Honor CHRIST - Luke 19:28-48 - March 26, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Honor CHRIST – March 26, 2006

This is lesson 4 in our series “CHRIST Followers.”

In our series of study, we have considered:
o Put CHRIST First – Our love and commitment to CHRIST should be first when compared to all other relationships. The key is to let our relationship to CHRIST make CHRIST first place in our life, not us trying to perform to be acceptable to CHRIST. When CHRIST is first in our life all other relationships fall into place. When CHRIST is first through an interactive relationship with HIM, the dross of wrong notions and expectations about JESUS are skimmed away. What remains is a pure relationship built upon knowing HIM and not just knowing about HIM. Then all else falls into proper place and perspective such as:
o Keep Praying – Prayer is essential and we should have persistent prayer lives.
o Celebrate When People Come to CHRIST – Salvation is the reason CHRIST came to earth and we need to allow GOD to develop the same attitude in us for reaching others.
o Honor CHRIST – Our relationship to CHRIST is vital in serving CHRIST obediently.

How can we honor CHRIST?
v Accept HIM as our SAVIOR and allow HIM to be THE LORD of our life.
v Once we become a Christian we know the truth. We reflect the light of CHRIST which is within us to draw others to HIM. We are the light of the world.
v We are the salt of the earth. Why salt? Because salt makes one thirsty and we should make those around us thirsty for our new found relationship with the living LORD in our life.
v Walk as THE HOLY SPIRIT leads us each moment of our life.
v Read, memorize and study HIS WORD.
v Maintain an active prayer life with our LORD.
v Fellowship with HIM to get to know HIM more intimately.
v Obey HIM.

These are a few things which come to mind. The key is it is not us reaching up and trying to please GOD. It is not performance. It is obedience. It is allowing HIM to control our life in order to build an intimate loving relationship with HIM. This means yielding our will to HIM and spending time with HIM through reading HIS word, praying and fellowshipping with HIM. If we sense that our relationship with HIM is being hindered, we should ask HIM to examine our hearts and reveal anything which prevents us from having the best possible relationship with HIM.

The events of our study take place during the last week of JESUS earthly ministry. JESUS enters Jerusalem in an act of peace by riding upon a donkey. The disciples are excited that JESUS is coming to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. Before this week is over the disciples who are cheering HIM have deserted HIM and even denied HIM. But we know the rest of the story.

HIS death is to pay the penalty for the sins of all mankind. If JESUS had only died and we could visit a tomb containing HIS body, then we could question HIS being GOD’S SON. The resurrection of JESUS is the proof that HE is THE SON of GOD, THE MESSIAH. JESUS sent THE HOLY SPIRIT back to indwell us as the security deposit that we will know in our hearts that HE is THE TRUTH and THE LIFE and no one comes to THE FATHER except through HIM. It broke the heart of JESUS that the religious leaders did not recognize HIM as the promised MESSIAH.

Our background scripture is Luke 19:28-48.

As already mentioned, this is the last week of JESUS’ earthly ministry. HE is destined for THE CROSS. HE is near Bethany. Bethany is where JESUS’ friends, Mary, Martha and Lazarus live. JESUS raised Lazarus from the dead just the week before HE enters Jerusalem. So the story of this miracle spread like wildfire.
After the resurrection of Lazarus, the Sanhedrin decided that JESUS had to die.

John 11:47-53:

47 So the • chief priests and the Pharisees convened the • Sanhedrin and said, “What are we going to do since this man does many signs? 48 If we let Him continue in this way, everybody will believe in Him! Then the Romans will come and remove both our place[4] The temple or possibly all of Jerusalem and our nation.” 49 One of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all! 50 You’re not considering that it is to your[5] Other mss read to our advantage that one man should die for the people rather than the whole nation perish.” 51 He did not say this on his own, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus was going to die for the nation, 52 and not for the nation only, but also to unite the scattered children of God. 53 So from that day on they plotted to kill Him.

Most of us have notions about JESUS formed by our parents, attending church, attending Bible studies, discussing or listening to other Christians, etc. These notions shape our expectation and attitude we have toward JESUS. In our study today we will see that the disciples had formed their expectations of JESUS. Some of the disciples had a more intimate relationship with HIM because they had traveled and lived with HIM during HIS ministry. HIS chosen 12 had their own notions and expectations of JESUS and what HE would do.

So when these conceived notions or expectations are not met, then we become discouraged and loose faith.

When we form unrealistic expectations of JESUS, we too are disappointed when our expectations are not achieved. This is one reason we need to ask CHRIST to reveal and dispel any thing that prevents us from having a solid, healthy relationship with HIM.
As you may recall our lesson on prayer, HOW MUCH MORE will our FATHER give us good gifts when we ask.

Our problem is we try to define the good gifts. Our FATHER will never give us something which will harm us. The most prized gifts are salvation, grace, THE HOLY SPIRIT and eternal life. There are many other gifts of THE SPIRIT which GOD manifests through us. These along with other gifts are designed to help us develop an intimate loving relationship with HIM and obediently serve HIM. Keep in mind; we were not created for time but for eternity.

The folks in our lesson today had a relationship with CHRIST but it was driven by their own idea of the outcome. Thus by the end of this week most were disappointed in JESUS and many rejected HIM.

We have been blessed to have the Bible which we can read on our own to see the plan of GOD unfold from its pages as THE HOLY SPIRIT reveals it to us. WOW!!!

Let’s read Luke 19:28-40:
The Triumphal Entry
28 When He had said these things, He went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. 29 As He approached Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the • Mount of Olives, He sent two of the disciples 30 and said, “Go into the village ahead of you. As you enter it, you will find a young donkey tied there, on which no one has ever sat. Untie it and bring it here. 31 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ say this: ‘The Lord needs it.’ ” 32 So those who were sent left and found it just as He had told them. 33 As they were untying the young donkey, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying the donkey?” 34 “The Lord needs it,” they said. 35 Then they brought it to Jesus, and after throwing their robes on the donkey, they helped Jesus get on it. 36 As He was going along, they were spreading their robes on the road. 37 Now He came near the path down the Mount of Olives, and the whole crowd of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the miracles they had seen: 38 Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord.[10] The words the King are substituted for He in Ps 118:26. [11] Ps 118:26 Peace in heaven and glory in the highest heaven! 39 Some of the • Pharisees from the crowd told Him, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples.” 40 He answered, “I tell you, if they were to keep silent, the stones would cry out!”

JESUS instructs two (2) of HIS disciples to go ahead of HIM to find a donkey and a colt (Matthew) upon which no one has ever ridden. Now that is interesting. I did not know JESUS was a bronco rider. I am just kidding.

In the Old Testament young animals which had never been yoked or worked were used for sacred duties. Now a donkey would be taking the King of King’s into Jerusalem.

The disciples were obedient and as JESUS had instructed they found the donkey. As they are untying it they were asked by its’ owners what they were doing? They answered as JESUS had instructed them.

I think JESUS was teaching obedience to HIS disciples, which is also a lesson for us today. When dark times come, practice in the dark what you learn in the light. Easy to say, hard to do but it is true.

