Mat 7:7-11 | PNT | STEP | Ask, . . . seek, . . . knock . The terms are here used with reference to prayer, and these constitute a climax. "Ask" implies a simple petition. "Seek" indicates an earnest search. "Knock" shows perseverance in spite of hindrances. The three represent earnest prayer.

Matthew 7:7-11

Ask, . . . seek, . . . knock. The terms are here used with reference to prayer, and these constitute a climax. "Ask" implies a simple petition. "Seek" indicates an earnest search. "Knock" shows perseverance in spite of hindrances. The three represent earnest prayer. For every one that asketh receiveth, etc. Every one of the class concerning whom the Savior speaks. That class is those who can say, "Our Father in heaven; Hallowed be thy name; Thy will be done" (Mt 6:9,10). If his son shall ask bread, will he give him a stone? The assurance of an answer to prayer is based on the fact that God is our Father. He treats his children as a good and wise earthly parent would. No kind parent would mock his child by answering his cry for bread with stones. Bread and fish were the chief articles of food of the Galilean peasant. If ye then, being evil. Men who have the natural affection of parents, even though sinful men, will not do such things. Whoever believes that the term "Father", as applied to God, is more than a figure of speech, must believe in prayer.

Give good gifts. Lu 11:13, in the parallel passage, says, instead of "good gifts", "the Holy Spirit", as though this is heaven's greatest blessing.