Jana, I would say those things mentioned in verse 22 are good, but they can be done with the wrong motivation. Real Christian fruitfullness is a grace of the Holy Spirit , in Gal 5:22 it says "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness" Also In verse 23 Jesus characterizes them as "workers of lawlessness", so they disregard the law of God (so while they may prophesy and cast of demons, they also lie, steal, lust, fornicate, commit adultry, covet, etc.)

So much great teaching in this chapter that comes straight from the mouth of the creator of the universe. Also, some of the most frequently abused and misunderstood texts in the whole Bible. A lot of stuff here that unbelievers and poorly discipled/taught Christians use out of context. It is critical that we have a good understanding of what Jesus was really teaching in order to be able to accurately represent his teaching when we have opportunities to witness to those in our circles of influence.

One more thing: I'm trying to understand the "Then" aspect of this chapter. The way that Jesus was presenting these concepts: 1. Look at yourself before you Judge others, 2.Come boldly before God and give Him your requests as a child to a Father, 3. Salvation is more than just outward appearance, it is total heart-submission. Would these concepts have been totally radical to the people listening to them? And is this part of the reason that the Pharaisees were so upset with Jesus, or was that only based on the fact that Jesus claimed to be God?

I like how vv. 7-11 are surrounded by context of how God looks at the heart and not the outward words/works. Asking for something must be done with the willingness to want my wants to line up with God's will. I must be willing to accept whatever His answer is, whether or not it is the answer I wanted. (Just like I expect my own children to accept my answer when they come to me.) But the other thing that strikes me is that this section always reminds me of Matt. 6:25-34. Not only does God sustain us (and the whole world) just because He is God, but He takes it a step further and is personally and intentionally involved in our lives! AND that he delights in blessing us! That floors me! That truth humbles me in the light of my own sin and unworthiness!

I would say that verses 13-27 provide some of the strongest motivation for why I am in ministry. So many are deceived. They may look good on the outside but they are trusting in their works and never have their heart changed. But I am also impacted (along with some of you) by verses 7-11. What an amazing promise. I'm with you Noah. Let's ask and keep asking God to save many of those who are deceived.

I think vs. 21-23 are some of the scariest words in Scriptures. People can look fruitful and genuine on the outside, but only God knows their hearts.

Love Jesus' illustration in vv. 24-27! What a comfort to know that when we build our lives on God's Word we are building our lives upon a solid rock! It also provides a great warning to those we witness to of the inevitable destruction that will come as a result of ignoring Jesus' words.

Such a great reminder that our heart is the issue. Many will do much yet not belong to Christ. I am a little confused by this though because wouldn't those things in v22 have been considered good fruit?

As a father, I understand wanting to give good things to my children. It humbles me to think how much God wants to bless His children, to bless me. Not necessarily materially, but spiritually. I need to do more asking for sure.

I like the "ask and it will be given to you;" cuz I am always asking and I know He knows best!

It's astonishing to consider and re-read the chapter in the context of the final two verses: "28 And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, 29 for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes."

Encouraged by v.7-11 concerning prayer, something I so easily forget. Also very challenged by v.13-14. Not only a good reminder that I should expect the narrow way to be difficult, but also reminded of my lack of sympathy for those on the broad way that are on their way to destruction. If God gives us what we ask, let's ask for salvation.

To say I know Him is one thing, but to truly know Him is another. For the Triune God to say I never knew you is astonishing to me. In reading Proverbs 9, verse 10 stood out. Truly a lot to chew on in this discourse concerning the sermon on the mount....the greatest sermon ever taught in my opinion

The girls were cracking up when I read them the part about having a beam or log in your eye.

So much important teaching. False, self deceived disciples, false teachers. You can't see a teacher's heart but you can see the fruit of his life. You can't know your own heart, but you can see if you still walk in your sins. Uncomfortable, but Truth is better than comfort.

I am always amazed at God's Word - it is always applicable to what is going on in my own heart when I read it!

Amazing that you can prophesy in Jesus' name, cast out demons in Jesus' name, and do many mighty works in Jesus' name, and yet still not belong to Jesus. Isn't this the typical cry of the false religionist--"look what I've done?"