Matthew 7 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of Matthew 7

The Gospel of Matthew was written by the apostle Matthew, also known as Levi, who was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Matthew, a former tax collector, had a unique perspective on the teachings and ministry of Jesus. Matthew records some of the most well-known and influential teachings of Jesus, including the Sermon on the Mount in this chapter. Jesus addresses important topics such as judgment, prayer, and the narrow path to salvation. These teachings provide guidance and wisdom for the followers of Christ, challenging them to live according to God’s will and to be discerning in their relationships with others.

Throughout this passage, we see Jesus emphasize the importance of humility, compassion, and obedience to God’s commands. He warns against hypocrisy and the dangers of false prophets, while encouraging his disciples to seek the narrow gate that leads to eternal life. These teachings are echoed in other books of the Bible, such as the admonition in Proverbs 3:5-6 to “trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

Matthew 7:1-5

Jesus speaks to his disciples about the importance of not judging others in Matthew 7:1-5. Let’s break down the verse into important sections:

1. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” This opening statement by Jesus sets the tone for the following verses. It’s a clear directive to refrain from passing judgement on others. Jesus emphasizes the value of humility and mercy in the context of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus underscores the idea of treating others with compassion rather than condemnation by warning against judgment.

2. “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Here Jesus explains the reciprocal nature of judgment. He teaches that the standards by which we judge others will also be applied to us. This implies that if we are quick to find fault in others, we invite the same scrutiny upon ourselves. This verse stresses the importance of practicing forgiveness and understanding, as we would wish to receive the same treatment from others and from God.

3. “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” This vivid imagery used by Jesus illustrates the absurdity of criticizing others for minor faults while ignoring our own major shortcomings. The “speck of sawdust” symbolizes minor faults or sins, whereas the “plank” represents one’s own major issues or sins that need addressing. Jesus uses this metaphor to highlight the importance of self-reflection and personal growth before attempting to correct or judge others. This passage aligns with the overarching theme of love, forgiveness, and humility in the broader context of the Bible. Jesus consistently emphasized the value of loving one’s neighbor, showing compassion, and extending grace rather than harsh judgment. The Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Matthew 7:12), echoes this sentiment of treating others with kindness and understanding. Jesus calls his followers to a higher standard of moral conduct by cautioning against judgment and urging self-awareness. This teaching challenges individuals to examine their own hearts before casting aspersions on others. It emphasizes the transformative power of humility and self-improvement, reminding Christians to prioritize reconciliation and mercy over condemnation. Believers should adopt a posture of humility and empathy in their interactions with others, as a poignant reminder is served by Matthew 7:1-5. It encourages introspection, self-correction, and a mindset of forgiveness. The timeless message of this passage continues to resonate today, guiding Christians to embody the love and compassion that Jesus exemplified during his ministry on earth.

Matthew 7:6

Jesus states in Matthew 7:6, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs.” If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus imparts teachings on various subjects to his disciples and the crowds gathered around Him. Let’s dissect this verse for a deeper understanding. Jesus uses the metaphor of dogs and pigs to convey a profound spiritual truth in this verse. Dogs and pigs were considered unclean animals in Jewish culture, and the imagery of giving what is sacred to dogs or casting pearls before swine signifies imparting valuable teachings or truth to those who cannot appreciate or understand their worth. This verse in a broader sense warns against sharing the deep truths of the gospel with those who are hostile or unresponsive to it, as they may not only reject the message but also ridicule or harm the messenger.

The underlying message here is the importance of discernment and wisdom in sharing the teachings of the faith. Not everyone is ready or willing to receive the Gospel, and it is crucial to recognize when it is more beneficial to refrain from engaging in fruitless arguments or debates with individuals who have no interest in understanding or accepting the good news. This verse underscores the need for believers to be selective in their interactions and to prioritize sharing the message of salvation with those who are receptive and open to receiving it.

This teaching echoes other passages in the Bible that emphasize the discernment of character and the value of spiritual wisdom. Proverbs 9:7-8 advises, “Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury. Do not reprove a scoffer, or he will hate you; reprove a wise man, and he will love you.” Similarly, in Matthew 10:14, Jesus instructs his disciples, “If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet.” These verses illustrate the importance of recognizing when to share the Gospel and when to exercise prudence in engaging with non-believers. Approach evangelism with discernment, wisdom, and humility as a reminder in Matthew 7:6. While it is essential to proclaim the truth of the Gospel, it is equally important to discern the receptivity of the audience and to avoid unwarranted conflict or hostility. Believers can navigate interactions with others in a way that honors both the gospel message and the call to be wise stewards of God’s truth by being mindful of the wisdom imparted in this verse.

