Listen carefully as if his words are for you, whether you are in a group or alone

Wait until you are sure you already know enough before paying close attention

Treat Jesus' words as mainly for outsiders, not for committed followers

Listen only in private devotional time, because public teaching is less personal

If you would like to receive Jesus, pray this with me: Lord Jesus, I admit that I have sinned and I need your mercy. I turn from my sin and believe that you died for me and rose again. I confess you as Lord, and I ask you to make me your follower and to teach me to hear your voice. Forgive me, lead me, and receive me as your own. Amen.

Lord Jesus, Make Me Yours

Lord, you spoke to the crowds and to your disciples. Speak again to your Church. Revive our attention, humble our hearts, and make us eager to listen together and obey together. Keep us from distraction and from thinking your word is for someone else. Awaken us to hear you with faith, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Wake Your Church to Listen

Lord, thank you that you spoke to the gathered people and to your disciples. Thank you that your words are not only for a few but for all who will hear. Help me value your voice, receive it with gratitude, and follow what you say, in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Thank You for Speaking to All

Pray by naming one place where you tend to hear Jesus' words, such as church, Scripture reading, or a small group. Ask God to help you listen as if you truly belong there, then ask for one clear step of obedience.

Listen Like a Disciple

Bring these before God: distraction, familiarity with Jesus' words, pride that thinks you already know enough, and a desire to be a true learner wherever he speaks.

A Teachable Heart

Pray for people who hear Jesus only from a distance, for new disciples who need courage to keep listening, and for leaders who teach his words clearly and faithfully.

For Hearers and Followers

Τότε{TO-te###TOH-teh###Then} ὁ{ho###hoh###(the)} Ἰησοῦς{ee-ee-SOOS###ee-ee-SOOS###Jesus} ἐλάλησεν{e-LA-lee-sen###eh-LAH-lEE-sehn###(He) spoke} τοῖς{TEES###TEES###to the} ὄχλοις{O-khlees###OH-khlees###crowds} καὶ{KE###KEH###and} τοῖς{TEES###TEES###to} μαθηταῖς{ma-thee-TES###mah-thee-TEHS###disciples} αὐτοῦ{af-TOO###ahf-TOO###his}

Matthew 23:1 — Audio GuideTAB

More on this verse