<Matthew 7>

1) Be stricter to self than others

Be more reflective and be less judgmental

2) Bless, X Judge 

Neither judge nor turn a blind eyes upon a person.

Judge: Prejudice, heart of intolerance and no intercede / Root problem <Gen 3> / Condemn others till you think that they can't change / Human-based love and non-gospel based zeal

Bless: Intercede, heart to bless / Mercy / Anticipate / Rely HS to love, no demand but aim to help them to rebuild relationships with God

1) JX invites us to pray

2) He also promised that your prayer will be answered.

It is not according to your merits, but because God is good.

3) God will give you what is "good" in His eyes

Your best might not be His best.

* Prayer answers:

- Already received (Identity of COG, eternal life, heaven)

These should be the foundation of our prayer.

- Yet to receive (Daily strength and resources form God)

1) 2 Foundations <24 - 27>

Obedience to God's words is the activating force to unleash His power.

ROCK VS SAND

Rock (Firm):

(a) Truth/Word (only problem/solution) 

(b) Identity (COG, inherit promise)

(c) Purpose (new direction) 

(d) Spiritual reality (battle between Angels and Devils)

(e) Only method: Prayer + HS 

Sand: Change too easily, not firm at all

2) 2 Ways <13 - 14>

NARROW VS WIDE GATE

Narrow: X worldly, flesh and convenience

Two ways with two different ends

3) 2 Trees/Fruits <15 - 23>

Healthy: 

(a) Roots absorb word

(b) Stay connected to the true vine (Jesus) and draw nutrients from it (through prayers)

(c) Leading to good fruits (repentance and humility)

*Grace came to us first, works are then developed through us.

What is our current relationship with our brethren?

What is our foundation of joy and strength?

What are the things that hinder us from walking the narrow gate?