The disciples placed their garments on the donkey to form a saddle and helped JESUS onto the donkey.

What is the significance of the donkey?

When a city was conquered, the conqueror rode into that city on a horse to claim victory. If the conqueror rode into the city on a donkey that signaled he was coming in peace. The donkey was considered a noble animal and often ridden by a king.

When JESUS entered Jerusalem riding on a donkey, HE was sending a signal to HIS followers, the Romans and the religious leaders that HE was entering on a mission of peace. HE was not entering Jerusalem to drive out the Romans and be a political ruler but HE was entering as THE PRINCE of PEACE.

JESUS rode on a donkey to fulfill the prophesy of the Prophet Zechariah that the MESSIAH would come into Jerusalem riding on a donkey.

Zechariah 9:9:

“ 9 Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout in triumph, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your King is coming to you; He is righteous and victorious,[7] Or and has salvation humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.[8]” Isa 62:11; Mt 21:5; Jn 12:15

JESUS riding into Jerusalem on a donkey coupled with all the miracles JESUS had performed should have been clear confirmation to the religious leaders that JESUS is the promised MESSIAH. Their own agenda would not allow them to see it.

The Scribes and Pharisees prided themselves in studying and knowing the scriptures but they were looking for a political ruler to relieve them of Roman rule so they could continue business as usual. A political solution would have been temporary. JESUS came to deliver mankind from sin and the penalty of death which would be eternal.

1 Corinthians 2:8:
8 None of the rulers of this age knew it, for if they had known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.[3]

GOD’S ways are not our ways and HIS thoughts are not our thoughts. GOD’S ultimate plan is always carried out. GOD did not prevent the religious leaders from recognizing who JESUS was.

Nicodemus was a religious leader, a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin, yet he became a secret follower of CHRIST and tradition has it that he became a Christian after the resurrection.

GOD sent HIS ONLY SON, WHO was sinless and no other person in the universe could qualify to deliver mankind from sin and death. In exchange for HIS life, HE gives all who believe in HIM forgiveness, grace and eternal life.

The religious leaders were the very people eagerly awaiting the arrival of THE MESSIAH but they rejected JESUS. It is no wonder JESUS wept as we see in the following scripture.

JESUS was establishing a new covenant.

Let’s read Luke 19:41-44:
Jesus’ Love for Jerusalem
41 As He approached and saw the city, He wept over it, 42 saying, “If you knew this day what [would bring]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. peace—but now it is hidden from your eyes. 43 For the days will come on you when your enemies will build an embankment against you, surround you, and hem you in on every side. 44 They will crush you and your children within you to the ground, and they will not leave one stone on another in you, because you did not recognize the time of your visitation.”

JESUS’ heart is broken. GOD sent JESUS to the Jews first and they rejected HIM. JESUS also knows the destiny of the Jews, their children, their families and Jerusalem itself in a few years. Utter destruction would come to Jerusalem in 70 AD.

Destruction is the destiny of all who reject JESUS today and it still breaks HIS heart!
JESUS gets angry and cleans house, so-to-speak, because the religious leaders have turned HIS FATHER’S house into a den of thieves.

Let’s read Luke 19:45-48:
Cleansing the Temple Complex
45 He went into the • temple complex and began to throw out those who were selling,[12] Other mss add and buying in it 46 and He said, “It is written, My house will be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves!”[13] Isaiah 56:7; Jr 7:11 47 Every day He was teaching in the temple complex. The • chief priests, the • scribes, and the leaders of the people were looking for a way to destroy Him, 48 but they could not find a way to do it, because all the people were captivated by what they heard.[14] Lit people hung on what they heard

During the last few days of JESUS’ earthly ministry, HE enters the Temple and sees that it has been turned into a business. The religious leaders are keeping out the very people who need the most help. JESUS becomes angry and cleans house.

As I thought about the cleansing of the Temple the thought came to me, as a Christian, since the death, resurrection and ascension of CHRIST our body has been made the Temple of THE HOLY SPIRIT. GOD indwells us. Every place we place our feet becomes Holy ground because of the presence of GOD in us. We are HIS Ambassadors, HIS representatives. The question is, “Do we need to ask CHRIST to cleanse our Temple of any thing which prevents us from serving HIM fully or blocking our relationship with HIM?”

As we approach this Easter, may it be a time for the renewing of our commitment to serve CHRIST by yielding our will to HIM. We need to ask HIM to search our hearts and reveal any thing in our life that could hinder us from having the best possible relationship with HIM.

Psalm 139:23-24 says it best: 23 Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. 24 See if there is any offensive[9] Or idolatrous way in me; lead me in the everlasting way.

Celebrate When People Come To CHRIST - Luke 15:1-32 - March 19, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Celebrate When People Come To CHRIST – March 19, 2006

This is lesson three (3) in our series ‘CHRIST Followers.”

Our background scripture is Luke 15: 1-32

The word sin means “to miss the mark.” The Pharisee’s used the term “sin” in an exclusionary way, meaning those who “missed the mark” were not living up to “their” standards. This can happen in churches today. We have to be careful that we do not judge another Christian based upon where we are spiritually.

GOD judges the heart; we tend to judge based upon outward appearances.

We need to keep in mind that GOD sets the standard. All Christians are sinners saved by grace. We all come from different walks and circumstances in life. We as Christian people have a tendency to judge other Christians based upon where we are spiritually and socially. In others words we are more accepting to others who are more like us.

GOD judges the heart and all of us come to JESUS the same way, by way of THE CROSS. Some of us Christians may not have to struggle with breaking free from old habits or addictions to sex, pornography, drugs, alcohol, stealing, lying, a bad environment and the list goes on. When a brother or sister comes to CHRIST we all need to pray for each other because all of us will encounter challenges in life. Satan will do everything he can to lure us back into a lifestyle that will compromise our testimony and faith in CHRIST. We tend to measure others by their habits which may not have anything to do with salvation but our prejudices.

When a member of our family, a friend, an influential person, a famous movie star or famous athlete accept CHRIST we rejoice. Also in prison ministry, when prisoners accept CHRIST, we rejoice. But what about a convict who is a pedophile who has hurt someone you know? Wow! This hit home with me.

I shared this with a dear friend who has and is working with people with various addictions. He made an interesting statement. Yes, a person with such an addiction is your brother or sister in CHRIST, just remember when you pray with them, keep your eyes open. He did not mean just pedophiles but anyone who is dealing with an addiction, we have to ask some very hard questions of them and hold them accountable for not slipping back.

As we study these parables JESUS is leading the righteous Pharisees to a spiritual conclusion. HE uses numbers to get HIS point across. First the parable where 100 sheep are involved and 1 sheep gets lost or 1 out of a 100; Then 1 out of 10 in the parable about the lost coins; Then 1 out of 2 with the parable of the lost son. These parables show the importance of the one (1) in need, regardless of the reason – the sheep wandered off on its’ own, the coin had nothing to do with itself being lost and the son made a decision to escape and get lost.

We all do dumb things but guess what? OUR FATHER STILL LOVES US EVEN WHEN WE DO DUMB THINGS. HE EITHER COMES LOOKING FOR US OR WAITS UNTIL WE DECIDE TO COME BACK TO HIM!!!!

