Online Resource Library
Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | DownloadBob Utley You Can Understand the Bible - Matthew 5:6 - 5:6
(Show All Books | Show All Chapters)
This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
NASB (UPDATED) TEXT: Mat_5:6
6"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied."
Mat_5:6 "hunger and thirst" This is a present active participle describing the basic ongoing spiritual needs of humankind (cf. Joh_4:10-15). This metaphor reflects a kingdom person's ongoing attitude toward God (cf. Psa_42:2; Psa_63:1-5; Isa_55:1; Amo_8:11-12). This is a sign that the image of God, lost in the fall, has been restored through Christ.
NASB, NKJV,
NRSV "for righteousness"
TEV "to do what God requires"
NJB "for uprightness"
This key theological term can mean (1) a declared (legal) or imputed (banking) right standing (cf. Romans 4) or (2) a personal kingdom ethic, which is Matthew's use of the term (cf. Mat_6:1 for Synagogue usage). It involves both justification and justice; both sanctification and sanctified living! This is another example of Matthew's circumlocution, a substitution of another word or phrase for the name of God (cf. Mat_5:7-8).
hyperlink
▣ "satisfied" Literally "gorged," this term was used of fattening cattle for market.