Why is understanding the context of Jesus' teachings important?

The context in which Jesus delivered His teachings is crucial for proper interpretation. In Matthew 5, we see that Jesus, upon seeing the multitudes, retreated to a mountain to teach His disciples. This significant detail indicates that His messages, including the promises found in Matthew 7:7-8, were meant exclusively for those who followed Him, highlighting the importance of a relationship defined by obedience and faith. Misapplying these teachings to unconverted sinners can lead to grave misunderstandings of God's grace and the nature of true discipleship. His promises are geared toward those who have, by the Spirit, been given the ability to seek after Him and establish a relationship grounded in faith.