I have heard it expressed, “If you do not feel as close to GOD as you once did, guess who moved?” GOD is always right where we left HIM waiting for us to return to HIM.



Let’s read Luke 15: 1-7:
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
1 All the tax collectors and sinners were approaching to listen to Him. 2 And the • Pharisees and • scribes were complaining, “This man welcomes sinners and eats with them!” 3 So He told them this parable: 4 “What man among you, who has 100 sheep and loses one of them, does not leave the 99 in the open field[1] Or the wilderness and go after the lost one until he finds it? 5 When he has found it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders, 6 and coming home, he calls his friends and neighbors together, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, because I have found my lost sheep!’ 7 I tell you, in the same way, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous people who don’t need repentance.

Verses 1-2 tell us that JESUS was willing to associate with anyone, regardless of their social status, who wanted to listen and associate with HIM. CHRIST came to earth to call sinners to HIM not those who think they are righteous. The religious leaders got very upset with JESUS as expressed in the term “This man” in verse 2, which was intended to show their contempt. JESUS not only associated with these outcasts, based on the standards of the Pharisees, but HE even ate with them. Eating with them denoted acceptance and an intimacy the Pharisees thought repulsive.

JESUS in an effort to open the spiritual eyes of the Pharisees told them three (3) parables.

In HIS first parable, HE uses a common event to which most, if not all, could relate. A shepherd has 100 sheep but he discovers that 1 sheep is missing. The shepherd leaves the 99 and goes to search for the 1 lost sheep. He finds the sheep and is so happy that the shepherd has to celebrate by calling in his friends and neighbors for a party.

JESUS uses the celebration of finding the lost sheep to drive home the fact that GOD loves every human who repents of their sin and is safely back in the fold of GOD’S love and care.

In fact all of heaven breaks out in celebration. If all heaven celebrates one sinner repenting, this should motivate the righteous Pharisees to go seek the lost and bring them into a right relationship with GOD, rather than shun them. This pleases GOD.

Let’s read Luke 15:8-10:
The Parable of the Lost Coin
8 “Or what woman who has 10 silver coins,[2] Gk 10 drachmas; a drachma was a silver coin = a • denarius. if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? 9 When she finds it, she calls her women friends and neighbors together, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, because I have found the silver coin I lost!’ 10 I tell you, in the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels over one sinner who repents.”

In this parable the coin has no mind of its’ own and has no control over it destiny. Yet it is lost. There are times through no fault of their on, a person is lost and they don’t even know it. But guess what? The one responsible for the coin knows the coin is missing and does all he can to find it and when he does, it is celebration time.

No one comes to CHRSIT unless GOD calls then. GOD calls every person to salvation. It is GOD WHO seeks and presents HIMSELF to us. GOD can use other Christians to witness to other people but a witness is only effective when GOD calls. We do not know who GOD is calling; it is our responsibility to be obedient to what GOD wants us to do. Some of us may plant a seed of GOD’S Word. We may, so-to-speak, do some watering, weeding, and digging around fertilizing or harvesting. All humans have to make a decision; do I accept or reject HIM?

Again JESUS makes it clear that there is celebration in heaven when even one sinner repents.

Let’s read Luke 15:11-32:
The Parable of the Lost Son
11 He also said: “A man had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate I have coming to me.’ So he distributed the assets[3] Lit livelihood, or living to them. 13 Not many days later, the younger son gathered together all he had and traveled to a distant country, where he squandered his estate in foolish living. 14 After he had spent everything, a severe famine struck that country, and he had nothing.[4] Lit and he began to be in need 15 Then he went to work for[5] Lit went and joined with one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to eat his fill from[6] Other mss read to fill his stomach with the carob pods[7] Seed casings of a tree used as food for cattle, pigs, and sometimes the poor the pigs were eating, but no one would give him any. 17 When he came to his senses,[8] Lit to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired hands have more than enough food, and here I am dying[9] The word dying is translated lost in vv. 4–9 and vv. 24,32. of hunger![10] Or dying in the famine; v. 14 18 I’ll get up, go to my father, and say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. 19 I’m no longer worthy to be called your son. Make me like one of your hired hands.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father. But while the son was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion. He ran, threw his arms around his neck,[11] Lit He ran, fell on his neck and kissed him. 21 The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight. I’m no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 “But the father told his • slaves, ‘Quick! Bring out the best robe and put it on him; put a ring on his finger[12] Lit hand and sandals on his feet. 23 Then bring the fattened calf and slaughter it, and let’s celebrate with a feast, 24 because this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found!’ So they began to celebrate. 25 “Now his older son was in the field; as he came near the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 So he summoned one of the servants and asked what these things meant. 27 ‘Your brother is here,’ he told him, ‘and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf because he has him back safe and sound.’[13] Lit him back healthy 28 “Then he became angry and didn’t want to go in. So his father came out and pleaded with him. 29 But he replied to his father, ‘Look, I have been slaving many years for you, and I have never disobeyed your orders, yet you never gave me a young goat so I could celebrate with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your assets[14] Lit livelihood, or living with prostitutes, you slaughtered the fattened calf for him.’ 31 “ ‘Son,’[15] Or Child he said to him, ‘you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and rejoice, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ ”

JESUS goes from 100 sheep, to 10 coins and now to 2 sons.

The man has two (2) sons and the younger son wants his inheritance NOW! He is not willing to wait for his father to die. He wants it now. He could have asked for a gift but no he wanted his part of his father’s estate now. According to Jewish law, he was entitled to one-third of what his father owned.

His father granted the young sons request. The son converts any real property into cash and immediately leaves home.

He goes to the far country or foreign country. Children get fed-up with parental authority and want to get as far away for their parents as possible. This young man was no different. But soon his wealth has vanished and on top of having no money a famine hits the land where he is living. He cannot find employment which allows him to live in the lifestyle to which he is accustomed. He is hungry and will do anything he can to eat. So he finds a job slopping hogs. This is about as low as it gets for a Jewish boy. He doesn’t earn enough to even buy him a descent meal, so he resorts to eating the pig’s food, which is another step downward.

He tries to hold out but eating pig’s food is just not for him. His thoughts go back to how life used to be when he lived in the comfort of his father’s house. He says to himself, “Gee, even my father’s hired servants eat better than this.” He is at a crisis in his life. It is decision time. I have a plan. I will go back home and ask my father to forgive me and to hire me as one of his servants. I will confess to my father that I was wrong and ask him to forgive me. If my father rejects me, I just do not know what I will do. Boy did I mess up by leaving home. Dad was upset when I left but he is a good man, I hope he will forgive me. It is worth a try. So this young man begins his long journey home.

As he gets within a few hours of home he thinks, “Oh, I think I will rest. No, I must go on. I know I can make it home by early morning. Oh my feet hurt so badly and I am so tired and hungry. I must continue on.” As the sun graces a new day with the most beautiful sunrise he has ever seen, he sees the farm in the distance. Again he says to himself, “I can see the smoke rising from the chimney, oh for some of mom’s homemade bread. Oh my, I see someone coming down the road. I bet dad has sent someone to tell me go back where I came from. Oh, I bet dad is so mad at me. I did do a very bad thing. Oh well I might as well give my speech to dad’s servant and then go some other place. When I walk around this bend in the road, I will get to see who dad sent to give me the bad news.

