Beatitudes of Christ
This book explores the pursuit of happiness, God’s way. People want to be happy, but what is happiness, and how is it attained? Some seek happiness through the euphoria caused by opioids like heroin. Others pursue it through material possessions or personal accomplishments like career promotions or fame. Sadly, most find themselves disappointed because their view of what would make them happy is misguided. In fact, for many, the pursuit of happiness leads to utter misery.
In the Beatitudes, Jesus sets forth the pathway of blessing. His insight is counterintuitive. It challenges popular understandings of how to be happy and blessed. However, a life lived in this way not only brings satisfaction and fulfillment in this life, but it leads to everlasting bliss. The happiness found in the Beatitudes flows out of becoming like God in character. That can only happen in a relationship with him. In fact, human happiness is utterly impossible outside of a relationship with God. “God cannot give us happiness and peace apart from Himself, because it is not there. There is no such thing” (C. S. Lewis, Mere Christianity, 50).
Endorsements
Delving beyond the mere surface comprehension of the Beatitudes, Dr. Richard Tow skillfully leads the reader on an enriching journey, exploring each one through the lens of the entire Scripture. With meticulous cross-references to biblical narratives and apostolic wisdom, all of which are firmly anchored in the teachings of Jesus, this work offers profound insights accessible to both seasoned believers and those newly embarking on their faith journey.
—Joe Wyrostek, DMin
President, Legacy Ministry College and
Pastor, Metro Praise International Church
Here is a pastor-teacher’s theological reflection on what these truths mean for a true disciple of Jesus – one -who longs to grow in his or her faith and prepare themselves for their ultimate fulfillment when we “will be like Him” and see Him “just as He is” (1Jn 3:2). It is a joy and privilege to commend Beatitudes of Christ: Pathway of Blessing to pastor, student and lay persons who desire to know the truth of God’s Word and be transformed by it.
—James D. Hernando, PhD
Professor Emeritus of New Testament,
Assemblies of God Theological Seminary
In Beatitudes of Christ, Dr. Richard Tow brings to light what true happiness and fulfillment are all about. He provides accurate illumination into the fact that there is no true satisfaction aside from being in Christ. He also brings to light that the teaching of Jesus through the Beatitudes in the Sermon on the Mount is for believers who are on a path to an ultimate consummation where we shall be changed and eventually experience immortality.
—Keith Collins, DD
President, Generation Impact Ministries and Impact Global Fellowship