Discipleship Guide: Week 2 - Rev. Dr. Erin Beasley
- Sean Stanfield
- Jul 13
- 2 min read
Sermon on the Mount
Week 2
Rev. Dr. Erin Beasley
In Matthew 7:1–23, Jesus offers strong words about judgment, discernment, and authentic discipleship. He warns against the hypocrisy of judging others while ignoring our own faults, calling us to examine our inner life before criticizing others. He also reminds us that not everyone who appears religious is truly living in alignment with God’s will. The passage emphasizes the need for a faith that bears good fruit, evidence of a life rooted in God. Jesus invites his followers to move beyond surface-level spirituality and into a deeper obedience that reflects the heart and character of God.
Questions for Reflection
Read Matthew 7:1–5. What does Jesus mean when he says, “Do not judge, or you too will be judged”? How can we practice healthy accountability without becoming judgmental?
Jesus uses the metaphor of the speck and the log. What might that look like in our relationships today? How can we become more self-aware of our own “logs”?
Verse 6 speaks about not throwing “pearls to pigs.” How do we discern when and how to share truth or wisdom with others?
In verses 7–11, Jesus encourages us to ask, seek, and knock. How do these actions relate to developing a deeper spiritual life and connection with God?
Verse 12 is known as the Golden Rule. How does this tie together the themes of judgment, discernment, and love throughout the chapter?
In verses 13–14, Jesus describes the narrow and wide gates. What do these gates represent in your life right now? What makes the narrow gate challenging but worth choosing?
Verses 15–20 speak about recognizing false prophets “by their fruits.” What does it mean to bear good fruit? How can we examine the fruit in our own lives and in leaders we follow?
In verses 21–23, Jesus says not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” will enter the kingdom. How does this challenge assumptions about religious activity and true discipleship?
How can we distinguish between performative faith and transformative faith? What practices help you stay rooted in God’s will?
After reading the entire passage, what stands out to you most? Where do you feel invited to grow, repent, or act differently?
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