Where in the Bible does it say 'knock and the door will be opened'?

The phrase "knock and the door will be opened" is found in the Gospel of Matthew, specifically in Matthew 7:7-8. This passage is part of the Sermon on the Mount, a collection of teachings by Jesus that covers a wide range of moral and spiritual topics. The full verses read as follows:

"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened." (Matthew 7:7-8, ESV)

This passage is rich in meaning and provides profound insights into the nature of prayer and the relationship between humanity and God. Let's delve deeper into the context and implications of these verses.

Context of the Sermon on the Mount

The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7) is one of the most significant discourses of Jesus recorded in the New Testament. It begins with the Beatitudes, which describe the attitudes and characteristics of those who are blessed in the Kingdom of Heaven. The sermon then continues with teachings on a variety of subjects, including the fulfillment of the Law, love for enemies, giving to the needy, and the Lord's Prayer.

In Matthew 7, Jesus addresses the nature of judgment and discernment, and then He moves into a discussion about prayer. The verses in question (Matthew 7:7-8) are part of this section on prayer. They emphasize the importance of persistence and faith in our relationship with God.

Understanding "Ask, Seek, Knock"

The three actions mentioned—asking, seeking, and knocking—are progressive steps in approaching God. Each action represents a deeper level of engagement and commitment in our spiritual journey.

Ask: Asking is the simplest form of prayer. It involves bringing our requests and needs before God. Jesus encourages us to ask with confidence, knowing that God is a loving Father who desires to give good gifts to His children. This is further emphasized in Matthew 7:11:

"If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!"

Seek: Seeking goes beyond asking. It implies a deeper desire and effort to find something valuable. In the context of prayer, seeking involves a more earnest pursuit of God's will, presence, and guidance. It is a reminder that our spiritual journey requires active participation and dedication.

Knock: Knocking represents the most persistent and determined action. It suggests a continual effort to gain access and enter into a deeper relationship with God. Knocking at the door implies that there is an obstacle or barrier that needs to be overcome, and it requires perseverance and faith.

The Assurance of God's Response

Jesus assures us that those who ask will receive, those who seek will find, and those who knock will have the door opened to them. This promise highlights the faithfulness and generosity of God. However, it is important to understand that God's responses may not always align with our expectations or desires. God's wisdom and love ensure that He gives us what is ultimately best for us, even if it differs from our immediate requests.

In his book "The Pursuit of God," A.W. Tozer writes about the importance of seeking God with a sincere and devoted heart. He emphasizes that the desire to know God must be the driving force behind our prayers and actions:

"To have found God and still to pursue Him is the soul’s paradox of love, scorned indeed by the too-easily-satisfied religious person, but justified in happy experience by the children of the burning heart."

Tozer's words remind us that our pursuit of God is a lifelong journey that requires both passion and persistence.

The Role of Faith and Trust

Faith and trust are essential components of effective prayer. When we ask, seek, and knock, we must do so with the belief that God hears us and will respond according to His perfect will. Hebrews 11:6 underscores the importance of faith in our relationship with God:

"And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him."

Trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty allows us to approach Him with confidence and peace, even when we do not immediately see the answers to our prayers.

Practical Application

The teaching of "knock and the door will be opened" has practical implications for our daily lives. It encourages us to be persistent in prayer and to cultivate a deep and abiding relationship with God. Here are some ways to apply this teaching:

1. Consistent Prayer: Make prayer a regular and consistent part of your daily routine. Set aside dedicated time to communicate with God, bringing your requests, praises, and concerns before Him.

2. Earnest Seeking: Go beyond surface-level prayers and seek a deeper understanding of God's will and presence. Study the Scriptures, meditate on God's Word, and seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

3. Persistent Faith: Do not be discouraged if you do not see immediate answers to your prayers. Trust in God's timing and continue to knock with perseverance and faith.

4. Community Support: Engage with a community of believers who can support and encourage you in your spiritual journey. Share your prayer requests with others and pray together as a community.

Conclusion

The phrase "knock and the door will be opened" from Matthew 7:7-8 is a profound reminder of the importance of persistence, faith, and trust in our relationship with God. It encourages us to actively seek God's presence and guidance, knowing that He is a loving Father who desires to bless and provide for His children. As we ask, seek, and knock, may we do so with confidence and a deep desire to know and follow God's will for our lives.