March 24, 2016
Scripture Reading: Matthew 7:21-23
21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ 23Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
Questions for Reflection:
One of the discipleship questions that we regularly ask within our groups or teams at One Life is what Scriptures are you reading but struggling to understand. One reason we ask this question is that it gives a glimpse into what our team members are reading. Another reason to ask the question is that it gives a glimpse into what they’re pondering and reflecting on. For me personally, this passage is always a bit of a head-scratcher.
It’s always interesting when reading a passage to reflect back on how it would have impacted its original audience. How do you think the crowds and disciples following Jesus felt when they heard Jesus teach this passage? How do you think Matthew’s first readers felt when they read this passage for the first time? How did you feel when you read it today? If you felt angst, what caused that angst within you?
The preceding passage (verses 15-20) deal with false teachers that lead people astray. This passage seems to be dealing with inauthentic followers. Jesus is pointing out that a mere few outward signs is not what qualifies for authentic faith. Just because you have a Jesus fish on your car does not make you a follower of Jesus. Attending church on Sunday does not make you a Christian anymore than walking through a car wash makes you a car. What does Jesus say is the defining element that marks one who will enter the kingdom?
Reading the Bible daily does not make you a follower of Jesus. Reading the Bible daily does not make you do the will of the Father. However, daily reflection on Scripture will help you know His will. End your reading time today asking God to give you greater understanding of what His will is and help you understand how you could live it out.