The Kingdom Character series has been a transformative journey that we could have easily extended to dive even deeper. For nearly a year, we've explored Jesus’ powerful teachings, understanding that every word He shared holds timeless wisdom. As we close this series, I find myself reluctant to move on, as the depth of Jesus' sermon could captivate us indefinitely. However, today we turn to a critical moment in His teaching, one that challenges us to reflect on our foundations.
The Foundation of True Wisdom
In Matthew 7:24, Jesus declares, “Therefore, everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.” These words serve as the climax of His Sermon on the Mount, a collection of teachings that emphasize the essence of Kingdom character. But before we can celebrate the idea of building a house on the rock, we need to pause and reflect on Jesus’ initial call: “Whoever hears these sayings of mine.”
How many times do we come to church, listen to sermons, and leave unchanged? Jesus is not just talking about passive listening but hearing with intent—listening that leads to action. In the busyness of life, His voice is often drowned out by our own thoughts, worries, and plans. But Jesus asks, “Can you hear me?”
The Beatitudes: A Model for Kingdom Living
Jesus starts His sermon with the Beatitudes, foundational principles that outline the character traits of those who belong to His Kingdom:
- “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:3)
- “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)
- “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5)
These verses address different groups—those who are spiritually bankrupt, the grieving, the humble. He speaks directly to those facing various life challenges, emphasizing that the Kingdom of God is for everyone willing to listen and live according to these teachings.
Addressing the Core of Human Struggles
Throughout the sermon, Jesus deals with practical issues that cut across time and culture. He speaks to those who have lost their sense of purpose: “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned?” (Matthew 5:13). He calls out hypocrisy in religious practices and urges sincere devotion, reminding us that true faith is not a show but an inward transformation.
Jesus also tackles anger, lust, honesty, and love for enemies. Each lesson demands that we confront our own imperfections. For those who are tempted to judge others harshly, He says, “Judge not, that you be not judged.” (Matthew 7:1). The common thread is that Kingdom character requires us to confront ourselves, surrender our pride, and seek transformation from within.
Building on Rock vs. Sand: A Call to Action
In the closing of His sermon, Jesus uses a powerful metaphor: the wise and foolish builders. He likens those who hear His words and act on them to a man who builds his house on a solid rock. “The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.” (Matthew 7:25). This rock symbolizes the deep, unshakable foundation of faith and obedience.
In contrast, He describes the foolish builder who builds on sand. While a house on sand may look impressive at first, it lacks the stability to withstand storms. The imagery is clear—without a firm foundation in Christ’s teachings, life’s inevitable trials will cause our efforts to collapse.
Living Out Kingdom Character
What does it mean to live with Kingdom character in today’s world? It means applying what we learn, even when it’s hard or inconvenient. It means listening to Jesus’ call to surrender our ambitions, grudges, and personal agendas to embrace His will. The Apostle James reminds us, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (James 1:22).
Being a Christian is not about appearances but about what lies beneath. Just as a house’s strength is determined by its foundation, so is the integrity of our faith determined by our obedience to God’s word. This truth is what enables us to remain steadfast, whether facing personal loss, financial difficulties, or societal pressure.
Conclusion: The Choice is Ours
Jesus concludes His sermon by placing the choice before His listeners. Will we be wise builders who take His teachings to heart and act on them, or will we be foolish, building on unstable ground? The storms of life are not a matter of if but when. The foundation we choose today determines whether we will stand firm or fall.
As we end this series, may we commit to being coachable, willing to build our lives on the enduring truth of Christ’s teachings. Let us hear His words, take them to heart, and live them out daily. Amen.
“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” – James 1:2 2