Gregg Matte, Senior Pastor of Houston’s First Baptist Church, taught on Matthew 7:24-29, where Jesus finishes the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus teaches the people that he is the solid rock and a firm foundation, unlike anything else we may attempt to build upon.

// SUMMARY
In Matthew 7:24–29, Jesus ends the Sermon on the Mount by describing two builders. Both hear his words and both face storms, but only one stands. The difference isn’t the size of the storm, but the strength of the foundation.

A firm foundation is built on salvation and wisdom, knowing Jesus personally and obeying his Word. A feeble foundation is built on foolishness, hearing but not applying. We can’t avoid storms, but we can choose what we’re standing on. When our lives are built on Jesus, the solid rock, we’ll stand firm no matter what comes.

// KEY TAKEAWAYS
Firm foundations are built on salvation and wisdom.
Feeble foundations come from hearing without obeying.
Wisdom isn’t just knowing, it’s doing.
Don’t wait for a storm to open your Bible.
You can’t avoid storms, but you can choose your foundation.

// APPLICATION QUESTIONS
What’s the difference between hearing Jesus’ words and acting on them?
In what area of your life are you building on sand instead of rock?
What keeps you from “opening the owner’s manual” and spending time in God’s Word? Discuss with your community group how they can provide accountability.
How has a past storm revealed the strength (or weakness) of your foundation? Pray together with your group, praising God for the foundation he’s given and confessing where you’ve looked to other “foundations.”
What’s one step of obedience you can take this week to build on the rock of Christ?