Christ teachings are about how people can understand the true nature of God and do His will. Believers who live by Christ's message will find it so easier to live godly and peaceful life. Christ teachings provide ways to resolve difficult issues that can arise from relationships with others. Matthew 7:24 - Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. The followings are discussed: Choose to view others wisely; Choose to trust God, and Choose to follow Christ.
Choose to View Others Wisely: While continuing his teachings Christ warned against judging others. He said, "judge not that ye be not judged". He is making it known that unfair treatment of others and unjust discrimination is ungodly and should be avoided. He is addressing a situation whereby some people make themselves relevant by tearing others down (Matthew 7:1-5). Jesus is not saying we should not be concerned about moral and spiritual condition of others. He wants us to guard against having rigid, scornful or disdainful attitude towards others. He wants us to love and intercede for people.
People can be spiritually blinded to see their own faults before condemning others for their faults. They should first recognise their needs, deal with their problems and ask for forgiveness before they can help others. Jesus was also teaching people to humble themselves, realize their sinful and broken condition while trying to help others. They should also understand truthfulness of their worship before God (verse 7) and discern someone's attitude towards the gospel.
Choose to Trust God: Jesus taught that people should put trusting God in continuous action to receive from Him. God responds to persistent faith shown by His children (Matthew 7:7-8 ). Faith that does not persevere in doubt makes it possible for believers to keep asking, seeking and knocking until God hears and answers. God can answer at the moment of asking. He can also delay or decide not to respond. He knows what is good for His people and the appropriate time to provide it.
Jesus also made it known that God is our Heavenly Father who will give us things that are good for our lives (Matthew 7:9-12). If it is possible for earthly fathers to provide good things for their children, God will provide much more for those who trust Him. when God delays His provision, we should have it in mind that He has the best reason and wouldn't want to give what can harm us.
Choose to Follow Christ: Jesus showed that our eternal destiny is chosen by us. People can choose how they want to live and where they want to be. He admonished believers to enter in at a 'strait gate' that leads to eternal life (Matthew 7:13&14). It is not just easy to enter the narrow gate; it requires efforts to do so. The gate leading to eternal destruction is broad and many enter into it. Believers should therefore decide concerning the two roads for their eternal destiny. The narrow way that leads to eternal life is in Christ, only a few people find it. Those who follow Christ's example and teachings will find the way.
Jesus warned concerning those leading others through the way of destruction; they can pretend to be good but they are evil. They can even act as the preachers of God's word, but they are not. Believers will escape being drawn into their error when they allow the Spirit of God to lead them and interpret erroneous messages. The sign of true discipleship is not by confession, profession or wonderful works. Those who obey God and do His will as revealed by Christ will be the wise people holding the sound doctrine and building on solid foundation (Matthew 7:15-27). Lesson texts: Matthew 7:1-27.
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