Oh my! Oh my! It is dad! And he is running toward me. He must really be angry with me but he doesn’t look angry. In fact he looks happy.

Oh Dad! Oh Dad! You just don’t know how good it feels for you to hold me in your arms and feel your warm embrace. Dad! Dad! I am so sorry. I have sinned against you and no longer worthy to be called your son.

Hush my son. Not another word. Oh my son! Oh my son! You just don’t now how I have longed for this day. I have waited and watched for you every day since you left, hoping and praying for your return. Don’t say another word. Without any doubt I forgive you with all my heart. Welcome home my beloved son.

Quick! Bring the finest long robe, worthy of a king, and put on this my son. Put the family ring on his finger to show he is restored with full authority in my household. Place sandals on his feet because he is not a hired servant, he is my son. This is time for celebration. Slaughter the fatted calf and let’s have a party because this son of mine was dead but has been resurrected from the dead and lives. What unspeakable joy!

The older brother is in the field working away. He hears some noise. It sounds like some celebration. So he asks a servant, “What is going on?” Oh sir, your younger brother has come home and your dad has ordered that the fatted calf be slaughtered and to have a huge celebration.

Rather than rejoicing the older brother is angry. He is so angry he refuses to go to the party, so his father comes out to talk to his eldest son.

The older son unloads all his pent up hostility onto his father:
- I have been a slave to you all these years. (Bondage)
- I have always obeyed you. (Self-righteous)
- You have never even given me a young goat for a party much less a fatted calf. (You never gave me.)
- But when this no good, worthless son of yours comes strolling back home after he has wasted all your hard earned money on prostitutes, you have the fatted calf killed. (This son of yours. Not my brother.) (His brother did not waste his father’s money; it was his brother’s money.) (Mention of prostitutes = slander.)
- Boy talk about gratitude for all these years I have slaved for you. Staying here and working my hands to the bone. (I really wanted to be off doing what he was doing.) Who do you think has made this place what it is?
- Oh my son. You are my son and never forget that. It is true you have worked very hard and have enjoyed the fruits of your labor but please don’t let anger control your life. Do you not see that your brother was as good as dead but he is alive, he was lost but he is found! Come let’s celebrate!

Again there is a celebration when the younger brother returns home.

In each parable there is a celebration after the lost sheep and the lost coin are found and the lost brother returns home. The sheep wandered off on its’ on, the coin was lost through no fault of its’ on and the younger brother made a decision to leave on his on.

Regardless of the reason each was precious to the person responsible for it’s’ care. The care taker searched for the sheep and the coin because the object lost could not find its’ way back to the person responsible.

In the case of the young brother, circumstances had to be such to get him to make a decision to return home because he had the right and will to choose.

JESUS is talking to the Pharisees. HE uses situations to which they can relate. They understand the need for a shepherd to go search for a lost sheep and rejoice when he finds the sheep. They understand when someone loses a tenth of their money. They would be concerned about it’s’ loss, search for it and rejoice when they find it. The situation of the 2 sons gave them some pause to think. Here is a situation where a young Jewish son demands his part of his dad’s estate. He could have asked for a gift but he asks for his part of his dad’s estate, which may have been a little testy. Then this Jewish boy goes to a foreign country. A Jewish person going to foreign country was not a good thing. Then the young man wasted his resources living an impure life. This is bad but the worst thing is he had to end up slopping hogs, which is bad enough and is defiling. To top it off, he had to eat pig’s food which is definitely not kosher. Yuk! Yuk! This is about as bad it can get and this young man is about as defiled and unrighteous as he can get.

So the parable of the prodigal son is hard for the Pharisees to deal with, except the young man was getting what he deserved. GOD was really dealing with this young man. I think the Pharisees were expecting the father to reject the son when he returned home.

Surprise! Surprise!

To their surprise and dismay the father welcomes, forgives and restores the son to his family status.

The Pharisees could identify more with the older brother because just like the older brother, they were self-righteous. The older brother had a problem with an unforgiving heart, so did the Pharisees. It is all about the attitude of the heart.

The younger brother’s heart was made tender before his father. He had done wrong but he repented and because he experienced forgiveness, he would know how to forgive others for the rest of his life.

JESUS is teaching the Pharisees that, in contrast to our love, care and concern for an animal, a coin or a person, whether it is 1 out of a 100, 1 out of 10 or 1 out of 2, “How much more” does GOD seek and restore any person who is lost and repents. In fact when sinners repent of their sin, there is a party in heaven in their honor.

We who know GOD, through CHRIST, are to take the message of forgiveness to those who are lost.

JESUS in essence is saying, “Pharisees stop being a self-righteous, exclusive group, judging everyone according to your standard. But compare yourself to GOD’S standard and then see how you measure up. When you see others the way GOD sees them, you will reach out to the lost world around you.

GOD knows the heart and the circumstances of every human being. HE sets into action the course of events which will produce the most beneficial results for bringing one who is lost to HIM. HE places us, who know the truth, in their path to plant a seed, do a little watering, or a little digging, or the harvest. So be ready, those who need CHRIST are all around us, GOD will provide the opportunity if we are willing.

Our FATHER waits eagerly for all HIS children to come to HIM and say, “FATHER I have sinned against you, please take me back. I am willing to do whatever YOU ask me to do. I want to be your hired hand. Apart from YOU, I can do nothing and all the world can offer me is pig’s food. But YOU, FATHER, set a banquet table before me every day of everlasting love, care, peace that passes all understanding, fullness of life and grace.”

May we all enter into our FATHER’S presence crawl up into HIS lap, gently behold HIS kind, gentle, loving face and say Daddy I love YOU and thank YOU for forgiving me and restoring me. I want to have the most intimate loving relationship with YOU that is possible. And hear HIM say welcome home, MY child; I have been waiting for this moment since I first knew you before I created the world. WOW!!! Awesome!!!

Keep Praying - Luke 11:1-13 - March 12, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Keep Praying – March 12, 2006

This is lesson two (2) in our series “CHRIST Followers.”

This is a fitting follow up to last week’s lesson on discipleship. Prayer is essential for every Christian to maintain fellowship and a loving intimate relationship with our FATHER. Simply prayer is communicating with JESUS and our FATHER.

JESUS thought prayer was essential for HIS life and HE was GOD in the flesh. Although CHIST is 100% GOD, HE was also 100% human. HE was tempted in all ways like we are, yet without sin. HE prayed before making important decisions such as choosing HIS disciples and before going to THE CROSS. JESUS prayed on many occasions.

Our background and focus scripture is Luke 11:1-13.

