Preparing for Sunday - Matthew 7:24-27

March 14, 2013 by Bret Capranica Preparing for Sunday

Read Matthew 7:24-27.
How does this passage relate to the previous three sections in 7:13-23?
Two men who build a house are given as examples. What is similar between the two? What is different between the two men?
In this context, what do "these words of mine" (vv 24, 26) refer to?
How does this definition of "these words of mine" define what kind of "doing" Jesus says reflects the wise man?
Summarize in one sentence what Jesus is advocating in this passage.

Make a list of areas of obedience described in the Sermon on the Mount. Remind yourself again of what kind of obedience Jesus is speaking of. Contrast the kind of obedience Jesus indicates with that of the Pharisees (5:17-48) and the hypocrites (6:1-18).
How do you see in your life the kind of kingdom obedience Jesus advocates? Where do you see that it could be stronger?
How would you know if you or another is guilty of the kind of disobedience described in verses 26-27.
What would the rain, floods, and winds represent and why? How does a proper obedience to Christ prepare someone for such difficulty?

What has your recent responses to difficulty revealed to you about the nature of your obedience to Christ? What sins should you confess to the Lord? What could do you see that you should be specifically grateful for?
How would this passage assist you in praying for others around you? How would this passage help you in talking with others about the nature of true faith? Spend a moment praying for such opportunities now.
Pray for those who will gather this Sunday to hear Christ's words in this passage. Pray that people will respond in genuine obedience to what they hear. Pray that the Holy Spirit will illuminate His word in great detail in the hearts of His peopel this Sunday.
Pray for those who will be leading our gathering - that they will do so in a way that helps us express our love for Christ and edifies the body: Dawson Bryant, music; Rob Stouffer, Elders' Prayer and Scripture reading; Bret Capranica, teaching.
Listen to and meditate on the lyrics of the songs for this Sunday, thinking through what they say about God, Christ, and the gospel. Prepare yourself to sing together with God's people.