The Ninefold Path of Jesus: Hidden Wisdom of the Beatitudes

by Mark Scandrette

What if we lived in a world of abundance? In the Beatitudes, Jesus offers nine sayings that move us beyond our first instincts and instead embrace the deeper reality of the kingdom of God. They name the illusions and false beliefs that have kept us chained and imprisoned. We've learned to live from a mentality of anxiety and greed, but what if a world of abundance with solace and comfort are actually near? We've learned to live by striving, competition, and comparison, but what if we all have equal dignity and worth? Mark Scandrette shows how the Beatitudes invite us into nine new postures for life. Instead of living in fear, we can choose radical love. It's often assumed that the good life is only for the most wealthy, attractive, and powerful. Poor, sad, and suffering people are left out. But the ninefold path of the Beatitudes is for everyone. Whatever your story, whatever your struggle, wherever you find yourself, this way is available to you.

Genres: Spirituality, Christian Non Fiction, Nonfiction, Faith, Religion, Christian

176 pages, Paperback

Published July 13, 2021

About the author

Mark Scandrette is an internationally recognized expert in practical Christian spirituality. He is the founding director of ReIMAGINE: A Center for Integral Christian Practice and he is on the creative team for NINE BEATS collective. A sought after voice for creative, radical, and embodied faith practices, he frequently speaks at universities, churches and conferences nationally and internationally and also serves as adjunct faculty in the doctoral program at Fuller Theological Seminary. His most recent books include The Ninefold Path of Jesus, FREE, Practicing the Way of Jesus, and Belonging and Becoming (with Lisa Scandrette). Mark lives with his wife and their three young adult children in an old Victorian in San Francisco's Mission District.

Reviews

[Aaron White · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is important. Mark Scandrette wrests the Beatitudes out of the realm of sentimentality and theoretical abstraction. He dares to propose that Jesus meant what he said, and that what he said was meant to change everything. Jesus’ invitation into the Beatitude Life is not a nice-sounding series of phrases, but something for us to receive and to practice. Scandrette gives us a sound curriculum to posture ourselves away from the world’s fear, despair, self-centeredness and apathy; and to posture ourselves towards Jesus’ offer of trust, humility, lament, justice, compassion, peacemaking, surrender and radical love. Following in this way seems to be our best hope for living a life that is free, hopeful, and blessed.

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scandrette writes about the teachings of Jesus with a refreshing lens. The Beatitudes are brought into every day life in a practical way. I thought the beatitudes were too idealistic to follow, but now I see they are meaningful way to live.

[Hannah Devine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've heard the beatitudes so many times before reading this book, but they've never intersected with my daily life in such a tangible, practical way. Mark paints a picture of how the radical way of Jesus can revolutionize our current cultural moment, and I hope that I'll be exploring these practices for years to come.

[Brook Maturo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciate the way Mark takes Jesus’ words and creates a path of practical steps to deepen and embody these teachings. It was a new concept to think about the Beatitudes as a pathway. The illustrations of bodily postures for each of the parts of the ninefold path were especially powerful and helped the truths stick. This fresh approach is helpful to those of us who might have heard these teachings quite a bit but maybe are heart weary for a renewed vision of following Jesus in a broken world.

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful, simple reminders about how best to follow the path of Jesus.

[Tim Otto · Rating 5 out of 5]

One way to describe the problem with Christianity in the U.S.A. is that we got seduced by power and forgot about the Sermon on the Mount. Mark Scandrette has written a book to help us grapple with the foundation of the sermon—the beatitudes. Like the beatitudes themselves, the book is pithy, provocative, and practical. Mark weaves together stories, bodily exercises, and wise counsel to help us become the kind of people Jesus envisioned. I’ve been reading it as part of my morning devotions and it helps me understand Christ’s mission for all of us as I start the day.

[Ian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having attended a workshop where Mark taught some of the concepts in this book I've been hoping he'd put his knowledge and practical application of the Beatitudes into a book. And here it is.

