In Matt. 7:24-29, we find Jesus telling the parable of the two builders. The wise builder built his house on the rock while the foolish builder built his house upon the sand. When the storms came, the house built on the rock stood firm against the winds and rain. It had a solid foundation. But the house built on the sand collapsed in ruin as its shifting foundation was washed away.

But this was a parable. Jesus was not really making a point about where we should build our houses, but using that as an illustration of an important spiritual truth. He was picturing two different lifestyles, represented by the two houses. The storms illustrate various problems and crises that we all face, including that final struggle as we face death itself. What makes the difference between standing or failing?

Not effort. At least in this case, the effort put into building was the same for each builder. Just because life is busy does not mean it is, or will be, successful.

Not the storms. The storm fell equally upon each house. Whether we are disciples of Jesus or not, we will still face stormy times in our lives.

The difference was the foundation! One life was built on a sure and solid foundation while the other was not. Jesus says the house which stood illustrated a life built upon the foundation of obeying His word. A life lived like this endures forever while the other is washed away into eternal ruin. Build you house on the foundation of the Lord!

By Jon W. Quinn
The Front Page
From Expository Files 15.6;  June 2008

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