Matthew 7:7-12

Several key sections in Matthew 7:7-12 are crucial for understanding the message Jesus is conveying in his Sermon on the Mount. Let’s break it down step by step for deeper insight.

“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” This verse emphasizes the importance of persistence in prayer and seeking a relationship with God. Jesus is encouraging his followers to actively engage in prayer, to seek the truth diligently, and to have faith that God will answer their prayers. This passage highlights the idea that God is approachable and willing to listen to the needs of His children. It also underscores the concept of divine providence and the belief that God will provide for his followers if they earnestly seek Him.

“For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” This verse reinforces the notion that God is responsive to the prayers of His people. It indicates that God is not distant or aloof but is instead actively involved in the lives of those who call upon Him. This can be a source of comfort and encouragement for believers, knowing that their requests will not go unheard or unanswered. It also speaks to the consistency of God’s character and His faithfulness in fulfilling his promises.

“Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!” Jesus uses a powerful analogy of parental care and love to demonstrate the goodness and generosity of God towards His children. Just as a caring earthly parent provides for the needs of their child, God, who is the epitome of goodness, will give even greater gifts to those who seek Him in faith. This comparison highlights the loving and compassionate nature of God and emphasizes the idea that He desires to bless His children abundantly.

“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.” This verse, commonly known as the Golden Rule, encapsulates the essence of ethical conduct and moral behavior. Jesus is urging his followers to treat others with the same kindness, compassion, and respect that they would like to receive themselves. Jesus sets a standard for interpersonal relationships based on empathy and mutual respect by emphasizing the reciprocity of love and goodwill. This principle aligns with the core teachings of the Bible, emphasizing the importance of love, compassion, and empathy towards others. The passage in Matthew 7:7-12 offers a profound reflection on the nature of prayer, the benevolence of God, and the ethical principles that should govern human interactions. It underscores the importance of faith, persistence, and righteousness in the Christian walk while emphasizing the overarching themes of love, compassion, and reciprocity. Believers reflect on these teachings and strive to apply them in their lives, reminding themselves of the transformative power of God’s love and the call to embody His grace in their relationships with others.

Matthew 7:13-14

Jesus speaks to his disciples about the importance of entering through the narrow gate rather than the wide gate in Matthew 7:13-14. This passage is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus imparts wisdom and teachings to his followers. The message in these two verses is clear – the road to salvation and eternal life is not easy and is often not the popular choice. Jesus describes the wide gate and the broad road that many people choose to follow in the first section. This represents the easy path in life, the one that requires little sacrifice or commitment. It symbolizes the way of the world, where worldly desires and pleasures lead people away from God. The wide gate is appealing because it allows for a life of comfort, indulgence, and conformity to societal norms. However, Jesus warns that this path ultimately leads to destruction. This serves as a reminder that following the crowd or popular opinion may not always be the right choice when it comes to matters of faith and salvation.

On the other hand, Jesus introduces the narrow gate and the difficult road that leads to life. The narrow gate represents the path of righteousness, faith, and obedience to God’s will. It symbolizes the choice to live a life that is centered on God, even if it means facing challenges, persecution, or going against the grain of society. This path requires commitment, self-discipline, and a willingness to endure hardships for the sake of the Kingdom of God. While the narrow gate may not be as inviting or easy to enter, it is the path that ultimately leads to eternal life and communion with God.

These verses emphasize the importance of discernment and decision-making in the Christian journey. It calls believers to be aware of the choices they make and the paths they follow. It’s a reminder that the Christian life is not always easy, but it is ultimately rewarding. The concept of the narrow gate and the broad road is echoed in other parts of the Bible, such as in Proverbs 14:12 which states, “There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death.” This reinforces the idea that not all paths lead to God and that true discipleship requires a willingness to make difficult choices and walk in the footsteps of Jesus.

Matthew 7:15-20

Jesus gives a warning about false prophets in Matthew 7:15-20. Let’s break down this passage into important sections for a deeper understanding.

1. “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” – Here, Jesus is cautioning his followers to be wary of those who may seem harmless or even appear to be part of the community of believers, but whose intentions are harmful. False prophets may look the part externally, but internally, they are deceitful and dangerous. This serves as a reminder for believers to not be swayed by appearances but to discern the true intentions of those who claim to speak on behalf of God.

The concept of false prophets is not new in the Bible. Throughout the Old Testament, there are numerous warnings against false prophets who lead people astray. Deuteronomy 18:20-22 also emphasizes the importance of discerning true prophets from false ones, stating that a true prophet’s words will always come to pass. This passage in Matthew echoes this sentiment, advocating for discernment and caution when it comes to spiritual leaders and teachers.

