◄ Matthew 7 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Judging Others (Luke 6:37–42; Romans 14:1–12) 1“Do not judge, or you will be judged. 2For with the same judgment you pronounce, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. 3Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye but fail to notice the beam in your own eye? 4How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ while there is still a beam in your own eye? 5You hypocrite! First take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. 6Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces. Ask, Seek, Knock (Luke 11:5–13) 7Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. 8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. 9Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11So if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask Him! 12In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you. For this is the essence of the Law and the Prophets. The Narrow Gate (Luke 13:22–30) 13Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it. A Tree and Its Fruit (Luke 6:43–45) 15Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16By their fruit you will recognize them. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20So then, by their fruit you will recognize them. 21Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father 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 perform many miracles?’ 23Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you workers of lawlessness!’ The House on the Rock (Luke 6:46–49) 24Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock. 26But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. 27The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell—and great was its collapse!” The Authority of Jesus 28When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were astonished at His teaching, 29because He taught as one who had authority, and not as their scribes. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Matthew 7 Summary The Narrow Gate Verses 1–5 – Judgment with Humility Jesus warns His followers not to hand out harsh verdicts while ignoring their own faults. The memorable picture of a plank in one eye and a tiny speck in another highlights how self-examination must come before any attempt to correct someone else. Verse 6 – Sacred Things in Safe Hands Holy truth should be shared with people who are ready to receive it. Giving what is sacred to those who despise it only invites contempt and backlash. Verses 7–11 – Persistent Prayer “Ask…seek…knock” is an open invitation. God is pictured as a good Father who is eager to give what is truly beneficial to His children when they seek Him. Verse 12 – The Golden Rule “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” This single sentence sums up the heart of the Law and the Prophets and calls for practical, everyday kindness. Verses 13–14 – The Narrow Gate Two ways stand before every person. The wide, comfortable road ends in ruin. The narrow path—harder to find and travel—leads to life. Verses 15–20 – Fruitful Discernment False teachers appear harmless, but their true nature is exposed by their “fruit.” Just as a healthy tree gives good produce, genuine messengers of God display lives and teachings that align with righteousness. Verses 21–23 – True Allegiance Miraculous works and religious words are no substitute for real obedience. Jesus will accept only those who actually do His Father’s will. Verses 24–27 – Foundations of Obedience Hearing Jesus’ words without acting on them is like building a house on sand—inevitable collapse. Putting His words into practice is like building on solid rock that stands firm in every storm. Verses 28–29 – Authority Recognized The crowds sense something new—Jesus teaches with innate authority, not merely quoting other teachers. His words carry the weight of heaven itself. Matthew 7, continuing the Sermon on the Mount, tackles aspects of judgement, discernment, decision-making, and obedience. Jesus calls His followers to self-examination, discernment of true and false prophets, choosing the narrow path of righteousness, and building their lives on the firm foundation of His teachings. Historical Setting • Matthew 7 concludes the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7), preached on a hillside overlooking the Sea of Galilee, likely near Capernaum. • The setting is early in Jesus’ ministry when He is gathering disciples and redefining righteousness beyond the traditions of the scribes and Pharisees. Cultural Insights • “Dogs” and “swine” (7:6) were unclean animals to most Jews—strong symbols for people hostile to holy things. • Building on rock versus sand (7:24–27) draws on the region’s sudden winter rains that turn dry wadis into raging torrents, sweeping away poorly founded houses. • City gates (7:13–14) controlled access and commerce. A narrow gate would force travelers to remove baggage, an apt picture of laying aside sin and self-reliance. Judgment and Discernment • Jesus forbids a condemning spirit, not wise evaluation. Compare with Leviticus 19:17-18 (“do not hate your brother in your heart…rebuke your neighbor frankly”) and John 7:24 (“Stop judging by appearances, but judge with righteous judgment”). • Paul echoes the principle: “For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself” (Romans 2:1). • Self-correction first produces the clarity needed to help