"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" (Mt 7:24, NIV). "...and does them" (ESV). "...and acts on them" (NASB, HCSB). "...and follows it" (NLT).
The Sermon on the Mount is probably the most famous of all the teachings of Christ. (A General Introduction by Martyn Lloyd-Jones). The theme is that of "life in the kingdom of heaven." It is an overview of the privileges and expectations of such a truly blessed life. Mt 7:24-27 (Lk 6:46-49) is the conclusion of the Sermon on The Mount.
- What are "these words of mine" that Scripture encourages people to take to heart (2 Tim 3:16; 2 Pet 1:20-21; Ps 1:2; 119:97)?
- Why do you think Jesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) with the wise and foolish builders (7:24-27; Lk 6:46-49)? What is the contrast? How might they appear similar? Why can't they be distinguished? When does the difference become apparent? What does this suggest about those who profess to be Christians and believers?
- Since "hears these words" is similar in both groups (24a, 26a), what is the difference? What does this mean (7:24a; Jas 1:22; 2:20-22; Isa 8:16, 20)? What would be the result of doing so (Mt 13:23; Mk 4:20; Lk 8:15)?
- How is this "like a wise man who built his house on the rock" (7:24b-25; Ps 62:2; 112:6-8; 20:7; Isa 28:16; Jn 16:33)?
- What is the problem of the foolish person (7:26-27; Isa 6:9-10)? What usually reveals one's true colors?
- Do you do what you say? Do you do what you know? How important is this?
- What "words" have been significant and instrumental in your life (Mt 6:33; 11:29; Lk 9:23; Phil 4:5; Ac 20:24, 27)?
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