In Matthew 5 What Does It Mean To Be Poor In Spirit And How Does This Relate To Our Understanding Of Humility?
The Meaning of "Poor in Spirit" in Matthew 5
In the opening words of Jesus' famous Sermon on the Mount, we are presented with a statement that has challenged and inspired Christians for centuries:
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 5:3 ASV
What does it mean to be "poor in spirit"? And how does this teaching shape our biblical understanding of humility?
Understanding "Poor in Spirit"
The phrase "poor in spirit" does not refer to material poverty, but rather to a spiritual posture. In the original Greek, the word translated “poor” (ptōchos) conveys the idea of someone who is utterly destitute and dependent. To be poor in spirit, then, is to recognize one's complete spiritual bankruptcy before God.
This means acknowledging that, apart from God's grace, we have nothing to offer Him. The "poor in spirit" are those who do not rely on their own righteousness, achievements, or status, but humbly admit their need for God's mercy and salvation.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: A broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise. - Psalm 51:17 ASV
King David, after his sin with Bathsheba, exemplifies this attitude. He confesses his failure and throws himself upon God’s mercy, not relying on ritual or self-righteousness, but coming with a heart that is truly "poor in spirit."
Poor in Spirit and Humility
Being poor in spirit is closely linked to humility. Biblical humility is not self-deprecation or a lack of self-worth, but a right understanding of our place before God. It is the opposite of pride and self-reliance. Jesus Himself modeled this posture:
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. - Matthew 11:29 ASV
The apostle Paul also emphasized humility as the foundation of the Christian life:
Let nothing be done through faction or through vainglory, but in lowliness of mind each counting other better than himself. - Philippians 2:3 ASV
To be poor in spirit is to recognize our need for God, to lay aside all pride, and to approach Him with the humility of a child—utterly dependent, trusting, and willing to receive what only He can give.
The Promise: "Theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven"
Jesus promises that those who are poor in spirit possess the kingdom of heaven. This means that the door to God’s reign—now and for eternity—is open to those who humbly acknowledge their need for grace. Salvation is not earned by our merit, but received by faith, as Jesus taught elsewhere:
For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not of works, that no man should glory. - Ephesians 2:8 ASV
Being poor in spirit is the beginning of the gospel response: we come to God with empty hands, trusting in Christ alone for salvation and daily living.
Living Out "Poor in Spirit"
- Prayer: Approach God regularly in prayer, confessing your dependence on Him (Luke 18:13 ASV).
- Community: Treat others with gentleness and patience, recognizing your own need for grace (Colossians 3:12 ASV).
- Worship: Give God the glory for all good things, not boasting in yourself but rejoicing in His provision (1 Corinthians 1:31 ASV).
Conclusion
To be poor in spirit is to embrace true humility before God, recognizing our need and receiving His grace. It is the gateway to the blessings of the kingdom of heaven and the foundation for a life of faith.