Make a Choice

As Jesus concludes His “Sermon on the Mount,” He leaves the crowd with a clear call to action. Beginning in Matthew 7:24, He says, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on the rock…everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.”

While we probably have fond memories of singing the Bible class song that comes from this passage of scripture, there are several important lessons that Jesus teaches with these words.

Obedience or disobedience is a choice that everyone makes. In His perfect sermon illustration, there are only two types of people, those who choose to “act on” His words and those who do not. Everyone is included, and everyone needs to choose.

Disobedience results in destruction. Jesus describes the disobedient person as “a foolish man who built his house on the sand” (Matthew 7:26). The house does not stand a chance against the floods and winds, so it is destroyed.

Obedience results in a blessing. Jesus describes the obedient person as “a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew7:24). Because of his wise choices, his house stands against the storms and ultimately does not fall.

This familiar passage and memorable illustration teach that each of us needs to choose how we live our lives and that our choice will result in either destruction or a blessing.

Matt Langfield