Merciful

The fifth beatitude (Matthew 5:7) presents a shift from the first four characteristics that identify the qualities necessary for one to enter the realm of salvation. Mercy belongs to and marks one who is truly saved. The error into which many fall is interpreting this state of blessedness as the necessary prerequisite for one to be shown mercy from God. Such a view is the error of merit-based salvation. There is simply no Scripture to support this notion. Rather, the verse reveals that foremost characteristic that identifies one transformed by grace.

Mercy is compassion, a spirit of kindness and benevolence shown to others in their afflictions and sufferings. It allows one to weep with those who weep. Biblical mercy is a holy disposition as contrasted with the maudlin sentimentality born of natural soft-heartedness, which often ignores the requirements of justice. Jude warns, “And have mercy on some, making a distinction” (Jude 22). No one can escape justice ultimately. Sentimentalism often seeks to sympathize with those who deserve justice and the misery attendant. True mercy is reserved for those whose just deserts have been removed by the sacrifice of another, Jesus Christ. Divine mercy first satisfies justice then extends compassion to the undeserving but graciously justified soul.

Mercy for the believer is not a feeling but a duty requiring obedience based on and demonstrating true Christian love. It is the fruit of the Spirit and is commanded in the Word. “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?” (1 John 3:17). It is evidenced by doing good.

It is the reward promised that has many confused: “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.” Old writers resolved the issue by arguing that the words must be seen in the light, not of condignity (what is deserved), but of congruity (what is given but not deserved). In other words, mercy received is not a reward deserved by the merciful. If that were so, it should read, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive justice.” That is the error of Rome. Rather, this beatitude works only within the sphere of one already saved. It is the principle that what one sows, he reaps. “Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor” (Proverbs 21:21).

There are three areas where mercy-showing believers are rewarded. First, there is an inward benefit. “A man who is kind benefits himself” (Proverbs 11:17). Second, a mercy-shower will be shown mercy by others. James shows the principle by way of contrast: “For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:13). Third, God is merciful to merciful believers in a practical way: “With the merciful you show yourself merciful; with the blameless man you show yourself blameless; with the purified you show yourself pure.” However, “with the crooked you make yourself seem tortuous” (Psalm 18:25, 26).