Of the two words usually translated blessed in the Greek NT. One is makarios (G3107), which is found about forty-nine times. It’s the same word our Lord used in the Beatitudes nine times (Matt. 5:3-11).
Many who preach and teach the Scriptures today say that this word simply means “happy,” and just read over it, treating it as, not so significant. This word, however, means a whole lot more. In fact, the word happy, just means “good luck” according to the Middle English hap, which comes from the Old Norse happ.
First, makarios addresses “contentedness.” The thought is that of an inner contentedness that circumstance has no affect on. Without a doubt, this is the kind of happiness and contentedness that God wishes for His children to have. A condition of happiness and welfare that does not rely on material, momentary conditions ( Phil.. 4:11-13). This, no doubt adds more depth to what our Lord meant when He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Secondly, makarios has even more depth, as Rom. 4:7-8 states “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. 4:8 Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of sin "NLT. It’s an indication of one in possession of God’s favor and being made distinct by fullness from God.” What a state of contentedness and fullness to be in!
Thirdly, makarios deepness is the same as having God’s Kingdom inside one’s heart. The recipient of this blessing is one who becomes a participant of God’s very nature through faith in Jesus Christ” ( 2 Pet. 1:4). But that’s not all, “Makarios blessing makes one independent of the world even while in the world because fulfillment comes from God rather than from favorable circumstances.” When we understand the real meaning of this magnificent word, reading the Beatitudes and many other Scripture passages takes on a whole new perspective. In other words, simple happiness is surpassed!
Review and Meditation: The Christian is looking for a “contented” hope. According to Tit. 2:13, what is it? James says two things bring “contentedness”, what are they? (James 1:12 and 25).
Be sure to see the word studies on hope and joy.
Many who preach and teach the Scriptures today say that this word simply means “happy,” and just read over it, treating it as, not so significant. This word, however, means a whole lot more. In fact, the word happy, just means “good luck” according to the Middle English hap, which comes from the Old Norse happ.
First, makarios addresses “contentedness.” The thought is that of an inner contentedness that circumstance has no affect on. Without a doubt, this is the kind of happiness and contentedness that God wishes for His children to have. A condition of happiness and welfare that does not rely on material, momentary conditions ( Phil.. 4:11-13). This, no doubt adds more depth to what our Lord meant when He said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35).
Secondly, makarios has even more depth, as Rom. 4:7-8 states “Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. 4:8 Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of sin "NLT. It’s an indication of one in possession of God’s favor and being made distinct by fullness from God.” What a state of contentedness and fullness to be in!
Thirdly, makarios deepness is the same as having God’s Kingdom inside one’s heart. The recipient of this blessing is one who becomes a participant of God’s very nature through faith in Jesus Christ” ( 2 Pet. 1:4). But that’s not all, “Makarios blessing makes one independent of the world even while in the world because fulfillment comes from God rather than from favorable circumstances.” When we understand the real meaning of this magnificent word, reading the Beatitudes and many other Scripture passages takes on a whole new perspective. In other words, simple happiness is surpassed!
Review and Meditation: The Christian is looking for a “contented” hope. According to Tit. 2:13, what is it? James says two things bring “contentedness”, what are they? (James 1:12 and 25).
Be sure to see the word studies on hope and joy.
Blessed - (Greek Makarios )
Pronounced - mak-ar’-ee-os
Pronounced - mak-ar’-ee-os
ΑΒΓΔΕΖΗΘΙΚΛΜΝΞΟΠΡΣΤΥΦΧΨΩ
"It is written, "'Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'" - Jesus Matt. 4:4
Glorifying the Triune God by creatively declaring the relevancy and practicality of His timeless Word.