Sermon Summary
Practicing the Way: A Rule of Life - Build Your Life
What does it truly mean to build a life that can withstand life's fiercest storms? In this powerful message, Pastor David unpacks Jesus' compelling parable of two builders from Matthew 7, revealing how our foundation determines our fate when trials come. Through vivid imagery of hurricane-ravaged structures, he illustrates that while we're all building our lives on something—whether achievement, approval, possessions, or religious routine—only a foundation built on Christ and His ways will endure. Drawing from his personal spiritual practices, Pastor David demonstrates how intentionally developing a "rule of life"—daily Scripture reading, prayer walks, Sabbath rest, and authentic community—helps anchor our souls in Jesus. He challenges us to move beyond merely appreciating Jesus' teachings to actually living them out, warning that unintentional building inevitably leads to collapse. With urgent compassion, he calls the church to examine their life's foundation and establish concrete spiritual rhythms that will enable them to stand firm when storms rage, knowing that while trials are inevitable, a life built on Christ can withstand any tempest.
Sermon Questions
Week 8: Practicing the Way - 11/2/2025
In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus talks about two builders - one who built on rock and one who built on sand. What do you think Jesus means when He says we need to not just hear His words, but do them?
What specific areas of your life do you find it challenging to move from just knowing what Jesus teaches to actually living it out?
Pastor David mentioned several false foundations people build their lives on - achievement, approval, possessions, and religious routine. Which of these do you think is most tempting for people today and why?
What foundation have you been tempted to build your life on instead of Christ, and how has that impacted your spiritual journey?
What is a 'rule of life' and why might it be important for developing spiritual disciplines?
What specific spiritual practices or rhythms could you incorporate into your daily life to strengthen your foundation in Christ?
How does intentional community play a role in building a strong spiritual foundation?
What steps could you take to deepen your involvement in Christian community beyond surface-level interactions?
Why is it important to build a strong spiritual foundation before the storms of life come?
What current practices in your life are either strengthening or weakening your spiritual foundation for future challenges?