Kingdom Wisdom Part 8 Discussion Guide

This guide accompanies Kingdom Wisdom Part 8, preached at Keys Vineyard from Matthew 7:21–23. Jesus warns that religious words, activity, and accomplishment cannot replace a real, abiding relationship with Him.

Summary

In Matthew 7:21–23, Jesus gives a sobering warning: saying “Lord, Lord” and doing impressive things in His name are not the same as knowing Him. The sermon places these verses in the larger context of Matthew 7, where Jesus has presented two gates, two roads, two destinations, and two kinds of fruit.

The central invitation is not to become busier in order to earn God’s approval. The Father’s will begins with looking to the Son, believing in Him, and living under His loving reign. As Jesus teaches in John 15, fruit comes from remaining in Him. The sermon summarizes this truth simply: life is received, not achieved.

Intro Prayer

Jesus, thank You for inviting us into real relationship with You. Help us move beyond merely knowing the right words or doing religious activity. Search our hearts, teach us to remain in You, and let Your life form Your love, grace, humility, patience, and trust within us. Amen.

Ice Breaker

What is one activity, habit, or relationship that requires consistent time and attention in order to grow? What happens when someone tries to maintain it only through occasional effort or outward appearances?

Key Verses

Matthew 7:21–23 — Jesus warns that not everyone who calls Him “Lord” knows Him or does the Father’s will.
John 6:40 — The Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him has eternal life.
John 15:4–5 — Jesus calls His followers to remain in Him, because apart from Him they can do nothing.
John 17:3 — Eternal life is described as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He sent.
1 Corinthians 13:1–3 — Even remarkable gifts, knowledge, faith, and sacrifice amount to nothing without love.

Questions

What words, phrases, or ideas from Matthew 7:21–23 stand out to you most? Why do you think Jesus’ words can feel so weighty?
How does the larger context of Matthew 7—two roads, two kinds of fruit, and now two approaches to Jesus—help us understand this passage?
What is the difference between knowing the language of faith and knowing Jesus Himself? What are some good things that can become substitutes for relationship with Him?
Jesus’ warning includes people who point to prophecy, deliverance, and miracles done in His name. Why is visible spiritual activity not necessarily the same as spiritual intimacy?
According to John 6:40, where does doing the Father’s will begin? How does this guard us from believing that we must earn a relationship with God through activity?
Read John 15:4–5. What does it mean in practical terms to remain in Jesus during an ordinary week? What might make abiding difficult?
The sermon distinguishes between obedience that flows from relationship and obedience used as an attempt to earn relationship. How have you seen that difference in your own life?
Jesus says, “I never knew you.” How does John 17:3 help clarify that eternal life is relational? What encouragement does this offer to sincere believers who struggle, repent, and keep returning to the Lord?

Life Application

Set aside intentional time this week to be with Jesus, not merely to accomplish something for Him. Talk with Him honestly, listen for Him, and spend time in Scripture. Then choose the next right thing He places before you.

Consider praying this simple prayer each day: “Jesus, I do not just want to do things or good things. I want to know You and live from Your life.”

If your group would benefit from ongoing worship, prayer, and community, explore the ministry life of Keys Vineyard. For further biblical study, the Online Bible Institute offers resources for growing deeper in Scripture.

Key Takeaways

Saying the right things about Jesus is not the same as knowing Jesus.
Impressive spiritual activity is not a substitute for spiritual intimacy.
The Father’s will begins with looking to, trusting, and believing in the Son.
Obedience is the fruit of relationship with Christ, not a way to earn it.
Jesus calls His people to remain in Him, because Kingdom life and fruit are received from Him.
Life is received, not achieved.

Ending Prayer

Father, thank You that You invite us to know You through Your Son. Forgive us for the times we have measured our spiritual lives only by activity, achievement, or appearance. Teach us to remain in Jesus and to receive life from Him. Form His character in us so that our lives increasingly reflect His love, grace, humility, patience, and trust. Help us say yes to Jesus again today and follow Him. Amen.

For church leaders seeking practical encouragement and coaching for healthy ministry, visit Church Consultant.

Kingdom Wisdom Part 8 with Discussion Guide