Spiritual Judgment

Introduction:
Matthew 7:6 is an abrupt conclusion to the first 5 verses in the chapter. Jesus wants us to look for and recognize sin/error—not to condemn—but to help and correct! But, when approaching others—not all will respond favorably. In our text, Jesus describes the gospel as that which is holy. Other passages describe it as “seed,” “treasure,” and “truth.” See Lk. 8:11; 2 Cor. 4:7; John 8:32; 17:17. The gospel is of great value! But, it is futile to try to offer something of great value to someone incapable of appreciating it. (Paul Earnhart, Invitation to a Spiritual Revolution, p. 121)

I. Take Note of Jesus’ Terminology:
    A. With reference to truth—some people are ________ & ___________.
        1. Strong metaphor in His day—to be called a “dog” was a bad thing!
        2. Was a term of __________; _____________; or disgrace!
        3. “Swine” not much better. See picture painted in Lk. 15. (prodigal son)
    B. Was Jesus referring to all believers? ________!
        1. Lk. 4:18-19—Jesus preached to the lost. Mk. 16:15—we to do the same!
    C. Jesus referring to someone who would not ______________ the treasure of the gospel!

II. What is the point of 7:6?
    A. Some….simply do not have “________ to ________.”
        1. Mt. 13:13-14—note how Scribes/Pharisees described!
        2. their spirit or _______ made them incapable of understanding.
            a) Rom. 8:6-8—can make one an _________ of God!
        3. We should look on these w/patience; _______; compassion; and _____________.
    B. Some are _______________ against truth.
        1. 2 Cor. 4:3-4; 2 Thess. 2:10-12
        2. Truth is not taken as _______ but as an ___________!
    C. Don’t waste _________ with those who will not _________.
        1. Acts 8:30-31—we expound on Scripture—others will accept/reject it.
        2. Hardened against it? Mt. 10:11-14—don’t waste time!

III. Some practical principles.
    A. Not everyone will _________ the gospel@
        1. Maybe a _______ ____ or special friend or even a great nation!
        2. We must not be blinded to ____________ or indifference.
            a) other hearts are longing to hear!
        3. Rom. 9:1-3—Paul longed for salvation of ______; but preached to the __________ whose
             hearts were more receptive!
    B. In evangelism—we must recognize different types of __________.
        1. Example of Paul: 1 Cor. 9:19-23.
        2. Must use the most ___________ means as possible!
    C. The ________ & _______ are too precious to waste on those who do not care!

Conclusion:
    A. God has made us ________________ of His word. We need to explain/expound!
    B. Teach those who have open/humble heart. To those who will hear—Rom. 10:17
    C. Are you willing to listen? To consider the condition of your soul? To change?
    D. How’s your heart?
    E. Find the redemptive power within the blood of Christ—through baptism!



Spiritual Judgment Introduction: Matthew 7:6 is an abrupt conclusion to the first 5 verses in the chapter. Jesus wants us to look for and recognize sin/error—not to condemn—but to help and correct! But, when approaching others—not all will respond favorably. In our text, Jesus describes the gospel as that which is holy. Other passages describe it as “seed,” “treasure,” and “truth.” See Lk. 8:11; 2 Cor. 4:7; John 8:32; 17:17. The gospel is of great value! But, it is futile to try to offer something of great value to someone incapable of appreciating it. (Paul Earnhart, Invitation to a Spiritual Revolution, p. 121) I. Take Note of Jesus’ Terminology: A. With reference to truth—some people are ________ & ___________. 1. Strong metaphor in His day—to be called a “dog” was a bad thing! 2. Was a term of __________; _____________; or disgrace! 3. “Swine” not much better. See picture painted in Lk. 15. (prodigal son) B. Was Jesus referring to all believers? ________! 1. Lk. 4:18-19—Jesus preached to the lost. Mk. 16:15—we to do the same! C. Jesus referring to someone who would not ______________ the treasure of the gospel! II. What is the point of 7:6? A. Some….simply do not have “________ to ________.” 1. Mt. 13:13-14—note how Scribes/Pharisees described! 2. their spirit or _______ made them incapable of understanding. a) Rom. 8:6-8—can make one an _________ of God! 3. We should look on these w/patience; _______; compassion; and _____________. B. Some are _______________ against truth. 1. 2 Cor. 4:3-4; 2 Thess. 2:10-12 2. Truth is not taken as _______ but as an ___________! C. Don’t waste _________ with those who will not _________. 1. Acts 8:30-31—we expound on Scripture—others will accept/reject it. 2. Hardened against it? Mt. 10:11-14—don’t waste time! III. Some practical principles. A. Not everyone will _________ the gospel@ 1. Maybe a _______ ____ or special friend or even a great nation! 2. We must not be blinded to ____________ or indifference. a) other hearts are longing to hear! 3. Rom. 9:1-3—Paul longed for salvation of ______; but preached to the __________ whose hearts were more receptive! B. In evangelism—we must recognize different types of __________. 1. Example of Paul: 1 Cor. 9:19-23. 2. Must use the most ___________ means as possible! C. The ________ & _______ are too precious to waste on those who do not care! Conclusion: A. God has made us ________________ of His word. We need to explain/expound! B. Teach those who have open/humble heart. To those who will hear—Rom. 10:17 C. Are you willing to listen? To consider the condition of your soul? To change? D. How’s your heart? E. Find the redemptive power within the blood of Christ—through baptism!