others (Galatians 6:1). Prayer and Dependence on God • “Ask…seek…knock” is also found in Luke 11:5-13, where Jesus adds the parable of the persistent friend. • James 1:5 assures believers that God “gives generously to all without finding fault.” • The contrast with earthly fathers (7:9-11) highlights God’s surpassing goodness. Even flawed human parents know how to feed their children; how much more the perfect Father! The Golden Rule • Rooted in Leviticus 19:18, “love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus frames it positively—actively do good. • Paul says it again in Romans 13:10: “Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.” The Two Ways • Deuteronomy 30:19 set Israel before “life and death…choose life.” Psalm 1 paints the same two paths—one blessed, one perishing. • Jesus personalizes the choice: following Him means entering the narrow gate, even if few take it. False Prophets and True Fruit • Deuteronomy 18:20-22 gives Israel guidelines for spotting false prophets—failed predictions mean falsehood. Jesus adds a lifestyle test: character and influence reveal the heart. • John 15:5-8 stresses abiding in Christ to bear good fruit, whereas Galatians 5:19-23 lists the works of the flesh versus the fruit of the Spirit. Doing the Father’s Will • “Workers of lawlessness” (7:23) echoes Psalm 6:8 (“Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity”). • 1 John 2:4 clarifies: “Whoever says, ‘I know Him,’ but does not keep His commandments is a liar.” • Acts 19:13-16 shows the danger of invoking Jesus’ name without true relationship—seven sons of Sceva are overpowered by an evil spirit. Foundations and Obedience • 1 Corinthians 3:11—“For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.” • James 1:22—“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • Archaeology reveals first-century Galilean builders often dug down to bedrock, setting stone footings to survive flash floods. Authority of Jesus • Isaiah 11:2 foretold the Spirit of wisdom resting on Messiah. The crowd in Matthew 7:28-29 feels that prophetic weight. • John 7:46 records guards saying, “No one ever spoke like this man!”—confirming the same impact in Jerusalem. Archaeological Notes • Galilean homes: basalt block walls, mud plaster, and wooden beams for roofs. Without a solid stone foundation, heavy rains could undercut walls. • Stones used as milestones or gateposts in ancient cities add texture to Jesus’ “narrow gate” metaphor—some preserved examples measure barely two feet wide. • First-century coins depict pomegranates, figs, and grapes, reinforcing Jesus’ everyday imagery of good and bad fruit. Living the Message Today • Replace criticism with humble self-evaluation, then offer gentle help. • Guard holy truth yet remain ready to share with those who are open. • Pray persistently, trusting God’s Father-heart to provide what is best. • Treat others with the kindness and fairness you crave. • Choose the narrow path daily—small compromises widen the road to ruin. • Test teachers by their character and their message. Healthy doctrine produces healthy lives. • Make obedience to Jesus the foundation of every plan; storm-proof living comes only from doing what He says. • Stand in awe of His authority. The One who spoke these words still speaks today, calling listeners to build on the rock and live. Connections to Additional Scriptures Judgment and Hypocrisy Romans 2:1 - Therefore you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things. Persistence in Prayer Luke 18:1 - Then Jesus told them a parable about their need to pray at all times and not lose heart. The Golden Rule Luke 6:31 - Do to others as you would have them do to you. The Narrow and Wide Gates John 14:6 - Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.' True and False Prophets 1 John 4:1 - Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. Teaching Points Judgment and Hypocrisy Do not judge, or you will be judged (Matthew 7:1). Jesus warns against hypocritical judgment, urging us to first examine our own faults. Discernment in Giving Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine (Matthew 7:6). This teaches us to exercise discernment in sharing sacred truths. Persistence in Prayer Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you (Matthew 7:7). Jesus encourages persistent and faithful prayer. The Golden Rule In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you (Matthew 7:12). This principle summarizes the Law and the Prophets. The Narrow and Wide Gates Enter through the narrow gate (Matthew 7:13). Jesus contrasts the difficult path to life with the easy road to destruction. True and False Prophets By their fruit you will recognize them (Matthew 7:16). We are called to discern true teachings by examining the fruits of those who teach. The Wise and Foolish Builders Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock (Matthew 7:24). Jesus emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation in His teachings. Practical Applications Regularly self-reflect to identify and address personal faults before critiquing others. Practice discernment in sharing your faith, ensuring it is received with respect and understanding. Cultivate a consistent prayer life, trusting in God's timing and provision. Treat others with kindness and respect, embodying the Golden Rule in all interactions. Choose the path of righteousness, even when it is challenging or unpopular. Evaluate teachings and leaders by their actions and the fruits they produce. Build your life on the teachings of Christ, ensuring a solid foundation for all circumstances. People 1. Judge Description: Refers to those who judge others. Jesus warns against judging others to avoid being judged in the same manner. The Greek word used here is "κριτής" (kritēs), which means a judge or one who passes judgment. Reference: Matthew 7:1 - "Do not judge, or you will be judged." 