This sermon is given by GPP Campus Pastor Jared Seeland. The scripture reference is from Matthew 7:15-29.

# Key Verses

Matthew 7:15-29

Matthew 7:21

Matthew 7:16

James 1:22

Questions

Pastor Jared compared intellectual Christianity to thinkingabout exercise without actually exercising. In what areas of your faith might you be guilty of knowing what to do but not actually doing it?

How would you explain the difference between being justified (saved by grace) and the ongoing process of sanctification (growing in holiness) to someone new to Christianity?

Jesus says we will recognize true followers by their fruits. What kind of 'fruit' should be evident in the life of someone who is building on the rock?

The sermon defined holiness as being 'set apart to reveal God's heart.' How might this definition change how you think about holiness in your daily life?

What are some areas where you find it particularly challenging to obey Jesus' teachings rather than following your own instincts or cultural norms?

Pastor Jared mentioned that we often 'sacrifice obedience on the altar of authenticity.' What do you think this means, and have you seen examples of this in your own life?

Jesus warns that storms will come to test the foundation of our faith. Have you experienced storms that revealed the strength or weakness of your spiritual foundation?

How might our church community better support each other in the hard work of 'digging deep' to build our lives on the rock of Jesus' teachings?

Life Application

This week, identify one specific teaching of Jesus that youfind challenging to obey. It might be loving your enemies, forgiving someone who hurt you, being generous with your resources, or speaking truth with love.

Rather than just thinking about this teaching or studying it more, commit to taking one concrete action to put it into practice. Write down what you plan to do, pray for God's strength to follow through, and then share your experience with someone in your group next time you meet.

Remember, we're not building on the rock by simply understanding Jesus' words, but by doing them.

Key Takeaways

Holiness means being set apart to reveal God's heart, whichrequires active obedience, not just intellectual understanding.

Jesus distinguishes between the wise person who hears Hiswords and does them (building on rock) and the foolish person who hears but doesn't obey (building on sand).

Our obedience to Christ is the most powerful apologetic we have - it either adorns the gospel or makes Christianity unbelievable to the world.

Sincerity is not an excuse to sin - we need to let Jesus change us at the most fundamental level, even when it doesn't feel natural.

When storms come (and they will), only a faith built on the foundation of obedience to Christ will stand firm.

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