Matthew 7:13-27
So in this concluding section of the Sermon on the Mount we have three tests which will prove we are Kingdom living.
First, [13 & 14] - society around us is going one way, the broad way, while we are to be going the narrow way, the way of Christ, e.g. by turning the other cheek, going the extra mile, putting our personal rights aside for the sake of another.
Second, [15-23] Kingdom living bears good fruit, which refers not only to the fruit of the Spirit [Galaians 5:22-23]: joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control, but to holy living [Romans 6:22] and good works [Ephesians 2:10].
And third, [24-27] Kingdom living is not based on a church, a creed, or a good life, but on Jesus Christ who died for the believer - so Kingdom living is living the word and not just hearing [James 1:22].
Conclusion: the kingdom will be populated by those who live for an audience of One, namely, Jesus Christ the King.
Matthew 7:28-29 (MSG)
When Jesus concluded his address, the crowd burst into applause. They had never heard teaching like this. It was apparent that he was living everything he was saying—quite a contrast to their religion teachers! This was the best teaching they had ever heard.
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