Matthew 5:7

Memory Verse

Happy are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy (Matthew 5:7).

As Jesus continues to speak to the Jews about their time in the wilderness, He states that those who show mercy will be shown mercy. This is not a Jew who decided to show mercy a few times to gain something. This one is characterized by showing mercy; he is a merciful man. Mercy is giving people relief from the effects of sin. His willingness to be merciful comes from his belief in God’s promises. He is not showing mercy to obtain mercy.

In contrast to the Jew who earns mercy by being merciful, the Christian has already obtained mercy through the washing and regeneration from the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5). Mercy, peace, and love are multiplied to the grace believer (Jude 2). Those of the Church are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a set-apart nation, and a people of a possession. This includes the Gentiles. They were not a people but are now the people of God, having obtained mercy (1 Peter 2:9–10). The Christian shows mercy because he was shown mercy.

Mercy is not earned. Jesus is not instructing the Jews to show mercy to obtain mercy. The concept of “obtain” does not exist in the original verse. It is based on the translation of the word mercy in a passive form. Thus, they are shown mercy. The Jews during the tribulation who show mercy are happy because they believe the promises of the coming Messiah. This happiness is not based on the works of righteousness they have done, but on the promises from God (Jeremiah 31:13–34). Mercy is not gained in any dispensation by the works or desires of men (Romans 9:16). It is God who chooses to show mercy upon whom He desires (Romans 9:18).