Discussion Guide
Throughout Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, we’ve seen Him speak with a teaching style unlike anything the crowds had heard before—one that goes beyond religious jargon and cuts straight to the heart. He has shown us a better way to live through the Beatitudes, being the light of the world, fulfilling the law, raising the standard of living, warning against performance-based religion, and urging us to store treasure in heaven. This week, we conclude the series with a powerful call—to make a decision and choose a path. Let’s finish strong as we explore the closing words of Jesus’ sermon.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. Do you have an old, worn-out shirt or sleepwear that you just can’t part with? Share a time when you got lost due to bad directions.
2. Read Matthew 7:13-14. Do you ever struggle with simple decisions—like where to eat? What decision is Jesus calling us to in these verses? Why is the wide gate so easy to take? Why does the narrow gate seem harder?
3. Read Matthew 7:15-20, Galatians 5:22-23. Who or what are some “wolves in sheep clothing” in our world today? Why is biblical discernment so important in choosing what and who we follow? What does “good fruit” look like?
4. Read Matthew 7:21-23, 24-27. How can we fall into the trap of religion instead of a relationship with Jesus? Discuss the difference between trying to earn salvation versus our lives showing the evidence of our salvation? Why is it so important to put Jesus’ words into practice?
5. Action Steps: Take some time this week to reflect:
*Which path are you on—wide or narrow?
*Are you building your life on the Rock or sand?
*What’s influencing you that may need to change?
*How can you begin to put into practice the words of Jesus?