Mt 7:21-29
House building: Matthew continues the discussion concerning false prophets by addressing true discipleship. He draws a line which distinguishes those who claim to be and look like disciples from those who truly are authentic disciples.
House building: Matthew continues the discussion concerning false prophets by addressing true discipleship. He draws a line which distinguishes those who claim to be and look like disciples from those who truly are authentic disciples.
Simply knowing that Jesus is Lord is not a mark of authentic discipleship. Anyone can call Jesus “Lord.”
Likewise, prophesying in Jesus’ name, exorcising demons, and doing mighty deeds in Jesus’ name are not necessarily marks of authentic discipleship. Those who are able to do these things may look like they are disciples, but in reality they may be “evildoers,” they may be morally corrupt. Their behavior may not be righteous.
Authentic discipleship is characterized by doing the will of the Father in heaven. After hearing Jesus’ words, the authentic follower (the righteous one) acts on them. He or she is as shrewd as the man who builds his house on rock.
Unauthentic followers of Jesus hear his words but do not practice them. They cannot figure out what they should do and are like those foolish individuals who build their homes on sand.