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Becoming Like Jesus Bible Study Guide plus Streaming Video: A Bible Study on the Beatitudes
When Jesus spoke the "blessed are . . ." Beatitudes, He didn't say they were a formula for happiness or the keys to the kingdom. Instead, they were a declaration from God about us as His followers in spite of our weaknesses and failures. The Christian life is not a series of mountaintop, blissful, nothing-ever-goes-wrong moments but a series of ups and does the Holy Spirit uses to shape us into Christ.
In Becoming Like Jesus, bestselling author and pastor Matt Chandler will guide you through one of the more famous passages of Scripture—Jesus' Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1–12). While you may read these "blessed are . . ." statements and think, Once I get it all together, then I'll feel blessed—that's not actually what Jesus said. When introducing the Beatitudes, Jesus didn't describe eight different kinds of people but eight qualities of the same person.
These Beatitudes are not what make you a Christian. But if you are a Christian, over time Jesus is going to turn you more and more into this kind of person that reflects God's kingdom. You can't just decide to be poor in spirit. You can't just determine that you'll be meek or disciplined enough to be pure in heart. No, as you seek a deeper and more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ through the Gospels, He will develop in you a new way of living that helps
understand how desperately you need God,mourn not only your sins but the state of the world,humbly serve the Lord instead of build your own kingdom,hunger and thirst for right relationships with God and others,show mercy because of how merciful Jesus has been to you,seek purity by living with integrity and being transparent,share the peace and good news of Jesus wherever you go, andremember your heavenly reward when enduring persecution on earth.Wherever you are in your journey, whatever your stage in life, and regardless of whether the Beatitudes are challenging right now, you can be sure God is shaping you into someone who looks like Jesus. Don't be discouraged, because every high and low, every victory and loss, is being used by God to move you forward.
This study guide
Individual access to five streaming video sessionsVideo notes and a comprehensive structure for group discussion timePersonal study for deeper reflection between sessionsA guide to best practices for leading a groupStreaming video access included. Access code subject to expiration after 12/31/2030. Code may be redeemed only by the recipient of this package. Code may not be transferred or sold separately from this package. Internet connection required. Void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Additional offer details inside.
In Becoming Like Jesus, bestselling author and pastor Matt Chandler will guide you through one of the more famous passages of Scripture—Jesus' Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1–12). While you may read these "blessed are . . ." statements and think, Once I get it all together, then I'll feel blessed—that's not actually what Jesus said. When introducing the Beatitudes, Jesus didn't describe eight different kinds of people but eight qualities of the same person.
These Beatitudes are not what make you a Christian. But if you are a Christian, over time Jesus is going to turn you more and more into this kind of person that reflects God's kingdom. You can't just decide to be poor in spirit. You can't just determine that you'll be meek or disciplined enough to be pure in heart. No, as you seek a deeper and more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ through the Gospels, He will develop in you a new way of living that helps
understand how desperately you need God,mourn not only your sins but the state of the world,humbly serve the Lord instead of build your own kingdom,hunger and thirst for right relationships with God and others,show mercy because of how merciful Jesus has been to you,seek purity by living with integrity and being transparent,share the peace and good news of Jesus wherever you go, andremember your heavenly reward when enduring persecution on earth.Wherever you are in your journey, whatever your stage in life, and regardless of whether the Beatitudes are challenging right now, you can be sure God is shaping you into someone who looks like Jesus. Don't be discouraged, because every high and low, every victory and loss, is being used by God to move you forward.
This study guide
Individual access to five streaming video sessionsVideo notes and a comprehensive structure for group discussion timePersonal study for deeper reflection between sessionsA guide to best practices for leading a groupStreaming video access included. Access code subject to expiration after 12/31/2030. Code may be redeemed only by the recipient of this package. Code may not be transferred or sold separately from this package. Internet connection required. Void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Additional offer details inside.
160 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2026
About the author
Matt Chandler
148 books781 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Matt Chandler is the lead pastor of The Village Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas metroplex of over 10,000 people. His sermons are among the topselling (free) podcasts on itunes and he speaks at conferences worldwide. Prior to accepting the pastorate at The Village, Matt had a vibrant itinerant ministry for over ten years where he spoke to hundreds of thousands of people in America and abroad about the glory of God and beauty of Jesus. He lives in Texas with his wife, Lauren, and their three children: Audrey, Reid and Norah.