The Sermon on the Mount is a manifesto for life with Jesus and the Beatitudes are an essential beginning to such a life. Mark has been driven by a desire to walk the way Jesus did throughout his adult life as a Christian and having spent years exploring and teaching the Ninefold Path, he has developed some really practical applications for incorporating the 9 blessings in one's daily life. This book provides the outline and the applications and is a joy to read.

Each Beatitude has its own chapter, starting with a few pages outlining the context of the blessing and then Mark moves into providing practical applications for each one. I appreciated how he summarises each chapter at the end of the book plus provides a simple daily 'examen-style' prayer prompt for each in Appendix 1.

One of the fascinating aspects of Mark's interpretations of the Beatitudes is the importance of understanding the ordering of them. There is a progression which is important especially in light of resisting evil through non-violence. Another one that I found challenging was the interpretation of 'hungering and thirsting for righteousness'. Mark replaced 'righteousness' with 'justice' which in many ways changes the context of the blessing from being a personal/internal one as I've always thought it to be to an interpersonal/external one focusing on seeking justice and goodness prevailing over evil within society. This has left me pondering and contemplating with God which I appreciate.

This is a very good book that helps believers to incorporate these nine beatitudes in one's daily life and in so doing draws us closer to Jesus as the enabler.

I was very fortunate to receive an early PDF copy of the book from the author with the assistance of the publisher with no expectation of a positive review. But I'm looking forward to my pre-ordered copy arriving on launch day.

[Ethan Morrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ninefold Path of Jesus is such a timely book, both culturally and personally. The first thing I want to mention about this book is how approachable it is. Mark's writing style is so easy to read. I struggle with reading and as a result often put away books that would otherwise be good, but Mark's writing is so personal and approachable, I couldn't stop reading (except where invited to reflect).
So much of my Christian tradition has been caught up in theological postulation: a lot of thought but very little action. But Jesus lived a life of practice, and this book offers a gentle invitation to practice.
I would not recommend that you come to this book with a plan to tackle it in one sitting, though you certainly could. Instead, take to heart the invitations Mark offers to practice and reflect. Each chapter provides multiple opportunities and prompts to journal, practice, and reflect.
In world that is still affected by a global pandemic, it couldn't be more timely to read a book that invites us to practice humility, grief, the pursuit of justice, and more, all rooted in the life of Jesus.

[Anna Freij · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to live the blessed life

This book has helped me grow more than any other that I have ever read apart from the Bible.

If you want not merely to be a believer but to actually become more like Jesus and live as He taught us to live, this book will show you how.

If you’re someone who asks, “what does that mean in practice?” or says “yes, I’d like to trust God, do justice, forgive, but how do I do it?”, this book is for you.

It speaks to the gap between our first instincts and who we long to be. Mark doesn’t just expound the beatitudes but gets to the heart of Jesus’s teaching about the good life and gives us the practical tools to play our part to live it.

[Brad Sumner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark's latest book offers practical wisdom without platitudes. It is practical but also deeply challenging and has a sense of dynamism and movement to it... like this is a story being written in the world that you want to jump in and participate. The tone is invitational and open and a wide range of people from all kinds of backgrounds and cultures and faith perspectives will find that this kind of thinking, being and doing is just what they have been looking for.

[Josh Linman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Appreciated this imaginative and practical take on some of the core teachings of Jesus. Great stories, thought provoking questions and powerful practices.

[Kim Tsai · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book brings the Beatitudes to life in new ways. It is full of practical ways to embody and enact the teachings of Jesus. It gets you thinking about what it really means to be a disciple and is full of honest human stories which inspire and encourage. The Ninefold Path of Jesus is a true gem for all those who want to discover practices and rituals which everybody can do. It teaches an intentional way of living, which goes beyond just knowing what we should do, leading us right into the how of living. Definitely recommended!

[Colin · Rating 5 out of 5]

With wit, creativity, and a deep appreciation of the way of Jesus, Mark invites us to engage with the transforming message of the Beatitudes. Far from a pious list of blessings, the Beatitudes instead invite us to imagine a new way of being in the world.

