Different (12) – Matthew 7.24-29

Jesus concludes His sermon with an analogy comparing two builders.  One is the wise builder who hears Jesus’ words and puts them into practice.  That builder’s life will be like a house built on rock, able to withstand life’s storms, the pressure of persecution, and even God’s final judgement.  The other is the foolish builder who hears Jesus’ words but does not put them into practice.  That builder’s life will be like a house built on sand, destined for destruction.

This conclusion is Jesus’ way of reminding us that the true disciple is the one who doesn’t just hear God’s Word but also lives it out.  We cannot read or listen to Jesus’ sermon without examining our lives and responding in obedience.