Day: 3
Text: Matthew 7:24-27
Time:
Introduction- Parables are short stories that contain profound spiritual lessons. Jesus frequently used them to teach His followers about God’s kingdom and how to live obediently. Matthew 7:24–27 and Luke 6:46–49 contain two of His most potent parables, the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders.
Jesus uses this parable to illustrate his teachings on true discipleship in the Sermon on the Mount. He draws a clear distinction between two kinds of people:
By listening to and following Jesus’ teachings, the Wise Builder creates a solid, long-lasting foundation.
The foolish builder, who hears Jesus’ teachings but disregards them, erects a shaky foundation.
Life Lessons–
1. Personal Faith in Christ
Accepting Jesus as Lord and following His teachings ensures a strong spiritual foundation.
Example: A Christian who prays, studies the Bible, and obeys God will remain strong even in hard times.
2. Faith Must Be Active, Not Passive
The foolish builder may have assumed the weather would always be good. Likewise, people who ignore God’s Word often feel secure until difficulties arise.
True faith is demonstrated through action (Matthew 7:21, James 2:17)
3. Storms are Inevitable
Jesus does not promise a storm-free life but a storm- proof faith.
Trials test the foundation of our lives. A strong foundation in Christ allows us to endure.
4. The Role of Obedience
The difference between the wise and foolish builders is not hearing Jesus’ words but obeying them (James 1:22-25).
Example: Two people may go to church regularly, but only the one who applies God’s Word will stand firm in trials.
Life applications
1. What does Jesus mean by “building on the rock”?
Building on the rock means basing one’s life on Jesus Christ and His teachings. The “rock” symbolizes a strong, unshakable foundation—faith in God that is demonstrated through obedience (1 Corinthians 3:11, Psalm 18:2). Those who not only hear but apply Jesus’ words in their daily lives will remain firm when challenges come.
2. Why do you think the foolish builder chose to build on sand?
The foolish builder likely chose to build on sand because it seemed easier and quicker. Sand is a shortcut, representing people who prefer convenience over true commitment to Christ. He may have assumed the weather would always be good, just as some people believe they can get by without fully obeying God. This illustrates those who hear Jesus’ words but ignore them, choosing temporary pleasures or worldly wisdom instead of God’s truth.
3What do the storm, rain, and wind symbolize in this parable?
The storm, rain, and wind symbolize the difficulties, trials, and challenges of life. These could include personal struggles like financial hardship, sickness, loss, persecution, or temptations. They test the foundation of a person’s faith. A life built on Christ withstands these storms, while a life built on unstable, worldly foundations collapses under pressure.
Lesson of the Day
True Wisdom Is Choosing Christ as Our Foundation
Lesson: The wisest decision we can make is to put our trust in Jesus and live according to His teachings.
Example Today: A student who builds their life on God’s truth rather than peer pressure will make wise choices that lead to long-term success and fulfillment.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” — Proverbs 9:10
Storms Will Come—Faith Prepares Us
Lesson: Challenges, suffering, and trials are inevitable, but a strong faith helps us endure.
Example Today: Whether it’s a health crisis, financial loss, or relationship struggles, those who trust in Christ will have peace and resilience, while those relying on worldly security may feel lost and hopeless.
Biblical Support: “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33
Hearing God’s Word Is Not Enough—We Must Obey
Lesson: Knowing the Bible or attending church isn’t enough; true wisdom comes from applying God’s Word.
Example Today: Someone may listen to sermons regularly but never practice forgiveness, love, or integrity. When trouble comes, they find themselves spiritually unprepared.
Biblical Support: “Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” — James 1:22
Complied by: LUCY AWOWOLE -BROWNE
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