The Sermon on the Mount, Continued
As said in a previous lesson, one of the greatest struggles we face as a church is retaining new members, keeping them in the flock after we baptize them. All this is linked with the theme of discipleship, the theme of teaching people what it means to be a follower of Christ, a citizen in His new kingdom. The Sermon on the Mount is filled with illustrations and teachings that all disciples of Christ must learn to follow. As we continue studying the sermon, ask yourself, "How can I apply these teaching in my own life? Also, how can our church better teach these things to new members, to make them better disciples of Christ?"
Read Matthew 7:1-5. What important lesson, and warning, is given there that is crucial for all disciples of Christ to learn? What does it mean not to judge?
Read Matthew 7:15-20. What message is Jesus giving to His disciples here? As you read these texts, ask yourself, What kind of fruit am I, myself, bearing?
It is one thing to profess being a follower, a student, or a disciple of Christ; it is another to be one. As we seek to make disciples, or to be good disciples ourselves, we must not forget the clear words of Jesus in the following texts.
| Read Matthew 7:24-27. Why is it important to understand what Jesus is saying there? What issues are, literally, at stake here? How do we understand these words with the other Bible promises of salvation being by faith and not by works? |
1 comment:
This has to be more than just lip service; actions speak louder than words. How can one know what you believe if you do not show it? "Faith without works is dead". It's a matter of life and death. That's how serious it is to do the will of God & not just say you believe; for "the devil believes and trembles". A true disciples does what his master wants and nothing else.
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