BIBLE STUDY
What kind of builder Major Cliff Allchin asks what the foundation is for our lives Paul writes: ‘For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ’ (1 Corinthians 3:11).
STUDY PASSAGE: MATTHEW 7:24–29 QUESTION What were your favourite Bible stories when you were a child?
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In the 1970s I worked for the Greater London Council in the Housing Maintenance Department. There were two particular areas of work that involved specialist surveyors. One of these was the subsidence of the properties, causing damage to the foundations. I learnt then that a good foundation is of the utmost importance. This is the key point of Jesus’ story of the wise man and the foolish man. Despite being a children’s favourite, it was not given by Jesus as an illustration for children but as a story to show the importance of living out his teachings and laying their foundation on him.
Through the week with Salvationist – a devotional thought for each day by Major Lynda Levis
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Salvationist 29 June 2019
QUESTION O When ‘all is stripped away’, as in Matt Redman’s song ‘The Heart Of Worship’ (SASB 635), what lies beneath your life? The wise man and the foolish man built their houses in good weather. The foolish man built quickly; the wise man built with care and attention, digging deep foundations. The substance and strength of the foundation were crucial to the building’s stability. Jesus said: ‘Everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock’ (v24). Then he said: ‘Everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand’ (v26).
What ‘words of mine’? I suggest that as this phrase comes at the Sermon on the Mount’s conclusion, Jesus means the teachings contained within it. It is a solid foundation in good times There are many sermons preached about how to follow Christ’s will when life is stormy and dark. However, seemingly little is said about how to be a disciple when things are good. Is that just our dismal British way of looking at things, along the lines of ‘every silver lining has a cloud’? We need to remember that it is OK to have an enjoyable life. It is OK to be happy, cheerful and even excited because of our faith. How does a solid foundation help us in the well-off moments of our lives? After their exodus from Egyptian slavery, Moses reminded the children of Israel that there would be good times coming. He warned that they should take care to remember their God in their prosperity (see
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So this is what the Sovereign Lord says: ‘See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation; the one who relies on it will never be stricken with panic.’ (Isaiah 28:16)
My hope is built on nothing less/ Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness,/ I dare not trust the sweetest frame,/ But wholly lean on Jesus’ name. (SASB 662)
Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I shall never be shaken. (Psalm 62:2)
Prayer Thank you, Lord, that you created us with the freedom to choose. May we use that freedom wisely, choosing you and your way in all things. May we grow in wisdom, learning of you and growing in you each day. May every choice that we make honour you.
