Matthew Chapter 7

Read Matthew Chapter 7.

While verses 1-12 focus upon relationships, the key word for verses 13-29 is "restricted."

• Restricted entrance (7:13-14)
• Restricted fruit (7:15-20)
• Restricted intimacy (7:21-23)
• Restricted foundation (strength) (7:24-27)

How we wish Jesus was only telling stories or using figurative language!  No.  He is direct and serious.  He says what He means and means what He says.  This second section (7:13-29) is serious stuff.  Jesus does not want us to be deceived.  There is nothing wrong with some appropriate fear of the Lord!  Godly people assume nothing.  They constantly check their being (inner and outer) to make sure of things.

Matthew Chapter 6

Read Matthew chapter 6.

Reading this chapter, the word "foundational" comes to mind.  There are two sections:  foundational disciplines (6:1-18) and foundational decisions (6:19-34).

1. Foundational spiritual disciplines  (6:1-18) > practices
• Charity (6:1-4) > generosity, secrecy
• Prayer (6:5-15) > simplicity, secrecy, forgiveness
• Fasting (6:16-18) > secrecy
2. Foundational personal decisions (6:19-34) > priorities
• Treasure (6:19-21) > heaven or earth? 
• Filter (6:22-23) > clean and clear or unclean and unclear?
• Master (6:24) > God or money?
• Provisions (6:25-34) > God (trust) or self (worry)?

Observations:

• In section 1, notice that each spiritual discipline is introduced by the words "when you."  Practicing the spiritual disciplines is expected, normative behavior for a Christian.
• In section 2, notice the tendency for self to say, "Yes, of course" to the right answer in each decision. Beware deception!
• What "lights you up"? (6:22-23)

Matthew Chapter 5

Read Matthew chapter 5.

To maximize this chapter you will need humility.  Reading this chapter is similar to reading anywhere in James.  You get "nailed" quickly and consistently.  You don't have to read far before you say, "Yes, that's me."  Then you read some more and say, "That's me again."

This chapter deals with it all:  behaviors, interests, pursuits, thoughts, desires, inclinations, attachments, intentions, etc.  Read chapter five and you will be exposed.  Exposure is the first step in the process of repentance.  Chapter five isn't meant to dishearten but to liberate.

Followers of Jesus behave and think differently than the world.  There is a call to daily conformity to Jesus.  So, you've fallen short?  Ask Jesus to walk you through the process of restoration.  He understands that, without Him, you'll be constantly frustrated.

• Which beatitude (5:1-12) are you most vulnerable in and struggling with?
• Which of these -- anger, apathy, adultery, animosity -- most "owns" you right now?
• Write an honest prayer to Jesus. Tell Him where you lack.  He already knows.  He wants to hear it from you.  Ask for forgiveness, insight and strength.
• Speech, thoughts and actions affect relationships. Whom do you need to visit, call or write? From whom do you need to ask forgiveness?  What action is necessary?  Will you do it? When?