This sermon concludes an 18-week series on Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount, focusing on three illustrations from Matthew 7 that emphasize the importance of choice in following Christ. Pastor Anthony Caples explains that Jesus presents believers with clear choices: the narrow gate versus the wide gate (with Jesus being the narrow gate leading to life), discerning between good and bad spiritual fruit to identify false prophets, and building one’s life foundation on the solid rock of Jesus rather than the shifting sand of self-reliance. Pastor Anthony emphasizes that there is no neutral path or third option – indecision itself is a choice that leads away from salvation. He concludes by urging listeners to trust in Jesus as their firm foundation, noting that worldly accomplishments and wealth cannot save us during life’s inevitable storms, but a relationship with Christ provides eternal security.
Reflection Questions
- What stuck out in today’s message? What did you find challenging and encouraging? Did you learn anything new?
- Read Matthew 7:13-27 . Write out a list of the 3 illustrations Jesus uses in this passage and the contrasts between them. What similarities and differences do you see between these illustrations?
- Why does Jesus choose to end the sermon this way?
- What is a prophet? Why are false prophets hard to identify? How does Jesus say in this passage we will recognize a false prophet?
- What’s the difference between doing things “in Jesus’ name” and doing the will of the Father?
- What area of your life are you tempted to choose the “easy” or “wide” path instead of the faithful one?
- Who or what are the influences in your life that help or hinder your growth in following Jesus?
- What role does community play in helping us discern truth and watch out for false prophets?
- Reflect on the different ways you have been challenged while studying the Sermon on the Mount. How can you continue to lean into these challenges and build your life on the rock? How can you invite your group members into your life to help keep you accountable?
