Matthew 5:7

Merciful. Greek eleemones, “pitiful,” “merciful,” “compassionate.” Christ is called a “merciful and faithful high priest” (Heb. 2:17). The English “eleemosynary,” relating to charity, derives from this word. Mercy here is an active virtue toward others, valuable only when expressed in deeds. In Matt. 25:31-46, deeds of mercy are the test for admission to the kingdom. James includes mercy in “pure religion” (James 1:27). Micah 6:8 summarizes man’s obligation as “to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly” with God, paralleling Christ’s emphasis on humility and mercy, which align with the two great commandments (Matt. 22:40).

Obtain mercy. This applies now and at judgment, from men and God. The golden rule (Matt. 7:12) governs treatment of others and the treatment received. Cruel, hardhearted people rarely receive kindness, while merciful people often find kindness returned.