Matthew 7

Chapter 7 ends the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus begins the chapter by telling us not to judge. The bottom line is that we are not worthy to judge. Only God is in the place to judge someone else. There are a couple of reasons that we are not to judge. One, we all have issues (planks in our eye) in our life that could be judged as well. Secondly, we are not to be critical of another but we are to help that person (remove the speck). Our culture is so critical and judgmental that it is easy to fall in that trap. But one who is seeking first the kingdom will have a humble and servant-like spirit rather than a know-it-all and negative spirit.

Next Jesus compares the relationship we have to God as that of a child to a loving father. He tells us to ask, seek and knock, and our father will hear us and answer us.

Jesus then encourages us to take the narrow gate. This gate is so narrow that there is no room for things like our ego, past baggage, and skepticism.

Jesus then tells us to be fruit inspectors. At first, this doesn’t seem to line up with not being judgmental. But this is far from true. Just because we don’t try to point out others faults in negative ways doesn’t mean we adopt teachings and ways from those who are not truly representing God. Many false prophets and teachers outwardly try to speak for God, but inwardly Jesus calls them “ferocious wolves.” Jesus told us to look at their fruit. If there is no evidence in their lives that they are living the spirit-filled life then their teaching should not be paid attention too. Jesus warns that not everyone who speaks in the Lord’s name is from Him. Jesus makes it plain that either we build our teaching on His foundation, or it will fail when the storms come along.

“Father, help us to base our lives on Jesus. Take away our critical spirit while at the same time being wise enough not to be duped by false preachers and philosophies. I pray this in the precious name of Jesus. Amen.”