(Matthew 7:24-27, Luke 6:46-49)
This parable is Jesus’ conclusion to the “sermon on the mount.” The Master used three comparisons to show the necessity of obeying His words; two ways (Matthew 7:13), two trees (and their fruit, vs. 17), and two builders and their houses, vv. 24f.
The last comparison makes it plain that what “counts” with God is what a person does – not merely what one professes.
The hill country of Judæa has many gullies and dry washes caused by runoff from heavy rains. In summer, these shady spots are cool and inviting, but during the fall rainy season, they quickly fill with torrents of flood water that destroy everything in their path.
One builder chose such a site for his house, apparently without considering the inevitable disaster his carelessness would produce. He could safely enjoy his house during the dry season, but when the rains began there would be no way to protect its foundation. The other builder understood that planning and preparation were essential to building a secure house, and thus searched for a solid construction site. By choosing a solid ledge of bedrock, he insured that his house could weather fall and winter storms safely, as well as being able to enjoy the breezes of spring and summer.
It might seem ridiculous (to us) for a man to build a house on a dry creek bed, but the absurdity of the image is precisely the point of this parable. This is Jesus’ most pointed lesson about obedience. His words in Matthew 7:24 (and Luke 6:46) emphasize that He is the only guide for our souls, and they proclaim that all people must obey Him to be saved: No other way is given (note also Matthew 7:21-23).
Jesus’ words require obedience. Many enjoy hearing God’s word, but turn sour if what they hear is not what they want to do. Failing or refusing to obey is a real danger for all, and one reason we don’t “do” is that we fail to act immediately. ·
- Sunday afternoon is a traditional time of rest for many, but Sunday’s resolve is often “buried” by Monday’s problems and challenges!
- When reminded of something we should do, we would be wise to do it right then; it probably won’t get done if we wait for “tomorrow.”
Jesus’ words demand action. Some people don’t act when they hear because they don’t want to be “inconvenienced,” like the foolish builder who refused to “waste” time finding a solid foundation. When we obey only if it is easy or convenient, we become foolish builders! Our Lord understood that HIS “job” was not to make our lives easy, but to save our souls. The way of Christian duty is not always easy.
Jesus’ words urge foresight. The foolish builder didn’t look ahead. It may be true that “hindsight is 20/20,” but Christians should concentrate on foresight!
Jesus’ words forewarn us. Testing shall come for each of us because “sunny weather” never lasts! Jesus used very strong words; rain “poured down” on the houses, wind “beat” against them, the flood “roared against” their foundations; the time of testing came to both houses (i.e., all are tried alike). If it seems absurd for a man to build a house in a creek bed, just remember that people often believe and do in religion things they would never consider in business or other areas of their lives! When the storm ended the foolish man knew exactly where his mistake lay; he had neglected the single most important part of his house. No matter how great the rest of it was, without a proper foundation the only “sure” thing about it was the greatness of its fall.
Our lives are like these houses: Built with care and purpose on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ through obedience to His words, they can stand all trials. If we ignore His way, however, we build in vain (Psalm 127:1).
-Dave Rogers
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