2. Hypocrite Description: Those who criticize others while failing to see their own faults. Jesus uses this term to describe someone who points out the speck in another's eye while ignoring the plank in their own. Reference: Matthew 7:5 - "You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye." 3. Brother Description: Represents fellow believers or people in general whom one might judge or help. The Greek word "ἀδελφός" (adelphos) is used, meaning brother or fellow believer. Reference: Matthew 7:3-5 - "Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye but fail to notice the beam in your own eye?" 4. Dogs and Pigs Description: Metaphorical terms used to describe those who are unworthy or unappreciative of what is holy or valuable. Jesus advises not to give what is sacred to dogs or throw pearls to pigs. Reference: Matthew 7:6 - "Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces." 5. False Prophets Description: Individuals who claim to speak for God but lead others astray. Jesus warns to be wary of them, as they come in sheep's clothing but are inwardly ravenous wolves. Reference: Matthew 7:15 - "Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves." 6. Wise Man Description: Someone who hears Jesus' words and acts on them, likened to a man who builds his house on a rock, ensuring stability and resilience. Reference: Matthew 7:24 - "Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock." 7. Foolish Man Description: Someone who hears Jesus' words but does not act on them, compared to a man who builds his house on sand, leading to its collapse. Reference: Matthew 7:26 - "But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand." Places Matthew 7 in the Berean Standard Bible does not specifically mention any geographical places. Instead, it focuses on teachings and parables of Jesus. However, I can provide a brief overview of the chapter's themes and teachings if that would be helpful. Let me know how you would like to proceed! Events 1. Judging Others (Matthew 7:1-5) Jesus warns against judging others, emphasizing that the measure we use to judge will be used against us. He uses the metaphor of a speck and a plank to illustrate the hypocrisy of judging others while ignoring one's own faults. Greek root: The word "judge" (κρίνω, krinō) implies forming an opinion or conclusion about someone. 2. Do Not Give Dogs What is Holy (Matthew 7:6) Jesus advises not to give what is holy to dogs or throw pearls before pigs, lest they trample them and turn to attack. This suggests discernment in sharing sacred truths. Greek root: "Holy" (ἅγιος, hagios) refers to something set apart for God. 3. Ask, Seek, Knock (Matthew 7:7-11) Jesus encourages persistent prayer, promising that those who ask will receive, those who seek will find, and to those who knock, the door will be opened. He compares God's willingness to give good gifts to that of a loving father. Greek root: "Ask" (αἰτέω, aiteō), "seek" (ζητέω, zēteō), and "knock" (κρούω, krouō) all imply continuous action. 4. The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12) Jesus summarizes the Law and the Prophets with the Golden Rule: "In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you." Greek root: "Do" (ποιέω, poieō) emphasizes action and conduct. 5. The Narrow and Wide Gates (Matthew 7:13-14) Jesus contrasts the narrow gate that leads to life with the wide gate that leads to destruction, urging followers to choose the difficult path. Greek root: "Narrow" (στενός, stenos) suggests constriction or difficulty. 6. A Tree and Its Fruit (Matthew 7:15-20) Jesus warns against false prophets, comparing them to trees that are known by their fruit. Good trees bear good fruit, while bad trees bear bad fruit. Greek root: "Fruit" (καρπός, karpos) symbolizes the visible outcome of one's actions. 7. True Disciples (Matthew 7:21-23) Jesus declares that not everyone who calls Him "Lord" will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of His Father. He warns that many will claim to have done works in His name, but He will declare, "I never knew you." Greek root: "Know" (γινώσκω, ginōskō) implies an intimate, personal relationship. 8. The Wise and Foolish Builders (Matthew 7:24-27) Jesus concludes with a parable about two builders: one wise, who builds on rock, and one foolish, who builds on sand. The wise builder's house withstands storms, symbolizing the stability of a life built on Jesus' teachings. Greek root: "Rock" (πέτρα, petra) signifies a strong foundation. 