Not only does Jesus challenge us in many ways in Matthew 7, this chapter also has some of the most challenging teachings in all of the New Testament!
- Judging (v1-5)
- Can Christians judge? (see 1 Corinthians 5:11-13)
- When can a Christian judge?
- Sharing the Good News (v6)
- Freely we have received, freely give?
- Called to live and proclaim NOT convert
- Prayer (v7-12)
- Ask, Seek, Knock
- Earthly father vs Heavenly Father
- Golden Rule: Therefore – God looks after us so we don’t have to be occupied with looking after ourselves and instead, can focus on others.
- Narrow Gate vs Wide Gate (v13-14)
- Road to destruction is unrestricted
- Road to life is ONLY through Jesus Christ
- False Prophets/Preachers/Christians (v15-20)
- Appear to be Christians (sheep) but are wolves
- Examine the fruits of the person (across their life, not just in church or some aspects) – Judging?
- Good tree = good fruit vs Bad tree = bad fruit
- Does Jesus know YOU? (v21-23)
- Saying you’re a Christian or a good person isn’t enough
- Do you do the will of God the Father?
- Depart from me vs Well done! (Matthew 25:21)
- Are you wise or foolish?
- Wise: listen to Jesus, build your house (life) on the Rock and weather all storms
- Foolish: ignore Jesus and do things your own way and perish in the storm
- Jesus not only has authority, He is the authority!