The Sermon on the MountSample

Wise and foolish builders

Jesus concludes the Sermon on the Mount with a graphic example. Although the disciples and the people around them had listened, this didn't automatically lead to benefits. They were to act accordingly (James 1:22-25). Everything we profess to believe will be tested by the storms of life, and only what has truly become a part of our lives will endure. The foundation and construction of the house that represents our life is based on listening and putting it into practice.

Faith is important, but James reminds us that even demons believe in God (James 2:19,20). "The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." (Galatians 5:6 NIV). Our faith needs to grow by adding the practical aspects found in 2 Peter 1:5-7.

By the end of the sermon, it was obvious to all that Jesus was speaking with inherent authority that was not derived from theoretical knowledge. On another occasion, it was said that “No one ever spoke the way this man does” (John 7:46 NIV). But more important still, those who followed Jesus closely observed that His life was consistent with those beautiful words (1 John 1:1-3). With His help, let us try to do the same.

We have reached the end of our journey through the words of Jesus spoken two thousand years ago. I hope that these reflections have inspired us to live in this way during our time. The teaching of the Sermon on the Mount is not tied to any specific era or culture. It is the manifesto for living as children of God while waiting for Jesus’ return.

We must continue to listen and implement it day by day.