Mark illustrates each of the nine Beatitudes with simple, powerful body postures. These postures emphasize exchanging a default behavior for a new, transformed practice that leads to a thriving life for us, for those around us, and for the world.

Repeatedly asking “what if” questions, Mark equips us to see the challenge and possibility of the Beatitudes. Mark’s dialogue with the Beatitudes helps frame intentional ways of living and loving. With a conversational style, Mark serves as a coach, companion, and co-conspirator in practicing the way of Jesus.

[Véronique · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always thought that the Sermon on the Mount is not only the manifesto of the Christian faith, but also a foretaste of the Kingdom of Heaven on earth, yet so difficult to live and to put into practice in my daily life.
Thanks to Mark, sharing not only his own experience, but also his knowledge and wisdom, I finally found a way to challenge myself and take part in God's project for man kind today, now, here on Earth.
This book is a must read and particularly a "must practice" for every Christian who is lead by God to experiment the teachings of Jesus Christ in life.
Thank you Mark for leading us into the way of Jesus. May God help us all to live into the Way of trust, lament, humility, justice, compassion, right motive, peacemaking, surrender, and radical love.

[Jon Richey · Rating 5 out of 5]

In an age where we are desperately in need of genuine authenticity, Mark lays a blueprint of how we can better live out our faith in Jesus with practical ideas of what it means to love others, live generously and be agents of peace in a world that is broken and divided. Mark reminds us "Divine comfort is found in the present moment, where you are right now: 'Be still, and know that I am God.'” If anyone is like me and in need of knowing how to live a life of genuine authenticity, this book is for you!

[Karen Tullett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is gold! A fresh look at a classic teaching moment from Jesus, Mark Scandrette draws out bold truths and gives practical advise for how to engage with Jesus’s Way in our own everyday lives.
Easy to read, totally inspiring, and accessible.
10/10 would def recommend to believers and non Christians alike.

[Alex S · Rating 5 out of 5]

How does one actually embody the beautiful words of The Beatitudes? I've never read a better explanation of what the Beatitudes are really about; but the best thing about the book is how it helped me to begin living out (in some small way) the vision of life Jesus gave in this famous sermon. I really enjoyed this book. I'm also looking forward to using this in our house churches and discipleship with others. The teaching is deep and engaging, while the practices are simple and get us into action.

[Paul Dazet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book! Mark Scandrette has written a wonderful spiritual formational journey through the Beatitudes. Each chapter deals with one of the blessings and guides the reader through a series of sections:
- A shift of consciousness
- First instinct
- Reality
- New Posture
- Practices
By the end of each chapter, the reader has been invited to move forward in the way of Jesus.

The 9 Beatitudes are presented as 9 aspects of the Way of Jesus:
1. The Way of Trust (“Blessed are the poor.”)
2. The Way of Lament (“Blessed are those who mourn.”)
3. The Way of Humility (“Blessed are the meek.”)
4. The Way of Justice (“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for [justice].”)
5. The Way of Compassion (“Blessed are the merciful.”)
6. The Way of Right Motive (“Blessed are the pure in heart.”)
7. The Way of Peacemaking (“Blessed are the peacemakers.”)
8. The Way of Surrender (“Blessed are those who are [mistreated for doing good].”)
9. The Way of Radical Love (“Blessed are you when people insult you, [mistreat] you and say all kinds of evil against you because of me.”)

This excellent resource for Pastors, Teachers, and all those who want to follow the Way of Jesus.

[Lin Vanhofwegen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark Scandrette does it again! Mark has a gift for taking what has been made complex and turning it into a practical way of doing and being. The Ninefold Path gives us intentional and practical tools that lead to a transformed life. This book would make a great resource for small groups who desire a more intentional life journey.