9. The Authority of Jesus (Matthew 7:28-29) The chapter ends with the crowd's reaction to Jesus' teaching, noting that He taught with authority, unlike the scribes. Greek root: "Authority" (ἐξουσία, exousia) denotes power and rightful command. Lessons from Matthew 7 1. Judge with Discernment, Not Condemnation In Matthew 7:1, Jesus instructs, "Do not judge, or you will be judged." This isn't a call to abandon discernment but a reminder to approach others with grace and humility. When we judge, we must remember that we, too, are under the same divine scrutiny. Instead of condemning, let’s seek to understand and uplift, reflecting the love and mercy that Christ shows us. 2. The Measure You Use Will Be Measured to You Verse 2 warns, "For with the same measure you use, it will be measured to you." This principle encourages us to extend the same grace and forgiveness to others that we hope to receive. By practicing empathy and kindness, we create a cycle of compassion that mirrors the heart of God. 3. Remove the Plank from Your Own Eye Before pointing out the faults in others, Jesus advises in verses 3-5 to first address our own shortcomings: "First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye." This lesson teaches us the importance of self-reflection and humility, reminding us that personal growth precedes helping others. 4. Do Not Give Dogs What Is Holy In verse 6, Jesus says, "Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before swine." This metaphorical language encourages us to be wise stewards of the truth, sharing it with those who are open and receptive. It’s a call to discernment, ensuring that our efforts to share the Gospel are fruitful and respected. 5. Ask, Seek, Knock Verses 7-8 promise, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you." This is an invitation to persistent prayer and active faith. God delights in our pursuit of Him, and He promises to respond to our earnest seeking with His presence and provision. 6. The Golden Rule Verse 12 encapsulates a profound ethical teaching: "In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you." This principle, known as the Golden Rule, is a call to proactive love and kindness. By treating others as we wish to be treated, we embody the love of Christ and foster a community of mutual respect and care. 7. The Narrow and Wide Gates In verses 13-14, Jesus contrasts the narrow gate that leads to life with the wide gate that leads to destruction. "Enter through the narrow gate," He urges. This lesson highlights the importance of choosing the path of righteousness, even when it’s challenging, knowing that it leads to eternal life with God. 8. Recognize Them by Their Fruits Verses 15-20 warn against false prophets, teaching us to discern truth by examining the "fruits" of one’s life. "Every good tree bears good fruit," Jesus explains. This lesson encourages us to evaluate teachings and actions by their outcomes, ensuring they align with God’s truth and righteousness. 9. Not Everyone Who Says 'Lord, Lord' Will Enter the Kingdom In verses 21-23, Jesus emphasizes the importance of genuine faith over mere words: "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven." This is a call to authentic discipleship, where our actions reflect our professed beliefs, and our relationship with Christ is sincere and transformative. 10. Build Your House on the Rock The chapter concludes with the parable of the wise and foolish builders in verses 24-27. "Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock." This lesson underscores the importance of a solid foundation in Christ, ensuring that our lives withstand the storms of life through obedience and faith in His teachings. Topics 1. Judging Others (Matthew 7:1-5) This passage warns against hypocritical judgment. Jesus says, "Do not judge, or you will be judged" (Matthew 7:1). The Greek word for "judge" is "κρίνω" (krinō), which implies making a decision or forming an opinion. The emphasis is on self-examination before criticizing others. 2. The Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12) Known as the Golden Rule, this verse states, "In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you" (Matthew 7:12). This principle is rooted in the Greek word "ποιέω" (poieō), meaning "to do" or "to make," emphasizing proactive kindness and empathy. 3. Ask, Seek, Knock (Matthew 7:7-11) Jesus encourages persistent prayer with the promise that God will respond: "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7). The Greek verbs "αἰτέω" (aiteō), "ζητέω" (zēteō), and "κρούω" (krouō) suggest continuous action, highlighting perseverance in prayer. 4. The Narrow and Wide Gates (Matthew 7:13-14) This teaching contrasts the difficult path to life with the easy path to destruction: "Enter through the narrow gate" (Matthew 7:13). The Greek word "στενός" (stenos) for "narrow" implies constriction, symbolizing the challenges of true discipleship. 5. A Tree and Its Fruit (Matthew 7:15-20) Jesus uses the metaphor of trees and fruit to illustrate the importance of discernment: "By their fruit you will recognize them" (Matthew 7:16). The Greek word "καρπός" (karpos) for "fruit" signifies the visible outcomes of one's actions and character. 6. True and False Disciples (Matthew 7:21-23) This passage warns that not everyone who claims to follow Jesus will enter the kingdom of heaven: "Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 7:21). The Greek term "κύριος" (kyrios) for "Lord" underscores the necessity of genuine submission to Christ's authority. 