Matt Chandler is the lead pastor of The Village Church, a multi-campus church in the Dallas metroplex of over 10,000 people. His sermons are among the topselling (free) podcasts on itunes and he speaks at conferences worldwide. Prior to accepting the pastorate at The Village, Matt had a vibrant itinerant ministry for over ten years where he spoke to hundreds of thousands of people in America and abroad about the glory of God and beauty of Jesus. He lives in Texas with his wife, Lauren, and their three children: Audrey, Reid and Norah.
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
April 28, 2026
If you’ve ever felt like your spiritual life is two steps forward and one step back, this six-week study on the Beatitudes is going to feel like a breath of fresh air.
Matt Chandler helps ditch the idea that following Jesus is a perfect, uninterrupted climb. Instead, it gets incredibly honest about the highs, lows, and the messy relearning phases of growing in faith.
Chandler kicks things off by comparing our spiritual growth to a 'horizontal coil.' This helpfully reframes the approach from perfection to grace filled obedience. This makes topics like poverty of spirit, grief, and persecution feel much more approachable.
The format itself is incredibly well-paced. The videos are under 20 minutes each, which is the absolute sweet spot. It gives you enough substance to chew on without eating up the whole meeting time, leaving plenty of room for discussion and conversation.
But what really makes this study work is that it doesn't leave big concepts—like meekness, mercy, and peacemaking—stuck in the clouds. The study guide helps bringing the Beatitudes down to earth with journaling prompts and real-life exercises you can actually apply on a Tuesday at work, not just on a Sunday. It’s also clearly built with community in mind. There’s a solid Leader’s Guide tucked in the back, making it super easy for anyone to step up and facilitate a small group without feeling overwhelmed.
Overall, this is a fantastic, grounded resource. It’s scripturally rich but completely rooted in the reality of everyday life. If your small group is looking for something that encourages genuine life change rather than just filling out blanks in a workbook, this is highly recommended.
Matt Chandler helps ditch the idea that following Jesus is a perfect, uninterrupted climb. Instead, it gets incredibly honest about the highs, lows, and the messy relearning phases of growing in faith.
Chandler kicks things off by comparing our spiritual growth to a 'horizontal coil.' This helpfully reframes the approach from perfection to grace filled obedience. This makes topics like poverty of spirit, grief, and persecution feel much more approachable.
The format itself is incredibly well-paced. The videos are under 20 minutes each, which is the absolute sweet spot. It gives you enough substance to chew on without eating up the whole meeting time, leaving plenty of room for discussion and conversation.
But what really makes this study work is that it doesn't leave big concepts—like meekness, mercy, and peacemaking—stuck in the clouds. The study guide helps bringing the Beatitudes down to earth with journaling prompts and real-life exercises you can actually apply on a Tuesday at work, not just on a Sunday. It’s also clearly built with community in mind. There’s a solid Leader’s Guide tucked in the back, making it super easy for anyone to step up and facilitate a small group without feeling overwhelmed.
Overall, this is a fantastic, grounded resource. It’s scripturally rich but completely rooted in the reality of everyday life. If your small group is looking for something that encourages genuine life change rather than just filling out blanks in a workbook, this is highly recommended.
May 4, 2026
Becoming Like Jesus Bible Study Guide plus Streaming Video: A Bible Study on the Beatitudes by Matt Chandler is a practical, gospel-centered resource for small groups or individuals seeking deeper spiritual formation. It focuses on Jesus’ teachings in Matthew 5:1–12.
Content and ApproachMatt Chandler, a well-known pastor, author, and speaker, guides participants through the Beatitudes not as a checklist for earning blessings or a description of eight different “types” of people, but as eight interconnected qualities that the Holy Spirit forms in one person over time. The study emphasizes progressive sanctification: the Christian life involves highs and lows, victories and struggles, rather than a straight upward trajectory of constant improvement.
watch.studygateway.com
Key themes include:Poverty in spirit (dependence on God)
Mourning (godly sorrow over sin and brokenness)
-Meekness
-Hunger and thirst for righteousness
-Mercy
-Purity of heart
-Peacemaking
-Perseverance amid persecution
Chandler stresses that these are not self-improvement goals achieved through willpower. They develop as believers pursue a deeper relationship with Christ, rely on the Holy Spirit, and walk in community. The material counters performance-based Christianity by reminding readers that Jesus shapes imperfect people through real life, not despite it.
