This is the manuscript of the sermon preached at Christ Church Los Angeles Memorial Day weekend May 25, 2025.
Scripture
Matthew 7:15-29 NIV [15] “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. [16] By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? [17] Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. [18] A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. [19] Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. [20] Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. [21] “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. [22] Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?’ [23] Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’ [24] “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. [25] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. [26] But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. [27] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.” [28] When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, [29] because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.
Memorial Day
Before we dive into our message today, let's briefly acknowledge the upcoming Memorial Day tomorrow. While it's often seen as the unofficial start of summer—a time for visiting the graves of loved ones, barbecues, beaches, and family gatherings—its origins are far more somber and significant. It's also important to remember that Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is not to be confused with Veterans Day, which falls in November.
Memorial Day began in the years following the American Civil War, a conflict that claimed more lives than any other in our nation's history. It originated as "Decoration Day," a time when communities, both North and South, would adorn the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers. The first widespread observance was in 1868, called for by General John A. Logan as a day for the nation to remember its war dead. Over time, it evolved from honoring Civil War casualties to commemorating all Americans who died in military service, finally becoming a federal holiday in 1971. It's a sacred day set aside to remember and honor the immense sacrifice of those who gave their lives for our freedoms.
Text
Matthew 7:24-27 NIV [24] “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. [25] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
I. Introduction
Have you ever felt like life is just… shifting? Like you're constantly trying to keep your balance on unsteady ground? We live in a world that often feels chaotic, unpredictable, and demanding. We're pulled in so many directions, chasing after the next big thing, the quick fix, the fleeting pleasure.
As I've been reflecting lately, both in my own life and in observing the world around us, it's become clearer than ever that what truly sustains us through every single season – through the calm and the storms – is a strong foundation in faith and a deep, unwavering commitment to aligning our priorities with God's will.
This isn't just a one-time decision, a quick prayer, or a simple checkbox. This is a continuous, ongoing process, a lifelong journey that demands regular self-reflection, consistent effort, and, most importantly, an open heart to God's continuous, loving guidance. So, today, we're going to explore what it truly means to build our lives on this solid foundation.
II. The Imperative of a Strong Foundation
Think about building a house. If you were investing your life savings, your future, into constructing a home, would you ever consider building it on unstable ground, or on a flimsy base? Of course not! You'd insist on digging deep, pouring concrete, and laying a rock-solid foundation that could withstand anything. You'd want assurance that your home would stand firm. Think about all the homes lost in the Pacific Palisades and Altadena fires. The houses burned but the foundations remained.
Jesus Himself, the wisest builder of all, tells us this, and it's our text for today.
Matthew 7:24-27 NIV [24] “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. [25] The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
Elaboration: Our spiritual lives are no different. The storms of life will come. Hardship, disappointment, illness, loss, uncertainty. It's not a question of if, but when. And when they come, what will you be standing on? A shaky, self-made ideology? The fleeting trends of our culture? Or the eternal, unshakeable truth of God's Word and His character?
The wise person, Jesus says, is the one who not only hears His words but acts upon them. Jesus’ words, the Word of God, that’s our foundation.
III. Components of Building on Rock
1: Hearing AND Doing God's Word
So, how exactly do we build this rock-solid foundation? It starts with the very first step Jesus mentions: hearing God's word and putting it into practice.
Matthew 7:24 Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
It’s so easy to be a hearer only, isn’t it? We read our Bibles, we listen to sermons, we attend conferences and attend Bible Study and all of that is good and necessary! But if that knowledge doesn't translate into action, into transformed living, then we're missing the main message.
James 1:22-25 NIV[22] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. [23] Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror [24] and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. [25] But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
In other words, our actions, our words, and our thoughts should align with the transformative truth of the Gospel.
To "just listen" implies a superficial interaction. We might hear the words, understand their intellectual meaning, and even agree with them in principle, but stop there. It's like listening to a lecture on how to swim without ever getting in the water. We can nod our heads, but we won't learn to swim.
The key phrase here is "Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.." This isn't about deceiving others, but deceiving ourselves. We might think we are growing, or that we are righteous, or that we are aligned with what we believe, simply because we are exposed to the "word." However, if there's no corresponding action, this belief is a mirage. We create an illusion of spiritual maturity or moral integrity that doesn't actually exist.
Familiarity with concepts can breed a false sense of accomplishment. We might know all the right verses, participate in discussions, attend services, and Bible study, but if these don't translate into tangible changes in our attitudes, decisions, and behaviors, then our knowledge is useless. It's like having a detailed map but never leaving the house.
This means seeking wisdom, understanding His commandments, and making choices that truly reflect His character, not just our own desires.
Don’t just listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
Ask yourself “Am I a doer of the Word, or just a hearer?” Am I actively applying what I read and hear and learn to my relationships, my finances, my work, my leisure, my inner thoughts?
2: Aligning Our Priorities with God's Will
The first component to building a rock solid foundation is hearing God's word and putting it into practice. The second crucial component is aligning our priorities with God's will.
