If I may, the word used throughout these verses of Jesus' sermon is: Blessed - μακάριος (makarios), and it means "happy". I think many people make a mistake in reading this passage and do what I call "pigeonhole" certain words. Some see Jesus saying "blessed" and assume it means "heaven", but the Greek word means happy. Look at the passage:
Matthew 5:3-12
3"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
5Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
6Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
7Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
8Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
9Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.
10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.
12Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Those who come to God in meekness, not depending on their own righteousness but by the grace and mercy of God through faith will be saved.
Dear boatbums,
I am aware that blessed can be translated as “happy”.
I don’t believe that changes the essential message of the Beatitudes.
“...not depending on their own righteousness”
I believe that almost anyone who believes in the Lord Jesus and His redemptive Cross don’t depend on their own righteousness. I have never heard anyone express this thought to me or convey it to me in any overt way.
Additionally, he was not only speaking to the disciples but to the crowds of people, good to remember what the overall mindset of the people was at that time as well. Many pagan influences and practices then.