1. “You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?” – Jesus uses the analogy of fruits to illustrate how one can distinguish between true and false prophets. Just as good trees bear good fruit and bad trees bear bad fruit, false prophets will eventually display their true nature through their actions. This emphasizes the importance of evaluating someone’s character and conduct over time rather than being swayed by charisma or eloquence alone.

This idea of bearing good fruit is a recurring theme in the Bible. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are the fruits of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. A true prophet, guided by the Holy Spirit, will exhibit these qualities in their life and teachings. Believers can discern whether they are following someone who is authentically aligned with God’s will by focusing on the actions and character of spiritual leaders.

1. “So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.” – Through this statement, Jesus reaffirms the principle that a person’s nature will inevitably manifest itself in their actions. Just as a healthy tree naturally produces good fruit, a person who is spiritually healthy will exhibit qualities that are in line with God’s teachings. Conversely, a corrupted individual will exhibit behaviors that are contrary to God’s will.

This notion of inner character being reflected in outward actions is also echoed in Luke 6:43-45, where Jesus talks about good and bad trees producing corresponding fruits. The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of sincerity and integrity in one’s relationship with God and others. Believers can discern whether their teachings and actions align with the principles of the Gospel by evaluating the fruits of their life. Believers should exercise discernment in identifying true spiritual leaders from false prophets, as the passage in Matthew 7:15-20 serves as a profound reminder. Christians can safeguard themselves against deception and stay aligned with the teachings of Christ by focusing on the fruits of a person’s life and ministry, rather than surface-level appearances. This passage underscores the timeless message of sincerity, integrity, and discernment in matters of faith, guiding believers to seek out those whose lives bear witness to the transformative power of God’s love and grace.

Matthew 7:21-23

Jesus speaks about not everyone who calls Him “Lord” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of His Father in Matthew 7:21-23. This section can be broken down into a few key points that hold significant meaning in the context of the Bible. The first part of this passage highlights the importance of professing faith in Jesus Christ as Lord. Many people may outwardly proclaim Jesus as Lord, attend church, and even perform actions that seem to be in the name of Jesus, but Jesus emphasizes that merely saying the words is not enough to secure one’s place in the kingdom of heaven. It is not the mere declaration of faith that matters, but the genuine belief and the subsequent actions that flow from that faith. This speaks to the significance of authentic faith and living out the teachings of Jesus in our daily lives. Jesus is emphasizing that true discipleship goes beyond lip service; it requires a heart transformation that reflects in our actions and obedience to God’s will.

Moving on, Jesus warns about those who may have performed miracles, cast out demons, and done many mighty works in His name, yet He declares He never knew them. This is a powerful reminder that outward displays of religious acts or spiritual gifts are not always indicative of one’s true relationship with God. The key here is the intimate, personal knowledge and relationship with Jesus. It is not just about what we do but who we know and are known by. The Pharisees, for example, were known for their outward displays of religious piety, yet Jesus often rebuked them for their lack of true understanding and relationship with God. This mirrors the importance of sincerity and authenticity in our faith journey.

The final part of this verse where Jesus says, “Depart from me, you evildoers,” is a chilling declaration of judgment for those who practice lawlessness. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of living a life contrary to God’s will. The notion of practicing lawlessness can refer to a life devoid of God’s commandments and moral principles. It underscores the importance of not just performing good deeds or works of power but living a life in alignment with God’s Word. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that true faith produces fruit in keeping with repentance and obedience to God’s commandments (Matthew 3:8). Matthew 7:21-23 serves as a poignant reminder that true discipleship requires more than just outer appearances and religious actions; it demands a genuine heart transformation, a personal relationship with Christ, and a life lived in obedience to God’s will. This passage challenges believers to not just talk the talk but to walk the walk, displaying a faith that is lived out in love, obedience, and authenticity.

Matthew 7:24-27

Jesus shares the parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders in Matthew 7:24-27. Let’s break down this verse into important sections for a thorough understanding of its meaning and significance. Jesus describes a wise man who builds his house on a rock in this section. The wise man’s choice of foundation is crucial because it signifies a solid and stable base for the house. The rock symbolizes a strong and unwavering faith in God. The wise man ensures that his house will stand firm even when faced with challenges such as storms by building it on a rock.

Interpretation and Impact:
This section emphasizes the importance of building our lives on a strong foundation of faith in God. Just as a house needs a solid rock foundation to withstand storms, we need a strong faith in God to navigate through the difficulties and trials of life. This metaphorical imagery teaches us that when we anchor our lives on the unchanging truth of God’s word and His promises, we can stand strong in the face of adversity.

Section 2: Building on Sand
Contrastingly, Jesus describes a foolish man who builds his house on sand. The sand represents an unstable and unreliable foundation. When the storms come, the house built on sand quickly collapses due to its weak foundation. This illustrates the consequences of not having a solid foundation to rely on in times of trouble.