[Michael O'Dorney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark first points out the principle that God has created nested systems that work in harmony with other systems. These systems foster a sense of thriving. And these systems, while working in harmony with each other, clash with other systems, creating disjointed rhythms. Don’t try to “simplify” the collection of systems. Live in the complexity. And, instead, focus on organized complexity.

Mark then explains the principle that this learning process is a kinesthetic one. We engage our mind, our bodies and our emotions. Like any kinesthetic learning, it is slow. Initially, (and for a while) it is a forced, mechanical, cookbook, step by step with help cards and mnemonics until you gradually absorb the learning. If you think of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and the concept of “Flow”, you will find a “sweet spot” (actually more a pathway) where the spiritual progress is challenging and rewarding enough to be motivating and internalizing, but not so heavy as to be discouraging.

https://www.roadandtrack.com/motorspo...

I remember first driving a subway train, where I had lots of memory tools to remember milepost letters (All Eagles Require Venison), I would point at signals and call them out (a Japanese gift), and close one eye and beep the horn when entering a tunnel. (Homeless wander into the tunnels and your “tunnel” eye is already accustomed to the dark.) Emotionally, you have to observe crime but not react in a way that endangers yourself or others.

All of the postures, the “hads speaking Jazz” the “charade gestures” serve to reinforce the kinesthetic learning.

Mark brings up personality type. Although I would lean toward the Myers Briggs, this book maps to the Enneagram, a far more useful instrument in the realm of spirituality. (Enneagram is something for me to learn, that will help me understand these Beatitudes better.) One should look at the Enneagram to help you understand all nine beatitudes. Don’t just study “your” (based on your Enneagram type) beatitude. But study all the beatitudes, as good or as badly as yu can. One application of this learning is the Qualification process used by Navy sailors on submarines. Each sailor has a specialty, which they know well, but to “Qual” and be considered a full submariner (and earn the coveted “Dolphins”), they go around to each department on the sub and that department teaches and quizzes them. They have to pass, not just a basic, but an intermediate level of knowledge of batteries, nuclear reactors, torpedoes, mechanical drives and propellers, computers (a few types), navigation, steering,periscopes, environment (you make your own air), and even cooking. Submarine crews are top level teams; be like them and “Qual” on all nine Beatitudes.

Churches run in cycles. There was a time when Christianity was at a peak - like the Jesus movement of the sixties and seventies. During peaks, all of the Myers Briggs types are active, but nowadays, many are in decline or absent. The Enneagram has only recently become popular, so you may have to fill in the blanks with Myers Briggs. This may help map some people into an understanding of the personality and the beatitudes. These personality tools are good to characterize ourselves, but do not use them to divide us, rather use them to unite us. Just like two different Myers Briggs types are sometimes best joined by a “bridger” type that has elements of the two different types. Think of “bridger beatitudes” that help join people characterized by two different beatitudes.

The Beatitudes: from the Amplified Bible

1 “Blessed [spiritually prosperous, happy, to be admired] are the poor in spirit [those devoid of spiritual arrogance, those who regard themselves as insignificant], for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever].

2 “Blessed [forgiven, refreshed by God’s grace] are those who mourn [over their sins and repent], for they will be comforted [when the burden of sin is lifted].

3 “Blessed [inwardly peaceful, spiritually secure, worthy of respect] are the [b]gentle [the kind-hearted, the sweet-spirited, the self-controlled], for they will inherit the earth.

4 “Blessed [joyful, nourished by God’s goodness] are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness [those who actively seek right standing with God], for they will be [completely] satisfied.

5 “Blessed [content, sheltered by God’s promises] are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

6 “Blessed [anticipating God’s presence, spiritually mature] are the pure in heart [those with integrity, moral courage, and godly character], for they will see God.

7 “Blessed [spiritually calm with life-joy in God’s favor] are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they will [express His character and] be called the sons of God.

8 “Blessed [comforted by inner peace and God’s love] are those who are persecuted for [c]doing that which is morally right, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever].

