What does Matthew 11:15 teach about spiritual receptiveness and discernment? Setting the Scene “ ‘He who has ears to hear, let him hear.’ ” (Matthew 11:15) Jesus has just identified John the Baptist as the promised “Elijah who was to come” (v. 14). His call that follows is a summons to pay careful, believing attention to this revelation—and to every word He speaks. What the Phrase Means • “Ears” refer not merely to the physical organ but to an inner capacity to grasp and obey truth. • “Let him hear” is an imperative: accept, internalize, and act upon what has been said. • The statement separates listeners into two groups—those open to God’s message and those closed to it. Spiritual Receptiveness—Key Observations • Hearing, in Scripture, is often synonymous with believing (Romans 10:17). • True hearing involves humility: acknowledging God’s authority over personal opinion (James 1:21). • Receptiveness is a gift yet also a responsibility; we are commanded to “pay much closer attention” (Hebrews 2:1). Discernment—How It Develops 1. Anchoring in revealed truth – “Your word is truth” (John 17:17). Discernment begins with Scripture, not feelings. 2. Dependence on the Spirit – “The Spirit searches all things” (1 Corinthians 2:10). He enables believers to evaluate what they hear. 3. Practiced obedience – “Solid food is for the mature… because of practice” (Hebrews 5:14). Acting on truth sharpens perception. Signs You Are “Hearing” Well • Prompt obedience even when commands challenge comfort. • Growing clarity between truth and error. • Increased hunger for Scripture (1 Peter 2:2). • Evident fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). Practical Ways to Cultivate Listening Ears • Regular, unhurried reading of the Bible; read aloud to involve both mind and body. • Memorize key passages; the stored Word readies the heart to discern. • Silence distractions: limit media intake that dulls sensitivity to spiritual things. • Fellowship with believers who prize biblical truth—error shrivels in the light of collective discernment. • Respond immediately to conviction; delayed obedience stiffens the heart (Hebrews 3:15). Scriptures Reinforcing the Call to Hear • Deuteronomy 6:4—“Hear, O Israel…” Hearing precedes covenant faithfulness. • Isaiah 55:3—“Incline your ear, and come to Me; listen, so that your soul may live.” • Revelation 2:7—“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” The same summons echoes to the end of Scripture. Living It Out Today Matthew 11:15 urges every believer to keep the ear of the heart unclogged. In a culture buzzing with voices, discernment hinges on welcoming God’s authoritative Word and responding without delay. Those who truly “have ears” will listen, learn, and live accordingly—showing themselves genuine disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. |
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