Format and UsabilityThe study guide includes:Personal study sections for reflection between sessions
Video notes
Group discussion guides
Access to streaming video sessions (typically six sessions)
The videos feature Chandler’s engaging, conversational teaching style—biblical, honest about struggles, and encouraging without being overly sentimental. It works well for small groups, church classes, or individual use, with clear structure for leaders.
StrengthsBiblical Depth with Accessibility: Chandler unpacks familiar verses freshly, connecting them to everyday life and long-term transformation.
Encouraging Realism: It offers relief for those tired of “striving” or feeling discouraged by slow growth, framing trials as part of God’s shaping process.
Holistic Focus: It covers character, dependence on grace, relationships, and endurance.
Practical for Groups: The combination of guide + video supports meaningful discussion and application.
Early reader feedback highlights its helpfulness for spiritual growth and its grounded approach to sanctification.
Potential DrawbacksSome may find the content familiar if they’ve studied the Beatitudes extensively, though Chandler’s emphasis on the non-linear journey adds freshness. The study assumes a basic Christian foundation; newcomers might benefit from pairing it with more introductory material. As with any video-based study, the experience depends partly on group dynamics.Overall RecommendationThis is a strong, edifying resource for Christians wanting to move beyond surface-level faith into genuine Christlikeness. It shines for small groups or individuals in seasons of plateau, transition, or discouragement. Chandler’s pastoral heart comes through clearly, offering hope that God is faithfully at work in the ordinary (and often messy) details of life.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars. Highly recommended for group study in 2026 and beyond. Pair it with the companion book Becoming Like Jesus for a fuller experience. It’s ideal for churches seeking a substantive but approachable series on discipleship and holiness.
Content and ApproachMatt Chandler, a well-known pastor, author, and speaker, guides participants through the Beatitudes not as a checklist for earning blessings or a description of eight different “types” of people, but as eight interconnected qualities that the Holy Spirit forms in one person over time. The study emphasizes progressive sanctification: the Christian life involves highs and lows, victories and struggles, rather than a straight upward trajectory of constant improvement.
watch.studygateway.com
Key themes include:Poverty in spirit (dependence on God)
Mourning (godly sorrow over sin and brokenness)
-Meekness
-Hunger and thirst for righteousness
-Mercy
-Purity of heart
-Peacemaking
-Perseverance amid persecution
Chandler stresses that these are not self-improvement goals achieved through willpower. They develop as believers pursue a deeper relationship with Christ, rely on the Holy Spirit, and walk in community. The material counters performance-based Christianity by reminding readers that Jesus shapes imperfect people through real life, not despite it.
Format and UsabilityThe study guide includes:Personal study sections for reflection between sessions
Video notes
Group discussion guides
Access to streaming video sessions (typically six sessions)
The videos feature Chandler’s engaging, conversational teaching style—biblical, honest about struggles, and encouraging without being overly sentimental. It works well for small groups, church classes, or individual use, with clear structure for leaders.
StrengthsBiblical Depth with Accessibility: Chandler unpacks familiar verses freshly, connecting them to everyday life and long-term transformation.
Encouraging Realism: It offers relief for those tired of “striving” or feeling discouraged by slow growth, framing trials as part of God’s shaping process.
Holistic Focus: It covers character, dependence on grace, relationships, and endurance.
Practical for Groups: The combination of guide + video supports meaningful discussion and application.
Early reader feedback highlights its helpfulness for spiritual growth and its grounded approach to sanctification.
