Before we jump into the story of the sand builders, I want us to consider what Jesus was saying before He started talking about building. Looking back at verses 21-23 in Matthew 7, He declares who is in His Kingdom and who is not. First He says, Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall … Continue reading The Saga of Sand Builders and Closing Remarks
Sermon on the Mount
The Golden Rule
Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12 Jesus just got through telling those gathered on the mount to ask, seek, and knock until they received from God the things they needed to do His will. But He adds this instruction. He tells … Continue reading The Golden Rule
Judge Not
There are few verses quoted more frequently than the opening ones of Matthew 7. These same verses are also less understood by those who are so ready to attack others whom they believe are not practicing them correctly. Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the … Continue reading Judge Not
What Do You Value Part 2
As we continue in Matthew 6, we find this scripture nestled in with counsel about what we value. What do our eyes have to do with what we value? Let’s see. “The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your … Continue reading What Do You Value Part 2
What Do You Value? Part 1
Before we start, let’s consider how Jesus began this sermon. He began with the beatitudes, describing the character traits of those who are part of His kingdom. The Jews were looking for a Messiah that would bring material blessings to their country. Rome had drained them dry of all their resources. They were hoping for … Continue reading What Do You Value? Part 1
Fasting, a Forgotten Key to Deliverance
When was the last sermon you heard about fasting? When was the last time you heard someone say they fasted from food? Fasting was a common practice in Jesus’ day. God commanded fast for one day out of the year, on Yom Kippur-The Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:19-31). We have several accounts of fasting in … Continue reading Fasting, a Forgotten Key to Deliverance
Petitions and Praise in the Lord’s Prayer
All we have comes from God. Therefore, it is to Him we return, when we stand in need. We have covered the introduction to this prayer and have addressed Who we are speaking to. Now we will look at more of the petitions Jesus suggests. Give us this day our daily bread. Matthew 6:11 This request … Continue reading Petitions and Praise in the Lord’s Prayer
Our Father Who Art in Heaven, Hallowed be Your Name
Let’s look at the beginning of this prayer. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Matthew 6:9 KJV In Jewish culture, people do almost everything in community. They do very little as individuals. We’ve revered Daniel for identifying with the sins of Israel in Daniel 9. Still, … Continue reading Our Father Who Art in Heaven, Hallowed be Your Name
The Laws of Giving in the Kingdom of God
If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41 And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42 Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. Matthew 5:40-42 2 Corinthians 9:7 says, "God loves a … Continue reading The Laws of Giving in the Kingdom of God
The Matter of Oaths and Swearing – What Does Jesus Say?
Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.’ 34 But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is God’s throne; 35 nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the … Continue reading The Matter of Oaths and Swearing – What Does Jesus Say?
Hear God's Heart 