Let’s read Luke 11:1-4.

v A disciple asks JESUS to teach them how to pray:

1 He was praying in a certain place, and when He finished, one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John also taught his disciples.” 2 He said to them,

“Whenever you pray, say: Father,[1] Other mss read Our Father in heaven Your name be honored as holy. Your kingdom come.[2] Other mss add Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven 3 Give us each day our daily bread.[3] Or our bread for tomorrow 4 And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves also forgive everyone in debt[4] Or everyone who wrongs us to us. And do not bring us into temptation.”[5] Other mss add But deliver us from the evil one
Matthew 6: is the most often cited “LORD’S Prayer”, “Model Prayer” or “Disciples Prayer”, which was given in a public setting in the Sermon on the Mount.
Luke’s version was given in a private setting.
- JESUS is teaching believers how to pray and this prayer is not intended to be the sinner’s prayer for salvation. The sinner’s prayer is “FATHER forgive me of my sins and I ask JESUS to come into my heart or life.”
- Verse 2 - Notice JESUS begins the model prayer “When you pray “say”. This is interesting. JESUS said speak your prayer. I said LORD why speak your prayer? Answer – Satan cannot read your mind. When you speak Satan and all his followers hears what you are saying to GOD, THE FATHER. When you want a secret communication just go into your closet so-to-speak and communicate with GOD through your mind or meditate.
- When JESUS cast out demons HE spoke to them. Speaking out loud is powerful and puts Satan on notice that you mean business for THE LORD and are not afraid or ashamed.
GOD-centered perspective:
- Verse 2 - JESUS says when you speak call GOD, FATHER or better translated call HIM “Daddy”. We can address GOD with a personal intimate greeting as “Daddy” but keep in mind GOD is Holy and is to be honored and reverenced.
- Ask “Daddy” to send HIS kingdom to reign in the hearts and life of those who submit to HIM in faith through JESUS. The coming of GOD’S kingdom will usher in the period of grace which we cannot earn or even deserve. GOD will give the gift of grace when the penalty of sin is paid in full through the death and resurrection of HIS SON. So the kingdom of GOD is the rule of GOD in every believer’s heart’s until GOD’S kingdom is fully established through the second coming of CHRIST.
Personal needs perspective:
- The next petition (verse 3) is to recognize that GOD provides everything needed to sustain life. As HE gives us opportunity to work HE provides the means where we can earn our daily bread. The word “gives” infers continuous giving by GOD. Bread means that which will sustain us or food in general. The idea is that we always recognize that it is GOD WHO is the provider and for us not to become self-sufficient or arrogant but to always know that GOD is our provider each day or “day by day.”
- Verse 4 - JESUS did not have sin in HIS life but HE recognized that HE was tempted and since all humans are flesh there will always be a struggle with temptation and sin. 1 John 1:9 tells us “If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” JESUS knows human nature and knows believers will sin and we need to confess, which is to agree with GOD that we have missed HIS mark and sinned. When we confess, GOD forgives, cleanses and restores us to full fellowship with HIM. We have NOT lost our salvation but when we have unconfessed sin, Satan uses it to defeat us because we are trying to hide something from GOD. Satan makes us feel guilty. Unconfessed sin can interfere with our prayer life. Did you know that not being good to your wife can interfere with our prayers?
1 Peter 3:7:
7 Husbands, in the same way, live with your wives with understanding of their weaker nature[6] Lit understanding as the weaker vessel yet showing them honor as co-heirs of the grace of life, so that your prayers will not be hindered.

We must pray according to the will of GOD.
1John 5:14-15:
14 Now this is the confidence we have before Him: whenever we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears whatever we ask, we know that we have what we have asked Him for.
This begins to frustrate me. Is there fine print to effective praying? Answer – yes!
So what is the answer to effective praying? Answer – relationship. When we have the proper relationship with GOD through JESUS CHRIST, we are always in HIS will. We must yield our will to GOD and let HIM control our life.
Remember our scripture from last week. JESUS said I never do or say anything on MY on but only what THE FATHER tells ME. This is the relationship HE wants us to have with HIM.
- Verse 4 - May our attitude toward others who treat us in a sinful way be such that we forgive them as GOD forgives us. This again comes about through relationship and having a GOD-like attitude toward others.
- Verse 4 - JESUS in essence is saying, “Do not let our flesh lure us into sin.” May our relationship with GOD be such that we will always seek HIS strength and seek HIS help when we are tempted. We are to ask GOD our “Daddy” for strength, protection and deliverance from temptation.

v JESUS follows the “Model Prayer” with a parable to put what HE has just told HIS disciples into proper perspective. The following are the “So-much-more” examples which CHRIST gave to HIS disciples, which are just as relevant to us today. CHRIST wants us to know that GOD, our FATHER has our best interest in mind more so than any earthly relationship.
Let’s read Luke 11:5-10:
5 He also said to them: “Suppose one of you[6] Lit Who of you has a friend and goes to him at midnight and says to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves of bread, 6 because a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I don’t have anything to offer him.’[7] Lit I have nothing to set before him 7 Then he will answer from inside and say, ‘Don’t bother me! The door is already locked, and my children and I have gone to bed. I can’t get up to give you anything.’ 8 I tell you, even though he won’t get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence,[8] Or annoying persistence, or shamelessness he will get up and give him as much as he needs. 9 “So I say to you, keep asking,[9] Or you, ask and it will be given to you. Keep searching,[10] Or Search and you will find. Keep knocking,[11] Or Knock and the door will be opened to you. 10 For everyone who asks receives, and the one who searches finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

This is in the days before the telephone and cell phones. So JESUS used an example to which his disciples could relate.

JESUS is saying, “Put yourself in this situation. A friend of yours has traveled a long way to come visit you. Your friend arrives at your house late at night, he is hungry and you do not have any thing for him to eat. What would you do?

You would have no reluctance going to your good friend and neighbor, even though they are bedded down for the night. You will knock on your neighbor’s door and ask for bread. Your neighbor refuses but you do not let that stop you. You keep on shouting and knocking. So your neighbor, even though he is your friend, he will not get up at first, but because of your persistence, he will get up and give you the bread just to keep you quiet.

This reminds me, when our children where young. Our eldest daughter Allison was about 4 years old and Ted our eldest son was about 6 years old. We were at my mother and dads home preparing for Sunday lunch. Fried chicken was on the menu. Ted came in an asked Flonnie for a piece of fried chicken and she said no we will have lunch in a few minutes. A few minutes later Ted sees Allison with a piece of fried chicken. He says to Allison, “How did you get that chicken, mother told me I had to wait?” Allison replied, “Ted here is what you have to say. Mother I want some chicken. Mother I want some chicken. Mother I want some chicken and then she will give you a piece of chicken.” Persistence does pay off.

The parable is an example of how you can get what you want through persistence in an earthly situation, HOW MUCH MORE WILL YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER PROVIDE YOUR NEEDS. Pay special attention to ‘Provide your needs” not your wants. HE will provide that which is best.

JESUS follows with “Keep asking.” This implies that the one doing the asking does not have the answer. But the ONE WHO is being petitioned does have the answer and is capable of providing the answer. And will give you an answer sooner or later.

“Keep searching” means we seek, expecting to find. When we pray, we keep seeking until we have a GOD-given find.

“Keep knocking” is not just knocking to make a noise but we knock with full expectation that someone is at home and will answer.