9 “Blessed [morally courageous and spiritually alive with life-joy in God’s goodness] are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil things against you because of [your association with] Me. Be glad and exceedingly joyful, for your reward in heaven is great [absolutely inexhaustible]; for in this same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Mark has taken a fairly abstract set of values, and made a practical template for each of us to plug into, in our own personal way.

[Rob Edwards · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Ninefold Path of Jesus is truly a gift!

In a world searching for a clear path for following the teachings of Jesus, Mark Scandrette has given us an understandable and practical model.

He has identified nine instincts which if allowed to control us, lead to toxic spirituality. In exploring the Beatitudes from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, Scandrette identifies nine new postures to embrace. Each chapter explores one of the Beatitudes, including our instinctual posture before exploring a new posture to embrace as we seek to become more like Christ and embrace his teachings.

Included in the book is an appendix which summarizes the Ninefold Path, along with providing questions for reflection for each of the nine postures we are seeking to embrace.

Personally, as a Pastor and Christian Educator, I've spent a lot of time through the years exploring discipleship programs. Most are complex and produce little lasting change.

The Ninefold Path of Jesus offers a clear, accessible path to lasting life change.

[Joshua Jorgensen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I love most about picking up a book that hyper-focuses on the words or teachings of Christ, is that you lose a lot of the politics and a lot of the fear-mongering. I am not a fan of hardcore Christianity--or the institution of Christianity, itself.
I picked up this book because of its Buddhist-like title (alluding to the Eightfold Path) and I was delighted to see that Mark Scandrette's ministry arose out of a conversation with a Buddhist, who also loves and adores Jesus. It was a simple question: "What do you do every day, as a Christian?"
When it comes to spiritual reading, this is a hands-on, modern, accessible gateway to the teachings of Christ, and how we can transform our consciousness and find the Kingdom of God within us.
Christians and non-Christians alike, who are seeking a higher spirituality, can find something here in this book.

[Leanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the best spiritual formation books I have read in awhile! If you grew up in the church, you are most likely familiar with Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, which contains the Beatitudes. As a church kid/Bible quizzer, I actually had a good chunk of it memorized, and it had become one of those things I could rattle off without truly thinking about it. As humility is one of the qualities described in the book, I will take the opportunity to confess that I had become rather jaded, and "been there, done that" when it comes to this particular passage of Scripture. But Scandrette does an excellent job of taking qualities like peace, justice, humility, mercy (and more!), bringing them out of the abstract and putting flesh and bone to them with a fresh look and practical application of these verses to our own life and practices to both benefit ourselves spiritually and impact the world around us. Profound wisdom without being too inaccessible for the average reader. Highly recommended!

[Michael Edgecomb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an essential book in a time when our modern day experience of Christianity has become polluted with consumerism, individualism, and mixed understandings. Jesus gave us the way to be human, the way to live the path and life He offers. This is available to every human being. Mark has a way of inviting people into this sacred way of Jesus, in a way that isn't just about talking or reading, but about practice - intentional practice that leads us further and further into the invitation of Jesus. The invitation as Mark shows, brings us to a new reality, a new way of being human. This book isn't just for Christians or Believers or whatever you want to call them, its a book for every single human being to consider what life might be possible if we shift our postures to a new way of being.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been so anticipating this book that when I first got an electronic copy, I devoured it quickly. I subsequently got a print copy. I am so looking forward to re-reading this book in print, being able to stop and savor and underline different words or phrases that stand out. The last few months the beatitudes keep coming up in different books or blogs I read or podcasts I listen to. This book provides a fresh way to look at these words and offers a way of reframing old reactions to different situations in a way that is more in line with the beatitudes.

[Johan Beukes · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’
‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ were translated into an extremely practical guide for living.
According to this book, Jesus invites us to become more human as we follow him on this Ninefold Beatitudes Path.

