5. Jesus spoke God's truth in everyday language.

Jesus told stories, using words and illustrations they could understand. He knew them uniquely. He often spoke to them individually. It was one of the things that made him so attractive to so many. Matthew 13:34 says, “Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable.”

Through his parables and stories, the people heard Jesus gladly. He went where they were. He spoke in their setting. As we look at his ministry style, we learn ways we can be more effective in our witness and ministry.

Too often today, Christians develop their own religious jargon. As we offer the Good News, we need to be sure people understand. Today’s text, Matthew 7:15–29, is a good example of Jesus teaching in the common vernacular of everyday life. “Watch out for false prophets,” Jesus said. He then said you will know them by the way they act, even as you know a tree by its fruit.

In a second illustration, Jesus taught about building on a firm foundation, applying that illustration to those who listen to his teaching and build their lives on godly truth. Those who would ignore the Lord’s teaching are foolish, as one who builds his house on unstable sand (verses 24–27). These common illustrations from everyday life spoke easily and directly to the people.

    --Dr. David New, Reedsport Church of God, Oregon

Lord God, As we talk with others about how amazing you are, keep us away from the religious jargon of "churchy" insiders. Help us to clearly, eagerly, simply explain how you have transformed our lives.

As we are involved in media (TV, net, games, movies), help us become insightful viewers. Help us to question the spoken and unspoken implications of plot, characters and visual images -- if they might draw us away from you. Meanwhile, keep us tuned in, alert for scenes, stories and modern visual parables which can communicate your deeper truths.

. In Jesus name we pray. Amen