The bottom line, GOD answers HIS children’s prayers.
v GOD our FATHER always answers our prayers. Just sometimes HE answers them in a different way or much later than we anticipate.
In next part of the parable, JESUS is telling HIS disciples that GOD our FATHER answers the prayers of believer’s. Stick with me.

Let’s read Luke 11:11-13:

11 What father among you, if his son[12] Other mss read son asks for bread, would give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead of a fish? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? 13 If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give[13] Lit the Father from heaven will give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”

This again is a “How much more” will GOD, our heavenly FATHER, respond to our requests than our earthly father.

If we as earthly fathers’ know how to give the right thing to our children “how much more” does our FATHER in heaven know how to answer our request.

Notice the earthly father never gives the child something which will hurt his child.

Here is where we must acknowledge the sovereignty of GOD. GOD is all knowing, all powerful and present every where. HE has a vantage point which cannot be compared to anyone. HE will never give us something which will harm us.

GOD always answers our prayers. HIS answers can be:
- Yes
- No
- Maybe at some point.
- You need to wait for awhile.
- You need to grow more.
- You need to -------- fill in the blank

LORD is there anything on my part which is preventing YOU from answering my prayer?
JESUS is telling us never to give up when we pray. Keep praying. When we continue to pray, we are acknowledging that we recognize that it is GOD WHO will provide the answer and we have not lost trust or faith in HIM to answer our prayer.

Prayer is essential for all believers to communicate with our FATHER as often as necessary. Nothing is ever unimportant to HIM.

I have heard some people say, “I only pray about the big things in my life because I do not want to bother GOD.” How much more is GOD ready, willing and able to come to our aid when we ask? James tells us that every perfect gift comes to us from our FATHER, through the relationship we have through HIS SON by the miracle of the new birth. We are HIS children and HE wants us to fellowship with HIM and have a loving intimate relationship with HIM.
James 1:17-18:
17 Every generous act and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights; with Him there is no variation or shadow cast by turning. 18 By His own choice, He gave us a new birth by the message of truth[4] message of truth = the gospel so that we would be the • firstfruits[5] Nm 15:17–21 of His creatures.

Yield your life to HIM today. FATHER please take me as I am and help me to have a loving intimate relationship with YOU beginning at this moment. What an awesome journey awaits you.

My prayers go with all who make this decision, as well as all who will ponder this decision.

Put CHRIST First - Luke 9:57-62; 14:25-33 - March 5, 2006

Sunday School Lesson – Put CHRIST First – March 5, 2006

This begins a new series of study entitled “CHRIST Followers.”

The 4 week study will be in Gospel of Luke:

March 5 – Put CHRIST First – Luke 9:57-62; 14:25-33
v Understanding JESUS’ challenge to put HIM before everything and everyone else.

March 12 – Keep Praying – Luke 11:1-13
v Acknowledging the value of prayer and committing to develop more persistent prayer lives.

March 19 – Celebrate When People Come to CHRIST – Luke 15:1-7, 11-13, 22-24, 28-32
v Affirming that salvation of sinners is the reason CHRIST came to earth and to welcome all who come to HIM.

March 26 – Honor CHRIST – Luke 19: 28-32, 35-44
v Realizing that followers of CHRIST should always honor HIM and affirming that they will honor HIM as long as they live.

Background scripture is Luke 9:46-62; 14:25-35

Focus scripture is Luke 9:57-62; 14:25-33

Some misconceptions can arise from the scripture we will study today. We must keep in mind the setting of the events given in the scripture. People are following JESUS, possibly for days, listening to HIS teachings, are being moved by HIS message and building a relationship with HIM. The scripture seems to be blunt rapid fire statements. They are statements which address human response to GOD’S call to discipleship.

Some of the demands for discipleship may seem to be overwhelming and with our human understanding can be discouraging to even consider being a disciple. Remember CHRIST is in us and will nurture us to discipleship through the relationship we have with HIM but HE does want us to be aware of and count the cost of being a disciple.

Keep in mind JESUS only did what THE FATHER told HIM to do. CHRIST is totally and completely obedient to THE FATHER.

John 12:49-50:
49 For I have not spoken on My own, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a command as to what I should say and what I should speak. 50 I know that His command is eternal life. So the things that I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.”

John 14:7-11:
Jesus Reveals the Father
7 “If you know Me, you will also know[4] Other mss read If you had known Me, you would have known My Father. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him.” 8 “Lord,” said Philip, “show us the Father, and that’s enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been among you all this time without your knowing Me, Philip? The one who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me?[5] Jn 10:30,38 The words I speak to you I do not speak on My own. The Father who lives in Me does His works. 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me. Otherwise, believe[6] Other mss read believe Me because of the works themselves.

GOD has a teaching purpose in the actions and responses of the people in our study scripture.

Are we a follower, believer or a disciple of CHRIST? Each of us has to decide whether or not to be a follower, believer or a disciple of CHRIST.

During JESUS’ earthly ministry some people followed HIM because HE was interesting, dynamic and charismatic. But did they accept HIM as THE MESSIAH?

Even today there are followers of JESUS because it is the social thing to do. It is good business to be seen as a Christian.
The question is, “Have we accepted CHRIST because we see that we are sinners and need to be saved from our sin so that we can have eternal life?” If so that makes us a believer.

Once we become a believer, do we want to become a disciple?

Since CHRIST’S death, resurrection and ascension, we as believers are blessed beyond measure.

CHRIST paid the penalty for sin by giving HIS life for sin. This allows the human body to become the temple of GOD so THE HOLY SPIRIT can indwell the human body of every believer.
Every believer will be equipped and empowered for service.

So what is JESUS’ message to us through the Great Commission?

Matthew 28:16-20:
The Great Commission
16 The 11 disciples traveled to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had directed them. 17 When they saw Him, they worshiped,[5] Other mss add Him but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came near and said to them, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go, therefore, and make disciples of[6] Lit and instruct, or and disciple (as a verb) all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember,[7] Lit look I am with you always,[8] Lit all the days to the end of the age.”

CHRIST’S challenge to us is to make disciples. The Body of CHRIST, the Church, is to be about the business of nurturing believers into disciples.

THE HOLY SPIRIT does the equipping and GOD our FATHER provides the power and performs the miracles. Our part is to be obedient and that requires the right relationship.

It is all about the relationship we have with CHRIST. GOD wants us to have a loving intimate relationship with HIM through CHRIST. HE wants us to be so in love with HIM and have such confidence and trust in HIM that we are completely obedient to HIM. Such a relationship rarely happens over night, it takes time and us yielding our lives to GOD to build this relationship.

However we have a choice whether or not we will yield our lives to our LORD. When we yield our lives to HIM this allows HIM to build the character in us which produces complete trust and confidence in HIM to be HIS disciple.

Let’s read Luke 9:57-62:

57 As they were traveling on the road someone said to Him, “I will follow You wherever You go!” 58 Jesus told him, “Foxes have dens, and birds of the sky[25] Wild birds, as opposed to domestic birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head.”

59 Then He said to another, “Follow Me.” “Lord,” he said, “first let me go bury my father.”[26] Not necessarily meaning his father was already dead 60 But He told him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and spread the news of the kingdom of God.”

