A physical structure is no stronger than its foundation. We are reminded of this fact when earthquakes shake the ground and buildings fall. This principle also applies to our lives. Jesus taught in Matthew 7:24-25,
Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock; and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. But everyone who hears these saying of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand; and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.
Jesus was finishing His great Sermon on the Mount, recorded in Matthew 5-7. These chapters record a powerful summary of the core teachings of Christianity. Jesus gave essential guidance and commandments that can be followed to result in Godly lives that assure our spiritual well-being and obedience to God. Paul referred to the teaching of Christ as a foundation for life as he stated in 1 Corinthians 3:11, “For other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” Some key elements of this great sermon that create a foundation of rock include the following.
- Matthew 5:1-12. The meek, humble, righteous, pure in heart, merciful, peacemaker and servant of God that is persecuted for righteousness’ sake is blessed and favored.
- Matthew 5:21-30. Sin comes from our hearts, and behavior reflects our hearts.
- Matthew 6:5-13. God will answer the prayers of His children.
- Matthew 6:19-21. One’s treasure in life is not kept on earth, but rather, it is accumulating in heaven.
- Matthew 6:33-34. We must seek first the kingdom of heaven and Christ’s righteousness. As we do this, God will provide for our every need.
- Matthew 7:13-14. The way to heaven is narrow and difficult, and the way to eternal destruction is wide and easy.
- Matthew 7:15-20. Beware of false teachers.
- Matthew 7:21-23. Only those who know and do the Father’s will are saved.
There are many other teachings in this sermon. Read and study every verse of Matthew 5-7 to learn how to build your life on a solid foundation. The world is populated by billions of people with failing lives. The ultimate failure is death while outside of the body of Christ. Upon what kind of foundation is your life built?
