SERMON 20: “THE GOLDEN RULE”

SERMON APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. In Matthew 7:7-8, Jesus says, “For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and the one who knocks it will be opened.”  In the context of 7:1-12 in particular, and the Sermon on the Mount in general, what specifically are we to pray for? (Hint: It is not for provisions, employment, health, or family).

2. According to Luke’s gospel, 11:9-13, the giving of the Holy Spirit is seen as the answer to our asking, seeking and knocking.  Why is it imperative that we have the Holy Spirit to “flesh out” the principles of kingdom living? 

3. Describe the distinction between the Holy Spirit indwelling the true believer at the moment of salvation (once and for all event) and the work of the Holy Spirit within us to empower or fill us daily for Christian service (many times throughout the Christian life).

4. Jesus argues from the lesser to the greater to underscore God’s promise to provide for us all that is needed to live godly in this present evil world. Using our Lord’s rationale (7:9-11), explain why we can trust our Father in heaven to provide all we need to seek His kingdom and His righteousness.

5. Matthew 7:12, is affectionately referred to as “the Golden Rule.”  Treat others the way you want to be treated. What is the one word that describes how we want to be treated? We want to be ____________!

6. How does “the Golden Rule” fulfill “the law and the prophets”? (Matthew 22:37-40).

7. What is the standard by which God measures our love for Him? (1 John 3:14; 4:19-21).

8. The context of 1st Corinthians 13:4-7 is a church that is at war with one another. Infighting among the membership was the norm at Corinth. Using the love statements in the above passage, apply them to those in the church or abroad who take advantage of you or mistreat you.