How important it is to have a solid foundation when building a home? Any good construction manager would never let you cut costs in this area because a solid foundation is crucial to a solid building. In the parable of the wise and foolish builders, we will see just how important a firm foundation in Christ is for the believer’s continued growth.
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What is the Meaning of the Wise and Foolish Builders?
A parable is usually described as an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. In the book of Matthew and Luke, the authors write down the ending words of Jesus after he completed the Sermon on the Mount. Everything that Jesus shared came to an end that day and the meaning of the wise and foolish builders was included to help us be obedient to all the instructions given. It’s not enough to hear what’s being said if the change is not evident.
The story of the wise and foolish builder’s bible verse is found in the book of Matthew 7:24-27. Jesus told the story of the wise man building his home upon a rock ensuring his foundation was solid while a foolish man built his house on the sand/dirt giving no thought about his foundation. When the same horrible storm arose in their neighborhood their outcomes were very different. The wise man’s house was still intact while the foolish man’s house fell to pieces.
Jesus wants us to listen to his voice and advice but most importantly to obey and do what he says. He gave many parables before the wise and foolish builders and each one is important in its own right. The true followers of Jesus are those who strive to live in obedience to God’s word. They are not just God’s true followers but wise as well. As believers, we can give ourselves much work to do thinking that each one is pleasing to God but servicing acts is not more vital than allowing God’s word to dictate the way we live.
This parable of the two foundations is not so much about building a physical foundation, it is to show that our security should lie in Jesus. If we adhere to the advice given and invest in a spiritually solid foundation the storms of this life won’t cause us to fall but remain solid in Jesus.
Lessons from the Parable of the Two Foundations
There is much to be learned from this parable. Jesus shared knowledge with everyone but some allowed it to take root in their heart while others agreed but didn’t apply it. The difference between a fool and someone wise is simple: obedience to the truth.
Listening Is No Good Without Obedience
James, the half-brother of Jesus Christ shared the same message in his epistle. It is not enough to just hear the word; we should do what it says (James 1:22). What good is it to listen to sound advice but don’t put it into practice? You’re right, it’s no good. Jesus compares the one who refuses to put good advice to use to a foolish man that builds a house without a proper foundation. Do what the Bible says, don’t just read it and not let it dictate the way you live.
You Need a Solid Foundation
Another lesson from the wise and foolish builders is the importance of having a solid foundation. This is true when one is constructing a building but most importantly when one is building treasures in heaven. In the previous verses of chapter 7 of Matthew, Jesus indicates the importance of having a true relationship with him not built on good works. In the parable, the solid foundation was a rock. Jesus is our rock in times of uncertainty, sadness, and especially during storms. With him as our solid foundation, there is no need to be afraid of the storms that are sure to arise.
Jesus Should Be our First Priority
When a builder begins building a home, the first thing he does is dig a deep foundation. The higher the building the deeper the foundation is needed. The believer is also supposed to build a deep foundation in the Lord Jesus Christ and this is why he should be our first priority. Our first priority after becoming a new creation in Jesus Christ is to spend quality time in his Word and in prayer. This is how we can ensure that our foundation is deep and secure.
Life is Full of Storms
Storms are all around us. They can be physical, emotional, and natural. Being a believer doesn’t exclude us from storms. Even the Psalmist has often thought that the wicked seem more prosperous than the saints. What we know is God allows the rain to fall on the good and the bad. Life is full of storms but the one who is able to see us through is the solid rock. Jesus is the cornerstone and we can depend upon him to see us through.
The Wise and Foolish Builders Parable – Final Thoughts
“Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.” (Matthew 7:24-27) (NLT)
The wise and foolish builders’ bible verses are found in Matthew 7:24-27 and Luke 6:46-49. After the famous sermon on the mount/plain message given by the Lord Jesus Christ, we find this truly remarkable nugget of advice. It is folly to not listen and act on what Jesus shared. It is wise to have him as your foundation and also the Holy Word of God that bears all truth. The Bible is our manual for life and it always points us to Christ.
Listen to the advice given by the Lord in his word so you can be wise and not foolish.
What can you do, right now, to utilize the teachings of Jesus in your life? Is there something you need to work on? Maybe there is a friend you can challenge or join with to follow God’s advice more.
Related Posts and Resources:
- Bible Studies for Women
- How to Study the Parables of Jesus
- Meaning of the Parable of the Talents
- Bible Verses About Complaining
Meet the Author:
Yaneke is a Jamaican blogger and freelance writer who loves the Scriptures and gets excited about God’s word. When she’s not writing, you can find her singing/songwriting, or cleaning up after her three children! You can find more from her at her blog.