The Beatitudes

by Arthur W. Pink

Christ’s first preaching seems to have been summarized in one short but crucial sentence, like that of John the Baptist before "Repent for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand" (Matthew 3:2; 4:17). It is not appropriate in a brief study such as this to discuss that most interesting topic, the Kingdom of heaven—what it is and what the various periods of its development are—but these Beatitudes teach us much about those who belong to that Kingdom, and upon whom Christ pronounced its highest forms of benediction.

Genres: Christian, Theology, Nonfiction, Devotional

42 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 6, 2010

About the author

Arthur Walkington Pink was born in Nottingham, England on April 1, 1886 and became a Christian in his early 20s. Though born to Christian parents, prior to conversion he migrated into a Theosophical society (an occult gnostic group popular in England during that time), and quickly rose in prominence within their ranks. His conversion came from his father's patient admonitions from Scripture. It was Proverbs 14:12, 'there is a way which seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death,' which particularly struck his heart and compelled him to renounce Theosophy and follow Jesus.

Desiring to grow in knowledge of the Bible, Pink migrated to the United States to study at Moody Bible Institute. In 1916 he married Vera E. Russell, from Kentucky. However, he left after just two months for Colorado, then California, then Britain. From 1925 to 1928 he served in Australia, including as pastor of two congregations from 1926 to 1928, when he returned to England, and to the United States the following year. He eventually pastored churches Colorado, California, Kentucky and South Carolina.

In 1922 he started a monthly magazine entitled Studies in Scriptures which circulated among English-speaking Christians worldwide, though only to a relatively small circulation list of around 1,000.

In 1934 Pink returned to England, and within a few years turned his Christian service to writing books and pamphlets. Pink died in Stornoway, Scotland on July 15, 1952. The cause of death was anemia.

After Pink's death, his works were republished by the Banner of Truth Trust and reached a much wider audience as a result. Biographer Iain Murray observes of Pink, "the widespread circulation of his writings after his death made him one of the most influential evangelical authors in the second half of the twentieth century." His writing sparked a revival of expository preaching and focused readers' hearts on biblical living.

Reviews

[Germaine Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well put together with lots of scripture references for almost every point made. concise and to the point. Good challenging read for any professing Christian. pink is a classic. may God challenge everyone who reads it

[Earl H · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read based on reading various writings of L. Tolstoy who makes reference to AW Pink writings and others. As Tolstoy became a firm believer in the teachings of Christ's on the sermon on the mount, (SOM). In that context wanted to read some of Tolstoy's sources and the influence they had on his perspective such that the Russian Orthodox Church excommunicated from the church. I get it and now I further understand how the state attempted to censor him in writing Resurrection. Where are the Pink and Tolstoy of today that having me pondering the church position in society today and fully teaching the Word? Where are we and self in this journey in relationship to the SOM? A worthy read to give a backward look in Pink's and Tolstoy's time which sets what is in place today. Evangelical or what?

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Love the Beatitudes

I enjoyed reading The Beatitudes. If you want to learn about the Beatitudes, this is a great book to read. There is a great deal to ponder in each Beatitude, and this is one book out of many that gives you food for thought. I recommend this book to anyone and everyone who wants to become closer to our Lord and to live a Godly life and become closer to our Lord.

[Brian Thatcher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’ve been a tad obsessed with the Sermon on the Mount the last several months. I particularly have enjoyed the beatitudes. I have heard of Pink but never read him. It was okay. A bit dated. Not sure I agree with some of his ideas. But I did enjoy the conclusion where he shows how Jesus embodied all the beatitudes with his human life on earth.

[Albert L Schaubel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Beatitudes: The Christian

Mr. Pink shows that the beatitudes ARE the Christian. The first four are the workings of the Holy Spirit in awakening the believer to their spiritual bankruptcy. The last four are the life of the believer after conversion. Mr. Pink then shows that Christ is the epitome of the Beatitudes.

[Marylou · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting

The book offers a different perspective on the Beatitudes. He interprets them more as stepping stones in the development of Christian character, not as separate character traits. I am not sure I am convinced but he does a good job at explaining himself.

[michael herring · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joyful, yet humbling

A W Pink, as usual provides brilliant commentary of God's word. The author unfolds the Beatitudes in a way that exposes the richness of God's word to His children. Comforting believers as nothing else can in this sin cursed and fallen world.

[Keith Gerrard · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoy reading writings on Christian theology then A.W. Pink should be one of your authors

[Louis Diaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luis Diaz

A saved by Grace perspective on the Beatitudes. Blessed indeed are they that have had their eyes opened and are able to see their need.

[Russell George · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good book

I was blessed by reading this book and I believe you will be also. Buy it and read it. Thanks

[Jennifer Johnston · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am looking at Beatitudes in a new way

The author highlighted how the Beatitudes represent the progression of our human experience from depravity to salvation to living life in Christ.

[JoHanna M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful Study

The author taught me a lot about what the church doesn't teach concerning the Beatitudes & how to apply each to one's own life.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

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[Christopher Connell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very quick read. This text is A.W. Pink's exposition of Matthew 5:1-12. Pink offers up many good lessons and the Christian will be edified by reading.

[Davidus1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arthur Pink does an excellent job of relaying to the true Word of God, not what people want to hear but what we all need to hear.

[Shawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Beatitudes “describe the character and conduct of a Christian.” Short, but good.

[Patrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would certainly give this book a 4 1/2. This book doesn’t excellent job of explaining the theological backing of the Beatitudes. At 55 and 30+ years as a Christian, I had no clue about the real meeting and depth. This book has encouraged me to continue to study the Beatitudes. Now it’s time for a second read through of the book.

[David Roseberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally, a short concise meditation...

Finally, a short concise meditation on Jesus short concise statement. Loved it. I travel to the Holy Land all the time and stand where Jesus spoke the Beatitude. This little book is going with me next time.