody all of the Beatitudes, and how does that encourage us to live them out?
What would it look like for your identity in Christ to shape the way you handle success, failure, or rejection?


Extend the Conversation Questions

Read Micah 6:8. How does it connect with the Beatitudes and the upside down kingdom?
How can we guard against building “our own kingdoms” instead of living in God’s?
In what ways can your group be peacemakers in your school, neighborhood, or workplace this week?
What would change in your life if you truly believed that blessing comes before performance, not after?
Take time to read Philippians 2:5–11. How does Jesus’ humility there help us understand the Beatitudes?