Matthew 5 - The Beattitudes (5:1-12) are the introductory statement to Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. They represent the steps to becoming a disciple:

1. Humility - 5:3
2. Repentance - 5:4
3. Temperance - "Meek" = strength under control - 5:5
4. Spiritual hunger / desire - 5:6
5. Mercy toward others - 5:7
6. Purity of heart - 5:8
7. Evangelism - 5:9 (spreading the gospel of peace)
8. Total surrender; even to loss of life - 5:10
9. Joy in the Lord - 5:11-12

The righteousness Jesus teaches about is more than outward religion, it is obedience from the heart - 5:20. this is exemplified by going beyond keeping the letter of the Law to keeping the spirit of the Law from the heart e.g. thoughts - 5:28; love for enemies - 5:44.

When Jesus spoke of being "perfect" He was doing so for two reasons. First, to expose the idea that anyone can be absolutely perfect in keeping the Law in their own strength. Second, to lay the groundwork for teaching "perfection" of heart intent. Paul said he wasn't "perfect" in that God was finished with His work in him (Phil. 3:13), but there were people "mature" or perfect (same word used) in terms of their heart commitment to having God complete His work in and thorugh them (Phil. 3:15).