The story is told of a Bible class teacher who was telling her Bible class the parable of the good Samaritan.  She described in great detail how this man was brutally beaten, robbed, and left for dead on the side of the road.  Then she asked her class, "What would you do if you saw a person lying on the side of the road, wounded and bleeding and barely alive?  A little boy broke the thoughtful silence by saying, "I think I'd throw up!"

Well, I'm not sure that's exactly the kind of reaction that Jesus is looking for, but one thing is for sure...the teachings of Jesus call for a reaction.  We're not to be hearers only, but doers of the word (James 1:21).  The teachings of Jesus should stir us to action.  His word is not to be viewed simply as noble platitudes.  Rather, his word should challenge our ethics, rebuke our shortcomings, and encourage our spirits, and instruct us in doctrine.

Friends, don't walk away from a study of the word of God without making personal application.  Remember, what was written, was written for our learning (Romans 15:4).