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Matthew 5:5 — Blessed are the meek

Meekness characterized Jesus' ministry. Matthew shows this by relating the prophecy in Isaiah 42:1-4 to the Lord Jesus. He points to Christ's faithfulness and humility, while acting with divine power. He does not strive for power or adulation. He does not break the bruised reed, nor quench the smoking flax (Isaiah 42:3). Jesus does not discourage or reject anyone, but says: "Come to Me" (Matthew 11:28 ESV). He wants to save you, heal you, and renew you in His likeness. He says, "Learn from Me, for I am meek and lowly in heart" (11:29 ESV). Jesus never exalts Himself arrogantly over others, as His opponents do. He is the exact opposite. As Jesus enters Jerusalem, Matthew 21:5 quotes Zechariah 9:9, about the humility and meekness of the coming King. He does not ride high on horseback, but on a donkey. His appearance is serene and humble. He personifies meekness.

The meek are called blessed because they will inherit the earth. Not those who think they own the world and go boldly about their business without reverence for God. The image of inheriting the earth is derived from the Israelites taking possession of the land of Canaan. Under Joshua's leadership, they trusted in God's promise and not in their own strength, and were given the land as their inheritance. Here, Jesus is referring to the future. In the age to come, those who trust in His promise will receive the earth as their possession. They are the lawful heirs. Society holds the opposite view and behaves accordingly. People often see the earth as their property and exploit it but they will lose. Those who are meek will rule on the new earth. The earth will be renewed at Jesus' return. His Bride, the Church, will possess the earth forever. A glorious future awaits you if you take Jesus at His word!