61 Another also said, “I will follow You, Lord, but first let me go and say good-bye to those at my house.” 62 But Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”

We have three (3) people who, possibly for days, have been following and listening to JESUS teach. In verse 57-58 the first unidentified person tells JESUS “I will follow YOU wherever YOU go!” JESUS makes it clear to him that there will be a cost for him to follow HIM. HE doesn’t even have a place to call home. So following HIM will not be easy.

Was this person caught up in the moment and popularity of JESUS? Did he see JESUS for WHO HE is or did the man like the excitement of following a popular teacher? We do not know but JESUS tells him it will not be easy. We do not know how the man responded.

Notice in verses 59-60, JESUS asks the person to follow HIM but he offers what seems to be a legitimate excuse, “He needs to go bury his father.”

The problem is this person’s father is not dead yet. The rational to conclude that this person’s father is not dead is due to the fact this person is out following and listening to JESUS. If his father was dead he would be at home morning the death of his father and tending to the burial. The burial of a father falls to the son in the family and in particular to the eldest son. It also meant that any inheritance would pass to the son at the death of his father.

Burial, also, was a process. The body was buried quickly. Then in about 12-months the flesh would decompose leaving only the bones of the deceased. The bones were gathered and placed in an ossuary (osh’oo-er’ee) or bone box.

The words JESUS used in verse 60 tells us that JESUS is saying, “Let the spiritually dead bury the physically dead. You need to go spread the good news of the gospel to the spiritually dead.” JESUS saw in this person the potential to become a fisher of men.

Then in verse 61, we see another person responding on their own, “I will follow YOU but ---“, let me “first” go and tell my family “good-bye”. This seems reasonable. JESUS follows this man’s statement with a statement, “Once you make a decision, do not look back.” JESUS being GOD knew the man’s heart. The words the man uses gives a clue about his intentions, “first let me go and say good-bye to those at my house.”

The first key word is “first”. GOD does not want anything to be put “first” before HIM. The man using the word “first” was a signal to JESUS that he would let other things come “first” before his service to GOD.

The second key word is “good-bye”. To say “good-bye” is not as simple as it sounds. It means to go home put the household in order, give out instructions and in “due time” leave and join up with YOU.

Notice two (2) of the men referred to JESUS as LORD. The use of the title “LORD” gives the impression that these men believed in the deity of JESUS. In the Greco-Roman world, Caesar was recognized as Lord.

Now put this in proper perspective. If Caesar asked you to do something would you tell him, “Sure I will do it but I need to first go home to take care of some things, say good-bye and then when everything is worked out I will do it.” How do you think Caesar would react to such a statement from a subject? I think someone would be missing a head.

When JESUS called HIS twelve (12) disciples, each left what they were doing and immediately followed JESUS.

Let’s read Luke 14:25-33:
25 Now great crowds were traveling with Him. So He turned and said to them: 26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, and even his own life—he cannot be My disciple.

27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after Me cannot be My disciple.

28 “For which of you, wanting to build a tower, doesn’t first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? 29 Otherwise, after he has laid the foundation and cannot finish it, all the onlookers will begin to make fun of him, 30 saying, ‘This man started to build and wasn’t able to finish.’

31 “Or what king, going to war against another king, will not first sit down and decide if he is able with 10,000 to oppose the one who comes against him with 20,000? 32 If not, while the other is still far off, he sends a delegation and asks for terms of peace.

33 In the same way, therefore, every one of you who does not say good-bye to[6] Or does not renounce or leave all his possessions cannot be My disciple.

Now we fast forward to Chapter 14 and to a very large crowd traveling with JESUS.

JESUS turns to the crowd and issues a blanket statement to them. It seems as if JESUS is asking the crowd, “Why are you following ME around and listening to MY teaching?” Do you really love ME because you see that I am THE MESSIAH?” “If you love ME how much do you love ME?” “Here is something for you to think about. If you are going to be one of MY disciples, is your love and commitment to ME so deep that in contrast to the love you have for your earthly father, mother, wife, children, brothers or sisters that it appears that you hate them?”

JESUS is not saying we have to hate our loved ones but in contrast to our love for HIM our love for our family is a distant second appearing as hate. Yes even a distant second to our own life.

JESUS is totally committed to GOD THE FATHER to give HIS life to pay the penalty GOD demands for sin. HE wants no less a commitment from us, when we want to be HIS disciples.

JESUS makes it clear what is demanded of us. We must count the cost.

I think to myself, “Gee this is asking a lot. I do not know if I can commit to such a high standard. Can I finish the work?” Most of us cannot even begin to comprehend such a commitment. This is why we must have the relationship with GOD through CHRIST which can prepare us for discipleship.

Keep in mind the crowd following JESUS, possibly for days, listening to HIM teach and seeing HIS miracles were getting to know HIM. In essence they were building a relationship with HIM and observing authority and power which confirms HIS authenticity.

Today we have the knowledge of HIS death, burial, resurrection and ascension. We, as Christians, have THE HOLY SPIRIT, WHO indwells our lives and confirms HIS authenticity in our hearts and that we are HIS children.

The indwelling HOLY SPIRIT in our life allows us to commit our life to CHRIST and to build the relationship that enables us to commit to become a disciple. Sometimes we have to say, “LORD I am willing to be made willing to be your disciple.”

“Wherever HE leads I will follow” is a powerful commitment and is not to be taken lightly.

We have to know HIM and trust HIM to lead us where HE wants us to go, do what HE wants us to do, to say what HE wants us to say and believe HE can do all HE says HE can do.

JESUS makes it clear that it is not easy to be HIS disciple. We have to die to self. We have to take up our own cross and nail self to that cross; that is dying to self and then follow HIM.

HE says there is a cost. Do not commit yourself to being MY disciple until you consider the cost. HE gives two (2) examples to consider. One example is building a tower in a field so someone can watch over the field and the other example is a king having to defend his kingdom.

The decision to build a tower is optional but the decision how to handle the approaching king with a stronger army than yours requires a decision and strategy.

The key is where do we look for the ability to complete the mission? Do we look at our ability or do we place ourselves into GOD’S care and depend upon HIS ability? Relying upon GOD relates back to our relationship with HIM.

The bottom line each of us must decide is if we will allow anything to come between us and serving THE LORD as HIS disciple.

What is a disciple? When JESUS called a disciple it meant, “To be in the same way with, to accompany.” It did not mean to walk behind HIM wherever HE went to minister, it meant to always put HIM above everything and everyone. There is no treasure more valuable than HIM.

There is a distinction between a “believer” and a “disciple”.
A “disciple” refers to a smaller inner more intimate group and a “believer” is a larger group.

JESUS is making a distinction between the two (2) groups and makes it clear to be a disciple requires a commitment and there will be a cost.

It seems, based upon the scripture we have studied, we can volunteer to become disciples or HE can call us to discipleship. Either way HE wants us to know we have the right to choose.

This maybe a stretch but consider the example of building the tower, which is optional, to those who decide they want to become a disciple. Then consider the example of the king having to defend his kingdom, where action is required, to those GOD calls to become a disciple.