Potential DrawbacksSome may find the content familiar if they’ve studied the Beatitudes extensively, though Chandler’s emphasis on the non-linear journey adds freshness. The study assumes a basic Christian foundation; newcomers might benefit from pairing it with more introductory material. As with any video-based study, the experience depends partly on group dynamics.Overall RecommendationThis is a strong, edifying resource for Christians wanting to move beyond surface-level faith into genuine Christlikeness. It shines for small groups or individuals in seasons of plateau, transition, or discouragement. Chandler’s pastoral heart comes through clearly, offering hope that God is faithfully at work in the ordinary (and often messy) details of life.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars. Highly recommended for group study in 2026 and beyond. Pair it with the companion book Becoming Like Jesus for a fuller experience. It’s ideal for churches seeking a substantive but approachable series on discipleship and holiness.
April 28, 2026
Can ancient blessings reshape a modern heart? I went into Matt Chandler’s Becoming Like Jesus expecting to be quite knowledgeable on the subject, but I found a roadmap for spiritual formation that feels both challenging and deeply accessible.
I have the benefit of being familiar with Matt Chandler and his teachings on the Beatitudes, as my Sunday school class is just finishing another series he did on the same topic. When I saw his name on the cover, I knew I would enjoy this study; I have always appreciated Matt's teaching style and the way he explains the Beatitudes in a helpful, fresh way. Even with those high expectations, I was pleasantly surprised.
Matt does an excellent job laying out the purpose of this study, as well as the "how" and the "why." There are specific tools included to ensure the reader's success. The videos are engaging and well-produced, and the book contains an outline for each video to help the reader stay focused while viewing. The material for discussion is well-organized and draws from many different places in the Bible. This is solid biblical work, set up in an easy-to-access format. It is not "easy" work, but it is easy to understand. Additionally, the ebook format is user-friendly, with helpful instructions on how to take notes or mark choices within the digital layout. I have been leading Bible studies for 20 years, and I have never seen a study that included so many small details and tools to ensure the success of the students.
This study is most beneficial when completed alongside a small group, and Matt is transparent about that from the get-go. Spiritual formation is most effective in community. That being said, there is plenty here for someone looking to go deeper on their own. I look forward to completing the rest of this study, and I would love to do so in a group setting.
I have the benefit of being familiar with Matt Chandler and his teachings on the Beatitudes, as my Sunday school class is just finishing another series he did on the same topic. When I saw his name on the cover, I knew I would enjoy this study; I have always appreciated Matt's teaching style and the way he explains the Beatitudes in a helpful, fresh way. Even with those high expectations, I was pleasantly surprised.
Matt does an excellent job laying out the purpose of this study, as well as the "how" and the "why." There are specific tools included to ensure the reader's success. The videos are engaging and well-produced, and the book contains an outline for each video to help the reader stay focused while viewing. The material for discussion is well-organized and draws from many different places in the Bible. This is solid biblical work, set up in an easy-to-access format. It is not "easy" work, but it is easy to understand. Additionally, the ebook format is user-friendly, with helpful instructions on how to take notes or mark choices within the digital layout. I have been leading Bible studies for 20 years, and I have never seen a study that included so many small details and tools to ensure the success of the students.
This study is most beneficial when completed alongside a small group, and Matt is transparent about that from the get-go. Spiritual formation is most effective in community. That being said, there is plenty here for someone looking to go deeper on their own. I look forward to completing the rest of this study, and I would love to do so in a group setting.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Deep faith is one that is tumultuous and forever worked through on this side of heaven. This book/study offering from Pastor Matt Chandler is on point with how the Beatitudes need to be forever coiled around your soul in a continual work in progress. The highs and lows of life are not an "up and to the right" perspective that we all want at some point from our faith. Rather we will have moments, brief moments of full culmination of reaching a new degree of sanctification, but as life has it, we will forever stumble in our humanness. And that is okay! We are here to be worked on, and sanctification is a process, accept it, and live into it fully. If you are looking for deep instruction on how the Beatitudes are not a check list, but rather a living moving river that slowly breaks down the rocky soil in your soul - read this!
April 28, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Two words: Gritty and real. Through the lens of the Beatitudes, Pastor Matt gets to the heart of what the journey of sanctification really looks like in the life of the believer. Each chapter walks you through a Beatitude, exploring God’s heart for it’s meant to cultivate in us, and how they ultimately shape a truly blessed life.