This is one of the most challenging aspects in our lives today. The world constantly pulls us in a thousand different directions. We're bombarded with messages about what we "should" pursue: more wealth, higher status, fleeting pleasures, instant gratification. It’s like a relentless current against which we have to swim. But when we consciously choose to prioritize God, everything else begins to fall into its rightful place.
Jesus gives us an incredible promise.
Matthew 6:31-34 NIV [31] So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ [32] For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. (here’s the promise) [33] But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. [34] Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
When we put God first – His kingdom, His way of doing things, His justice, His love – He promises to provide for our needs and guide us in all things.
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
I realize that this is a radical trust, a letting go of our own perceived control, and an embrace of His perfect plan. But here’s what happens when you have this radical trust.
Jeremiah 17:7-8 NIV [7] “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. [8] They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”
Here's that scripture again;
Romans 8:28-30 NIV [28] And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
Here's another familiar but very true one.
Philippians 4:6-7 NIV [6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
3: Regular Self-Reflection and Openness to Guidance
Finally, building on rock requires regular self-reflection and an openness to God's guidance. This isn't a "set it and forget it" process it is a constant, continuous one.
Self-Reflection: We need to honestly and prayerfully assess where we are. What's taking up our time, our energy, our deepest affections? Do those things truly honor God and advance His kingdom? Are we holding onto things that are hindering our spiritual growth – habits, attitudes, relationships? Are our actions truly reflecting our professed beliefs?
We must take an honest look at ourselves.
2 Corinthians 13:5 NIV Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
This self-examination isn't about self-condemnation, but about growth and refinement, like a spiritual diagnostic check-up.
But remember when we do that self diagnostic check-up we must be absolutely open to God's guidance. God speaks to us in countless ways – through His Word, through prayer, through the wise counsel of other believers, and through the quiet, persistent promptings of the Holy Spirit.
This means committed prayer, actively listening for His voice, studying His Word, and being willing to be led even when it's uncomfortable, unfamiliar, or goes against our own plans.
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV [5] Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; [6] in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
IV. Conclusion and Call to Action
Building a strong foundation in faith is a continuous process. It's not about being perfect, it's about consistently seeking God, repenting when we fall short, and trusting in His unending grace.
The rewards of building on this rock are immeasurable. We get peace and we get purpose:
Peace: We get a peace that the world cannot give, even in the midst of chaos.
The peace the world gives is often superficial, conditional, and fleeting. It's dependent on circumstances – the absence of conflict, financial security, good health, comfortable living situations. It's an external peace that can be easily disrupted by troubles, anxieties, and changes in life. It's often temporary, not a deep, abiding tranquility.
John 14:26-27 NIV[26] But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. [27] Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
The peace that Jesus offers is internal, spiritual, and goes beyond circumstances. It's not the absence of trouble, but it’s the presence of God's calm and assurance in the midst of trouble. It's a peace that comes from knowing God, trusting in His sovereignty, and having reconciliation with Him through Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:18-21 NIV [18] All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: [19] that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. [20] We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. [21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
This peace allows a person to remain untroubled and unafraid even when faced with fear, loss, or persecution. It's a gift of the Holy Spirit, guarding our hearts and minds.
Philippians 4:4-7 NIV [4] Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! [5] Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. [6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
I said that our rewards for building on rock also include purpose.
Purpose: I'm talking about a clear, God-given purpose that gives meaning to every moment.
Even in difficulties, there's a divine purpose at play for "those who are called according to His purpose." This overarching purpose gives meaning to all things, even the challenging moments, because they are being woven into a larger good by God.
Romans 8:28-30 NIV [28] And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. [29] For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. [30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
The rewards of building on this rock include, peace, purpose, then there’s
Unshakeable Hope: A hope that extends beyond this life, rooted in eternity.
This speaks of a "living hope" that comes through Christ's resurrection, directly connecting it to life beyond death. The "inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven" vividly describes a hope rooted in eternity, secure and beyond the decay of this life.
1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV [3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, [4] and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, [5] who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.
Call to Action/Challenge:
Today, I want to challenge each of us: Are you building on the rock or on sand?
Are you merely a hearer of the Word, or a doer?
Are your priorities truly aligned with God's will, or are you chasing the temporary?
Are you regularly examining your heart and opening yourself fully to His guidance?
Let's commit, starting today, to deepen our foundation. Spend time in His Word, reflect on your life, seek His presence in prayer, and be obedient to His leading.
Final Encouragement: The storms will come. But when your house is built on the rock, it will stand. And not just stand, but flourish, glorifying Jesus, the one who is our true and eternal foundation.
Let’s pray. Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word, which is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. We thank You, Jesus, for being the Rock of our salvation. Lord, help us to be not just hearers, but doers of Your Word. Help us to align every priority, every thought, every action with Your perfect will. Give us the courage to self-reflect and the humility to be open to Your guidance. May our lives be built on Your unshakeable truth, so that when the storms come, we stand firm, giving You all the glory. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.