Interpretation and Impact:
This section serves as a warning against building our lives on worldly, transient things that cannot withstand the challenges of life. Just as sand shifts and cannot provide stability during storms, material possessions, wealth, or fleeting pleasures do not offer lasting security in the face of trials. This teaches us the importance of prioritizing spiritual values and eternal truths over temporary comforts and desires.

Section 3: The Impact of the Storm
When the storm comes, both houses face the same trial. The house built on the rock remains standing firm, while the house built on sand collapses. This outcome reveals the wisdom of the wise builder and the folly of the foolish builder in their foundational choices.

Interpretation and Impact:
This final section underscores the ultimate result of our choices in life. When we build our lives on the unchanging truth of God’s word and rely on His strength, we can weather the storms of life. We are setting ourselves up for a collapse when faced with challenges if we place our trust in worldly pursuits and neglect the spiritual foundation. This serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of making wise decisions rooted in faith and obedience to God’s teachings.

The parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders in Matthew 7:24-27 echoes the broader theme of obedience, wisdom, and foundation found throughout the Bible. Proverbs 9:10 affirms that “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” This foundational principle underlines the notion that a life built on reverence for God and His ways leads to true wisdom and enduring strength. The wise builder symbolizes those who not only hear God’s word but also put it into practice (Matthew 7:24). Conversely, the foolish builder represents those who hear but do not act on the teachings of God, leading to a shaky foundation and eventual ruin (Matthew 7:26-27). Believers are ultimately exhorted by the message of this parable to anchor their lives on the unchanging truth of God’s word and to live out their faith in obedience. We can withstand the trials and tribulations of life by doing so, secure in the knowledge that our foundation is built on the solid rock of God’s promises and grace.

Matthew 7:28-29

The crowds were amazed at Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:28-29 because he taught with authority, not like their teachers of the law.” This passage serves as the conclusion to Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, a significant and pivotal moment in his ministry. This sermon, found in chapters 5-7 of the Gospel of Matthew, is considered one of the most important teachings of Jesus and covers a wide range of topics, including the Beatitudes, prayer, fasting, and judging others.

The phrase “When Jesus had finished saying these things” signals the end of the sermon, indicating that Jesus had completed imparting his divine wisdom to the crowds. The reaction of the people is crucial here – they were amazed at his teaching because he spoke with authority, unlike the teachers of the law they were accustomed to. Jesus’ words were not just empty rhetoric or a regurgitation of religious laws; instead, he spoke with a transformative power that resonated deeply with those who listened.

This passage highlights the stark contrast between the religious leaders of the time and Jesus himself. The teachers of the law were often focused on legalistic details and adherence to religious rituals, while Jesus emphasized the importance of the heart, mercy, love, and humility. Jesus demonstrated that he was not just another teacher but the Son of God by teaching with authority, bringing a message that went beyond the outward practices of religion to the inward transformation of the individual.

The impact of Jesus’ teaching style and content on the crowds is significant, as it challenged their preconceived notions and exposed the shortcomings of the religious establishment. Jesus’ authority was not rooted in human tradition or knowledge but in his divine nature as the Son of God. This distinction is crucial for understanding the core message of the Gospel – that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ, who brings a new way of living and thinking that surpasses the limitations of the law. Jesus called his followers to a deeper, more profound commitment to God, contrasting with the teachers of the law who relied on external obedience to rules and regulations. This theme runs throughout the Gospels and is exemplified in verses such as Matthew 22:37-40, where Jesus summarizes the greatest commandments as loving God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, and loving one’s neighbor as oneself. The authority with which Jesus spoke was not authoritarian but compassionate, inviting all who would listen to come and experience the abundant life he offered. Matthew 7:28-29 serves as a culmination of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, demonstrating his authority as the Son of God and inviting people to follow him in a new way of faith and living. This passage challenges us to consider the source of authority in our own lives and to embrace the transformative teachings of Jesus with humility and obedience. We reflect on Jesus’ words and their timeless relevance, amazed at his wisdom and grace, seeking to align our lives more closely with his example of love and truth.

After Matthew 7

Jesus teaches about the importance of not judging others, the power of prayer, and the narrow path that leads to life in this chapter. He warns against false prophets and emphasizes the need to build our lives on a strong foundation. Jesus concludes by illustrating the importance of putting His words into practice, comparing it to building a house on solid rock rather than on sand. Let us reflect on the teachings of Jesus in this chapter and remember the significance of living out His words in our daily lives. Just as a house built on a strong foundation can withstand the storms, so too can our lives be anchored in the truth of His teachings. Let us strive to be doers of the Word, not just hearers.