Matthew 5:8
Memory Verse
Happy are the clean in heart because they will discern God (Matthew 5:8).
In three woes to the Pharisees, Jesus calls them out for their hypocrisy. Jesus uses washing a cup as an example. They clean the outside of the cup while ignoring what is inside. This is the same in their life. Their focus is on their appearance while inside is extortion and self-indulgence. They should first clean the inside (Matthew 23:25–26).
In Matthew 5:8, Jesus explains to the Jews who came out to hear the Messiah speak that it is the clean in heart that will see God. Although some translations opt to use “pure”, the Greek word for pure refers to unmixed. In Matthew 5:8, the Greek word “katharos” is used. It refers to being clean, both physically and ceremonially.
The one who is clean of heart has not lifted up his soul to idols, nor sworn deceitfully (Psalm 24:4). Since Jesus is speaking of the time in the Tribulation Period when the Jews will be in the wilderness because the man of lawlessness has broken his seven-year peace treaty, these will be the Jews who did not bow down to his idols.
Those who are not defiled by idols in their hearts will in the future discern God. This word “see” does not describe the physical sight, but comprehension with the mind. Because a Christian has all things pertaining to life and godliness, he is able to discern God now. The one who discerns God ceases from habitual sin (1 John 3:6).
As for Christians, they are to love other saints fervently with a clean heart because they are born from above from an incorruptible seed (1 Peter 1:22). The purpose of the commandment for the Church is to love from a clean heart with a good conscience (1 Timothy 1:5). Thus, the grace believer is to flee youthful strong desires and pursue righteousness out from a clean heart (2 Timothy 2:22).
Do not confuse doctrine with teaching. The Sermon on the Mount is directed at the Jews. Therefore, it is only teaching for the Church, not doctrine. The Church has something better, built upon better promises; thus, attempting to apply the Sermon on the Mount requires allegorization. Allegorization changes Scripture to mean what you want rather than what it says.