18. These people had come to listen to Jesus and to be healed of their diseases. All who were troubled by evil spirits were also healed.
19. Everyone was trying to touch Jesus, because power was going out from him and healing them all.
20. Jesus looked at his disciples and said:God will bless you peoplewho are poor.His kingdom belongs to you!
21. God will blessyou hungry people.You will have plentyto eat!God will bless you peoplewho are crying.You will laugh!
22. God will bless you when others hate you and won't have anything to do with you. God will bless you when people insult you and say cruel things about you, all because you are a follower of the Son of Man.
23. Long ago your own people did these same things to the prophets. So when this happens to you, be happy and jump for joy! You will have a great reward in heaven.
24. But you rich peopleare in for trouble.You have already hadan easy life!
25. You well-fed peopleare in for trouble.You will go hungry!You peoplewho are laughing noware in for trouble.You are going to cryand weep!
26. You are in for trouble when everyone says good things about you. That is what your own people said about those prophets who told lies.
27. This is what I say to all who will listen to me:Love your enemies, and be good to everyone who hates you.
28. Ask God to bless anyone who curses you, and pray for everyone who is cruel to you.
29. If someone slaps you on one cheek, don't stop that person from slapping you on the other cheek. If someone wants to take your coat, don't try to keep back your shirt.
30. Give to everyone who asks and don't ask people to return what they have taken from you.
31. Treat others just as you want to be treated.
32. If you love only someone who loves you, will God praise you for that? Even sinners love people who love them.