This morning we continue in our study through the gospel according to Matthew as we consider Matthew 7:1-12. Jesus teaches us that instead of judging others with a harsh condemnation or a prideful posture, we are to seek to humble ourselves and have discernment. Jesus invites us to prayer and dependency upon our Father who is in heaven. We are to ask, seek, knock, and expect good gifts as children of God. Finally, we are to treat others the way we would like to be treated. In humility, we are to count others as more significant than ourselves and seek to do good to them. As Jesus says, "So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets" (Matthew 7:12).In our natural condition, we are self-centered. We can find it far easier to see other peoples flaws and weaknesses as greater than our own. There is something wrong with our hearts. We have pride, self-centeredness, and sinful hearts. Jesus asks, "If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!" (Matthew 7:11). The message of the gospel is that we are so flawed that Jesus had to die for us, yet we are so loved and valued that Jesus was glad to die for us. The gospel brings humility and love. If you see yourself apart from the grace of God, as evil, as in need of grace, you'll live like you're not better or worse than anyone else. If you see yourself as loved by God, you don't have to posture yourself as better than others and can be freed from the insecurity and fear that leads you to judge and condemn others. Jesus, the perfect pearl, was trampled, attacked, rejected, and mocked. He was pierced for the transgressions of his people. Jesus was crushed for the iniquities of his people. By his wounds, we are healed. In the love and grace of God, we can be empowered and transformed from the inside out and live out the Gold Rule.

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