[KJ Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best way to learn from Mark is to hang out with him.
You will find a person who has dedicated his life to understanding and practising the way of Jesus. You'll see responses of heart, mind and action that have been marinated in Jesus' life and words. You'll see him wonder at the abundance of the world around him as he finds beauty and nourishment from things you and I (previously) would have simply walked past. Best of all you would find a perceptive guide who invites you to actually try out what Jesus said...and have your mind blown by the fullness of life that bubbles up.
That's the best way.

But if you can't hang out with Mark, then buy this book! Because, somehow, he has distilled the experience of time in his company into this short and easy to read book. It is brilliant. You'll hear stories of those who have gone ahead of you, inviting you to join them in a new way to be human. There's theology and wisdom here that you can only learn by actually. doing. something. about. what. Jesus. said.
It's not easy though - you'll be invited to take steps to follow Jesus that are almost certainly outside your comfort zone. I don't know how he does it but, even though you're out on a limb, you'll find yourself thanking God for Mark and his work!

Aaaand if you CAN hang out with Mark, you should still buy the book because you'll find a summary of the patterns and ways of living that have shaped this man.

Mark's a great mentor, and now you can carry him around in your pocket!

(Written by Jason Royce - Katy's husband!)

[Baylor Heath · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic book! Here is a prayer I wrote as I listened and reflected (even though I found there to be a similar prayer in the appendix at the end):

O Jesus, you said “blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
So Lord, lead me from scarcity mindedness into trust in your abundant providence.

You said “blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.”
So Lord, lead me from the escapist avoidance of pain into bold lament.

You said “blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.”
So Lord, lead me from oppressive competition into humility.

You said “blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.”
So Lord, lead me from apathetic passivity into just action.

You said “blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.”
So Lord, lead me from contempt into compassion.

You said “blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.”
So Lord, lead me from self-deception into right motivation.

You said “blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.”
So Lord, lead me from divisiveness into peacemaking.

You said “blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
So Lord, lead me from defensive retaliation into full surrender.

You said “blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.”
So Lord, lead me from debilitating fear into courageous love.

Amen.

[Jenny Cornfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, how I loved this important, life giving, life changing book!

I have had the privilege of learning from Mark over this last year as to how the Beatitudes are an invitation to the Jesus way of life; life lived to the full. Having taken part in the Ninefold Path Labs that he leads, I have had the opportunity to begin to put the invitations in this book into practice and can truly say that Mark's teaching, insight, experience and wisdom has been incredibly enriching and inspiring.

What it would look like if we were truly to live the Jesus way? How do we begin to look and live like Jesus? How do we follow him with the whole of our lives and how do we see something of the reality of the kingdom of God in the here, as well as the not yet? This book offers a compelling invitation to find the answers to those questions and to become the people that we long to be in Christ. 'To risk', as Mark writes,'being fully alive'.

I really could not recommend this book more highly. It is an insightful, gentle, trustworthy, honest, practical and vulnerable guide. Buy it for yourself, read it with a friend, invite more friends to join in, and together begin to live in ways that demonstrate the radical love of Jesus and change worlds.

[Jonathan King · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars might be too high, but I really connected with this book. So it's probably 4 stars + 1 star for likeability. I appreciated the size, format, artwork, practices, and summaries. It felt like a fresh take on Jesus' famous opening to the sermon on the mount, in a way that speaks the language of today. Bonhoeffer talked about the need for experimenting with "new language" for a "world come of age" and Scandrette has done that with this book I believe. A genuine help for existing disciples of Jesus but written in a way that could be quite accessible for someone exploring the claims of Christ. This is a book that is meant to be *lived*. I initially struggled with the call to put the beatitudes into practice bc I was heavily influenced by Willlard's "Divine Conspiracy" in which he claimed thr beatitudes are Jesus' ' opening statements about just what is true in his kingdom, not so much a list of things to do. And that is spot on. And yet it feels like it falls short of the invitation and challenge of Jesus to move toward these realities as his followers. So maybe it's both. Either way, I recommended this book. No doubt some will say it's too "woke" or "progressive" or something like that, but I believe Scandrette gets the heart of Jesus' scandalous proclamation.