In Room Questions

1. 1. In this section of teaching, what kind of trap is Jesus warning his followers about?
   2. When we feel the desire to judge others, what does Jesus encourage us to do instead?

Small Group Questions

1. The beginning of this video frames the story of the Bible as a choice between two paths—one leading to life and the other to death. How does this reframe impact your understanding of the Bible?
2. Jesus says that we can identify illegitimate prophets by their fruit. What are some examples of bad fruit produced by a leader? What are examples of good fruit?
3. Jesus says that the wise person who builds on the rock hears his words “and does them.” Why is it important to trust in Jesus and to follow his way of life?
4. How can following the teachings of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount prepare us for the storms of life? Consider a few examples, such as financial hardship, persecution, or unexpected tragedy.

THE MAIN POINT

Two thousand years ago, on the eastern side of the Mediterranean, a teacher named Jesus of Nazareth climbed a hillside and started teaching people about the Kingdom of the skies—the renewed world God had long promised. For largely poor, oppressed Galilean farmers and laborers, this was good news. The Kingdom of the skies represents a new kind of society where generosity, justice, and peace reign. It’s a world where love is the final word.

THE BIBLE

Matthew 7:1-27, Proverbs 26:4-5, Ezekiel 22:27-31, Matthew 7:24-27

Video 1

Video 2