After Jesus’ teaching on the Kingdom, He then demonstrates He is both the King and the example of a citizen of the Kingdom. Chapter eight presents portraits to instruct and inspire us to follow the example of King Jesus.

Jesus concludes His masterful sermon with a blue collar analogy. Two builders with similar blueprints, materials, methods and effort have drastically different endings because of their choice in foundation. Jesus’ conclusion is simple. The two builders are listeners and the all-important foundation is what they do with Jesus’ words.

Jesus finishes the Sermon on the Mount with some twos: two paths: two types of leaders, two trees, two types of followers, and two builders. Each of them targets a tendency in the Christian walk and the church community. Jesus warns that there will be church people attempting to enter the Kingdom who He tells to depart from Him in, perhaps, His scariest warning.

Jesus begins the greatest sermon with the Beatitudes or blessings. Jesus ends with the bewares. We need both or we will simply be plump snacks for the wolves. Jesus has warned us that life has two paths and now He is warning us about bad leaders.

Jesus is concluding His sermon by summarizing and applying His message. He makes it clear that the Golden Rule, verse 12, takes care of all the Old Testament Law and Prophets. It is the right and Godly way of life. Next, Jesus warns if we want to live according to this rule it will be unpopular and hard.

Jesus tells his disciples to ask, seek, and knock; they will receive, find, and open doors. The statement is unconditional and extends to everyone. Does this mean we can demand that God give us whatever we want? Or find anything that our heart desires? Or force open every door we encounter? Context is king, and Jesus’ sermon interprets this statement.