So do we have to be perfect to become a disciple or just willing?

Since we are still on our journey with our LORD, let’s take a quick look at the Apostle Peter’s life.

Peter responded immediately to the call of CHRIST to be a disciple.

Mark 1: 16-17:
The First Disciples – Peter First to be called
16 As He was passing along by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon (Peter) and Andrew, Simon’s brother. They were casting a net into the sea, since they were fishermen. 17 “Follow Me,” Jesus told them, “and I will make you fish for[14] Lit you to become fishers of people!” 18 Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.

Mark 3:14-16: - Peter first to be called to be an Apostle.

14 He also appointed 12—He also named them apostles[2] Other mss omit He also named them apostles —to be with Him, to send them out to preach, 15 and to have authority to[3] Other mss add heal diseases, and to drive out demons. 16 He appointed the Twelve:[4] Other mss omit He appointed the Twelve To Simon, He gave the name Peter;

Mark 1:35-37: Peter the leader and spokes person.

35 Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, He got up, went out, and made His way to a deserted place. And He was praying there. 36 Simon and his companions went searching for Him. 37 They found Him and said, “Everyone’s looking for You!”

Matthew 14:22-33: It is Peter who walks on the water with JESUS.
Walking on the Water
22 Immediately He[7] Other mss read Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of Him to the other side, while He dismissed the crowds. 23 After dismissing the crowds, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone. 24 But the boat was already over a mile[8] Lit already many stadia; 1 stadion = 600 feet from land,[9] Other mss read already in the middle of the sea battered by the waves, because the wind was against them. 25 Around three in the morning,[10] Lit fourth watch of the night = 3 to 6 a.m. He came toward them walking on the sea. 26 When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost!” they said, and cried out in fear. 27 Immediately Jesus spoke to them. “Have courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” 28 “Lord, if it’s You,” Peter answered Him, “command me to come to You on the water.” 29 “Come!” He said. And climbing out of the boat, Peter started walking on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the strength of the wind,[11] Other mss read saw the wind he was afraid. And beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!” 31 Immediately Jesus reached out His hand, caught hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?” 32 When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. 33 Then those in the boat worshiped Him and said, “Truly You are the Son of God!”

Matthew 18:21 – Peter asks questions no one else dared to ask.

21 Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how many times could my brother sin against me and I forgive him? As many as seven times?”
22 “I tell you, not as many as seven,” Jesus said to him, “but 70 times seven.

Matthew 17:1-6: Peter is a member of the inner circle of Peter, James and John on several occasions. The Mount of Transfiguration is one such occasion.

1 After six days Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother John, and led them up on a high mountain by themselves. 2 He was transformed[1] Or transfigured in front of them, and His face shone like the sun. Even His clothes became as white as the light. 3 Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Him. 4 Then Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it’s good for us to be here! If You want, I will make[2] Other mss read wish, let’s make three • tabernacles here: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” 5 While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud covered[3] Or enveloped; Ex 40:34–35 them, and a voice from the cloud[4] 2 Pt 1:16–18 said: This is My beloved Son. I take delight in Him. Listen to Him! 6 When the disciples heard it, they fell facedown and were terrified.

Matthew 16:13-20: Peter is the first to recognize JESUS as the Messiah and is praised by JESUS.

13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi,[6] A town north of Galilee at the base of Mount Hermon He asked His disciples, “Who do people say that the • Son of Man is?”[7] Other mss read that I, the Son of Man, am 14 And they said, “Some say John the Baptist; others, Elijah; still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 “But you,” He asked them, “who do you say that I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the • Messiah, the Son of the living God!” 17 And Jesus responded, “Simon son of Jonah,[8] Or son of John you are blessed because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father in heaven. 18 And I also say to you that you are Peter,[9] Peter (Gk Petros) = a specific stone or rock and on this rock[10] Rock (Gk petra) = a rocky crag or bedrock I will build My church, and the forces[11] Lit gates of • Hades will not overpower it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth is already bound[12] Or earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth is already loosed[13] Or earth will be loosed in heaven.” 20 And He gave the disciples orders to tell no one that He was[14] Other mss add Jesus the Messiah.

Matthew 16:21-23: Peter is rebuked by JESUS.

21 From then on Jesus began to point out to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders, • chief priests, and • scribes, be killed, and be raised the third day. 22 Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him, “Oh no,[15] Lit Mercy to You = May God have mercy on You Lord! This will never happen to You!” 23 But He turned and told Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are an offense to Me because you’re not thinking about God’s concerns,[16] Lit about the things of God but man’s.”

Luke 22:31-34: Satan wants to sift Peter, JESUS prays Peter’s faith will not fail but that Peter will deny CHRIST.
Peter’s Denial Predicted
31 “Simon, Simon,[6] Other mss read Then the Lord said, “Simon, Simon look out! Satan has asked to sift you[7] you (pl in Gk) like wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you[8] you (sg in Gk) that your faith may not fail. And you, when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” 33 “Lord,” he told Him, “I’m ready to go with You both to prison and to death!” 34 “I tell you, Peter,” He said, “the rooster will not crow today until[9] Other mss read before you deny three times that you know Me!”

Matthew 26:69-75: Peter denies his LORD not once, not twice but three times.
Peter Denies His Lord
69 Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. A servant approached him and she said, “You were with Jesus the Galilean too.” 70 But he denied it in front of everyone: “I don’t know what you’re talking about!” 71 When he had gone out to the gateway, another woman saw him and told those who were there, “This man was with Jesus the • Nazarene!” 72 And again he denied it with an oath, “I don’t know the man!” 73 After a little while those standing there approached and said to Peter, “You certainly are one of them, since even your accent[32] Or speech gives you away.” 74 Then he started to curse[33] To call down curses on himself if what he said weren’t true and to swear with an oath, “I do not know the man!” Immediately a rooster crowed, 75 and Peter remembered the words Jesus had spoken, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly.

Peter repents of his sin and weeps. In contrast Judas cannot even ask for forgiveness and goes and hangs himself.

Oh, but by the grace of GOD, we see that Peter is the first Apostle to whom CHRIST appears. JESUS forgives our worst offences when we repent and comes to us to confirm that forgiveness and restores our relationship with HIM.

Luke 24:33-35: Peter was the first Apostle to whom JESUS appeared.

33 That very hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem. They found the Eleven and those with them gathered together, 34 who said,[8] Gk is specific that this refers to the Eleven and those with them. “The Lord has certainly been raised, and has appeared to Simon!” 35 Then they began to describe what had happened on the road and how He was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

1 Corinthians 15:3-5: Paul confirms that JESUS first appeared to Peter.

3 For I passed on to you as most important what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that He appeared to • Cephas, then to the Twelve.

The Book of Acts tells of the role of the Apostle Peter from the Day of Pentecost to taking the message of salvation to the Gentiles.

Peter had his ups and his downs as he journeyed with CHRIST. The important thing is JESUS never cast him aside because of his actions. Peter served our LORD in spite of himself. Our LORD built the relationship with Peter and nurtured Peter along his journey with HIM.

Only GOD can take the ordinary and create the extraordinary.

What a SAVIOR!

Are you a disciple, believer or a follower?