EXCLUDED! (Matthew 7)

When have you missed out on something you really wanted? When have you been excluded from a group or activity of which you had hoped to be a part?

What kinds of people get excluded from God's kingdom? Why?

Have different people read each of the following sections of Matthew 7:

• verses 13-14
• verses 15-20
• verses 21-23
• verses 24-27

Each of these passages highlights a kind of person who is "right" and a kind of person who is "wrong". Use the following questions to discuss what it means to be right with God and what it means to be wrong with God.

What do you think is the "narrow gate" which leads to life? Why do you think Jesus calls it "narrow"? How have you experienced or observed that the narrow way is "difficult"?

How would you describe the "wide gate" and the "easy road"? Do you think many church attenders are following the wide road? Why or why not?

What is some of the bad fruit you might see in someone which indicates an unhealthy heart?

Read Galatians 5:22-23. Have each person talk about which of these fruits they would like to develop in their own life.

Read verse 23. Why do you think Jesus will reject some who claim to have done their works in his name? What does someone have to do in order to be "known" by Jesus?

Think about the entire sermon on the mount (or scan it quickly) in Matthew 5-7. As a group, make a list of the lifestyle characteristics which form a solid foundation for life.

What are the temporary things people often build their lives around? Why do these things "wash away" in the storms of life?

What has God been talking to you about as we've worked through this passage? What are your goals for the coming week?

How can we help you and pray for you?