7. The Wise and Foolish Builders (Matthew 7:24-27) Jesus concludes with a parable about building on a solid foundation: "Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock" (Matthew 7:24). The Greek word "σοφός" (sophos) for "wise" highlights the importance of applying Jesus' teachings. Themes 1. Judgment and Hypocrisy Jesus warns against judging others hypocritically. He emphasizes self-examination before criticizing others: "For with the same judgment you pronounce, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you" (Matthew 7:2). The Greek word for "judge" (κρίνω, krinō) implies a critical and condemning judgment, which Jesus cautions against. 2. Discernment and Correction The passage encourages discernment in correcting others, using the metaphor of removing a speck from a brother's eye while ignoring the plank in one's own: "First take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye" (Matthew 7:5). This highlights the importance of humility and self-awareness. 3. Prayer and Trust in God Jesus assures believers of God's willingness to answer prayer: "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7). The Greek verbs for ask (αἰτέω, aiteō), seek (ζητέω, zēteō), and knock (κρούω, krouō) are in the present imperative, suggesting continuous action and persistence in prayer. 4. The Golden Rule Jesus presents the principle of treating others as one would like to be treated: "In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you" (Matthew 7:12). This encapsulates the ethical teachings of the Law and the Prophets, emphasizing love and empathy. 5. The Narrow and Wide Gates Jesus contrasts the narrow gate leading to life with the wide gate leading to destruction: "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it" (Matthew 7:13). The imagery underscores the difficulty and commitment required to follow Christ. 6. False Prophets and True Discipleship Jesus warns against false prophets, identified by their fruits: "By their fruit you will recognize them" (Matthew 7:16). The Greek word for "fruit" (καρπός, karpos) symbolizes the visible outcomes of one's life and teachings, serving as a test of authenticity. 7. The Wise and Foolish Builders The parable of the wise and foolish builders illustrates the importance of putting Jesus' words into practice: "Everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock" (Matthew 7:24). This theme emphasizes obedience and the foundation of faith. Prayer Points Pray for humility and wisdom to recognize and address personal shortcomings. Ask for discernment in sharing the Gospel and interacting with others. Seek God's guidance and strength to persist in prayer and faith. Pray for the ability to treat others with love and respect, following the example of Christ. Request courage to walk the narrow path and stand firm in faith. Pray for discernment to recognize true teachings and leaders. Ask for a firm foundation in Christ's teachings to withstand life's challenges. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Matthew 7:1, how can “judge not” be reconciled with biblical commands to discern between good and evil? 2. In Matthew 7:7, why do prayers often go unanswered if the passage promises, “ask and it will be given”? 3. In Matthew 7:13–14, does the “narrow gate” imply limited salvation and conflict with the idea of a loving God who desires to save all? 4. In Matthew 7:15, how do we reliably identify “false prophets,” and why has this led to so much division throughout church history? 5. In Matthew 7:21–23, how can “not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord’” align with faith-based salvation taught elsewhere in the New Testament? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Jesus' caution against judging others influence your interactions with people? 2. Reflect on the metaphor of the speck and the plank. How does this speak to self-examination? 3. How can Jesus' teaching on asking, seeking, and knocking encourage your prayer life? 4. What does the analogy of the narrow and wide gates teach about decision-making in your spiritual journey? 5. How does the metaphor of the tree and its fruit aid in your discernment of true and false teachings? 6. How does the warning against false disciples challenge your understanding of spiritual activities? 7. In what ways does the parable of the wise and foolish builders affect your approach to applying Jesus' teachings? 8. What does "casting pearls before swine" mean in your present context? 9. How can the warning about the wide and easy path influence your life choices? 10. What steps can you take to ensure you're a "tree" producing good fruit? 11. How does the assertion that not all who say 'Lord, Lord' will enter the Kingdom of Heaven challenge your perspective on salvation? 12. How can the teaching on wise and foolish builders inform your approach to the challenges of life? 13. What measures can you implement to ensure you're not a false disciple, but a true follower of Jesus? 14. How does the teaching on judgement inform your approach to discerning right from wrong? 15. How can the principles in Matthew 7 guide you in your relationship with God and others? 16. How does Jesus' teaching on the effectiveness of prayer impact your faith and trust in God? 17. What are the implications of the teaching that only those who do the will of God will enter His Kingdom in your life? 18. How can you practically apply the teachings of Matthew 7 in your day-to-day life? 19. How does the principle of recognizing false prophets by their fruits guide you in discerning truth in today's world? 20. How can the teachings of Matthew 7 shape your spiritual growth and commitment to Christ-like living? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions