Transformation in Matthew 7

by Hugh DeLong

What will you do with Jesus and His teaching? Reading the Sermon on the Mount (again – how many times? Many!), I am yet again struck by its personal demands. Believe in Jesus? What does that mean to you? Just the mental assent to certain facts about Jesus? Of course, those facts must be at the foundation; after all, the usual expression about Jesus is to refer to Him as Jesus Christ. Yet, even with that simple phrase, it is to be understood that there is a ‘the’ that is to be included – He is Jesus the Christ. He is the promised Messiah. He is the way, truth, and life. He has revealed how we are to relate unto God. Thus, we read the Sermon on the Mount again and try to learn what it means to follow the teaching of Jesus. This is not for the faint of heart, but it is accessible for all.

Today our reading schedule is on chapter 7 of Matthew’s account of Jesus’ preaching.

• Following Jesus requires us to inspect our very inner being – this teaching of Jesus must always be applied personally. Each of us must remove even the ‘speck’ that hinders our relationship with God.
• We must seek, that is, seek you first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Again, this demands a foundational change of my personal character. What is the most important aspect of my life?
• Treat others as you desire to be treated. This simple sentence, if applied, would change the world.
• Those three thoughts, when examined by us who would follow Jesus, prove to be too difficult for most people. We yet struggle with ‘my will’ versus God’s will! It is a narrow way – first denying self, crucifying self, and being able to say “not my will, but yours.” Even in difficult situations that prove uncomfortable, we must faithfully follow Jesus’ teaching.
• Beware of false prophets. The problem with following Jesus is that it is easy to get side-tracked into following someone’s view and teaching about what such following entails! Do not believe every teacher – I John 3:1.
• Obey! Belief in Jesus demands this very change of not only knowing but doing.
• Matthew closes this by showing us the reaction of those who heard Jesus: His teaching is with authority. As the Father would state: ‘This is my beloved Son. Hear ye Him!”

Reading this sermon brings the same conclusion that the original hearers had: Jesus’ teaching is of a higher authority – His. He is the Lord, He is the King, He is the Son of God who has all authority. Read again (and again) this sermon. How well are you making its principles the foundation of your relationship with God. In these three chapters you will be challenged to examine and change your character, your inner being, your way of relating unto God. We are never done not only reading but ‘doing’ His will.

• How has this sermon changed your life?
• What is there that you find difficult?
• What remains in your will that hinders you doing God’s will?

This is a difficult sermon.