· Matthew 7:24-27 - 24 “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat
Points
-Never build until you know what will knock down what you build
-Storms are certain; preparation is optional
- “Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice…”
-Religion doesn’t equal relationship with God.
- “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:3.
-Do what Jesus says.
-Hate - 1-------------------------50--------------------100 – Love
-Doing what Jesus says prepares your character for the storm that will come.
-What destroys a friendship? Betrayal.
-Friendship is best when promises are kept.
-Proverbs 17:17 – A friend loves at all times and a brother is born for a time of adversity.
-What destroys family relationships? Me not we
-Criticism
-Contempt
-Defensiveness
-Stonewalling
-Families are best when “we” includes Jesus.
-“Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.” – Ephesians 5:21
-“What is the will of my Heavenly Father in this family?”
-What destroys your relationship with God? Indifference.
-Matthew 6:33 – Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you as well.
-“The Lord is my ROCK.”
-Whoever hears these words of mine and does them is like a man who builds his house on the rock
-Where are you building – Rock or Sand?
Group Discussion Questions
Starter: In your experience, what happens to people who always seek the easy way?
Go Deeper
1. Read Matthew 7:24-27
2. Tell about someone you know who built their lives on the words of Jesus. What was their life like?
3. Tell about someone you know who heard the words of Jesus but didn’t do them? How did their lives turn out?
4. What are the common storm you think everyone will face?
5. If someone were to ask you “How do I build my life on the rock?” what would you tell them?
6. Notice the connection between v. 27 and vv. 22-23. Why do you think Jesus highlight this danger?