In doing so, the book offers hope and encouragement, inviting the believer to lift their eyes and see how the slow, honest, often messy work Jesus does over a lifetime weaves itself into one big tapestry of the Master’s plan.
It’s a must read for anyone who wants to experience the fullness of a life lived in Christ as we are being conformed into His image!
Two words: Gritty and real. Through the lens of the Beatitudes, Pastor Matt gets to the heart of what the journey of sanctification really looks like in the life of the believer. Each chapter walks you through a Beatitude, exploring God’s heart for it’s meant to cultivate in us, and how they ultimately shape a truly blessed life.
In doing so, the book offers hope and encouragement, inviting the believer to lift their eyes and see how the slow, honest, often messy work Jesus does over a lifetime weaves itself into one big tapestry of the Master’s plan.
It’s a must read for anyone who wants to experience the fullness of a life lived in Christ as we are being conformed into His image!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book is a rare blend of depth and accessibility, offering a reading experience that is both theologically rich and genuinely engaging. It’s been a long time since I’ve encountered a work that so effectively combines spiritual formation, encouragement, and thoughtful reflection with moments of real humor. Matt Chandler brings a fresh perspective to the Beatitudes, unpacking them in ways that feel both insightful and approachable.
Instead of teaching each Beatitude in isolation, Chandler carefully shows how they build on one another, forming a cohesive vision of transformation that shapes the believer into the likeness of Jesus.
It’s a meaningful read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the Beatitudes while being encouraged along the way.
Instead of teaching each Beatitude in isolation, Chandler carefully shows how they build on one another, forming a cohesive vision of transformation that shapes the believer into the likeness of Jesus.
It’s a meaningful read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the Beatitudes while being encouraged along the way.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Matt is able to deliver a message in this book that builds the faith of the believer and their current walk with Christ whilst at the same time pushing you into a deeper relationship with Jesus and becoming more like him. I’ve found myself feeling the presence of the Holy Spirit intensifying as I dwell and try to apply the Biblical truths of the beatitudes with more passion to my day to day life. The book has been an absolute blessing and joy to read thank you Matt Chandler.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book explores in depth the Beatitudes, which if you have a church background, are familiar but confusing at times. I remember going to a Christian college as an undergraduate and memorizing the Beatitudes as part of a class. I didn't understand them though and the professor didn't explain them well enough for me to understand (no shame on the Prof). This book has helped me better understand what Jesus is calling me into and how He is shaping me to become.
April 28, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperChristian Resources for an ARC of this book!
I loved this Bible Study! Matt Chandler did a great job with this study of the Beatitudes. Nothing has changed since Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount. We still experience the same hurdles and struggles in life that the original audience experienced. This will be applicable to whatever you are going through and hopefully make you feel encouraged and changed once you have completed the study and video series!
I loved this Bible Study! Matt Chandler did a great job with this study of the Beatitudes. Nothing has changed since Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount. We still experience the same hurdles and struggles in life that the original audience experienced. This will be applicable to whatever you are going through and hopefully make you feel encouraged and changed once you have completed the study and video series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Love this book! It's an exploration of the process of becoming like Jesus through the practices of the Beatitudes. Love the idea that all of the sanctification process is like a coil with highs and lows. Such a great reminder that lows aren't for nothing but for growing. Get your copy ASAP. I know you are going to stretch and grow from this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I'm halfway through this book. Chandler does an excellent job of using the beatitudes as a framework for understanding the realities and rawness of the sactification process. Honest, transparent and biblically rich it helps the believer recognize the work of the Holy Spirit in realtime and grow in their appreciation of the messy process of removing the graveclothes and walking out of the grave.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Truth and grace. Hope and promises. Pastor Matt does it again. His teaching on the Beatitudes is profound and simple at the same time. This book is a reminder that God is not looking for this kind of people. He is making us this kind of people.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Absolutely incredible. Matt shared incredible insights from the Beatitudes that were challenging, encouraging, authentic and empowering. An incredible reminder that “Jesus didn’t come to find Beatitudes people, He came to make them.”
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Honest, straightforward and challenging!
Reminding me that the Christian life is an active not passive process
Reminding me that the Christian life is an active not passive process
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love how Pastor Matt explains concepts in a way that are applicable to everyone
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews