Collide - When Belief is Not Enough

Founded in Truth Fellowship - Bible Teachings and Sermons

Collide - When Belief is Not Enough
This Bible teaching from Founded In Truth Fellowship, delivered by Matthew Vander Els, centers on the crucial distinction between simply hearing and believing the words of Jesus Christ (Yeshua) and actually putting those words into practice. Drawing primarily from the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew chapter 7, the message emphasizes that true faith is demonstrated through action and obedience. The teaching argues that intellectual assent or mere belief is insufficient for building a life that can withstand the inevitable "storms" of life and contribute to the Kingdom of God.

The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders

The core of this teaching lies in the parable told by Yeshua about two builders. One builder, described as wise, hears the teachings of Yeshua and puts them into practice, choosing to build his house on a rock. The other builder, considered foolish, also hears these same words but fails to act upon them, constructing his house on sand. When the storms come – the rain, the rising streams, and the beating winds – the house built on the rock stands firm because of its solid foundation. In contrast, the house built on sand collapses with a great crash.

This parable, according to the teaching, illustrates two fundamental responses to the entirety of Yeshua's sermon. It highlights that hearing and implementing the teachings are what differentiate a wise person from a foolish one. The speaker points out that both builders heard the same words, making the crucial difference their subsequent actions.

Beyond Mere Belief

The teaching stresses that simply believing in Yeshua, affirming doctrinal opinions, or possessing theological knowledge is not enough. Many may claim to know Yeshua and even point to miraculous deeds, but if they have not actively done what He commanded, He may not acknowledge them. Belief is presented as a necessary starting point, the "launchpad" for a believer, but not the ultimate goal or destination. The speaker emphasizes that true followers of Yeshua are identified by their actions, by their heartfelt allegiance demonstrated through the way they live their lives.

The Metaphor of Storms and the Rock

The sermon delves into the rich biblical metaphor of storms, winds, and rain, which often represent the difficulties, temptations, trials, and even the judgment of God. Just as literal storms threaten a physical house, the "storms" of life challenge the foundation of a person's existence. The teaching connects this imagery to Old Testament passages, such as God's judgment on Nineveh and the struggles faced by David, where waters symbolize chaos, danger, and enemies.

Conversely, the rock is consistently presented as a symbol of God's strength, protection, and an unshakable foundation. David, in the Psalms, refers to God as his rock and fortress. Similarly, Yeshua is identified as the only true and solid foundation upon which to build a life. The wise builder, therefore, is one who aligns his life and actions with the teachings of Yeshua, establishing a foundation that can withstand any storm.

Being the Hands and Feet of Yeshua

The teaching calls believers to actively participate in the Kingdom of God, becoming the "hands and feet of Yeshua" in the world. This involves more than just personal piety; it requires an outward focus, seeking opportunities to serve, sacrifice, and love others. The speaker emphasizes that the Kingdom of God is not just a future hope but is also present now, and believers are called to demonstrate its reality through their actions.

This active participation reflects the very nature of Yeshua's ministry, which was characterized by service and self-sacrificial love. Following Yeshua means putting aside selfishness, using one's time, resources, and abilities to help others, even when it is inconvenient or challenging. Examples of such practice include acts of kindness, generosity, service to the marginalized, and a willingness to lay down personal comfort for the sake of others.

The goal is not merely to have one's sins forgiven but to be transformed and equipped by God's Spirit to participate in the renewal and recreation of the world. Believers are called to be emissaries of the Kingdom, showing the world what God's love, peace, and justice look like in tangible ways.

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Application for Everyday Life

• Actively practice the teachings of Jesus: Don't just hear or agree with what Yeshua said; make a conscious effort to implement His commands and principles in your daily life.
• Prioritize doing over merely knowing: Focus on putting your faith into action rather than just accumulating knowledge or holding correct beliefs.
• Examine your foundation: Regularly assess whether your life is built on the solid rock of Yeshua's teachings or the shifting sands of worldly values and inaction.
• Be outwardly focused: Look for opportunities to serve and love others in your community, family, and even among strangers.
• Embrace sacrificial love: Be willing to give your time, resources, and comfort to meet the needs of others, following the example of Yeshua.
• Participate in the Kingdom now: Understand that the Kingdom of God is not just a future reality, and strive to bring its values of love, justice, and mercy into the present world through your actions.
• Don't be hindered by fear or inconvenience: Serving God and others may not always be easy or comfortable, but obedience and action are essential.
• Start with your immediate community: Look for ways to serve and build up your local fellowship and family.
• Pursue peace, stability, and love: Intentionally work towards these qualities in your relationships at home, work, and in the wider community.
• Be a living sacrifice: Embrace a lifestyle of continually offering yourself and your resources to God for the advancement of His Kingdom.

References

Matthew 7:24

Matthew 7:25

Matthew 7:26

Matthew 7:27

Matthew 7:29

Romans 10

Psalm 18

1 Corinthians 3:10

1 Corinthians 3:11

Hebrews 11:1

Books and Resources Mentioned

• Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church by N.T. Wright

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