The Fourth Sunday in Lent

also known by the traditional name “Laetere (Rejoice) Sunday”

March 19, 2023

Without Any Question Mark….

We Are Saved By Grace Alone!

Charles Spurgeon and Joseph Parker both pastored large churches in London in the 19th century. On one occasion, the Reverend Parker commented on the poor physical condition of some of the children which were admitted to an orphanage sponsored by Spurgeon’s church. It was erroneously reported to Spurgeon, however, that Parker had criticized the orphanage itself. The next week Spurgeon blasted Parker from his pulpit. The attack was printed in the newspapers and became the talk of the town. The following Sunday people flocked to Parker’s church to hear his rebuttal. “I understand Dr. Spurgeon is not in his pulpit today, and this is the Sunday his congregation uses to take an offering for their orphanage. I propose we take a love offering here instead.” The crowd was delighted. The ushers had to empty the offering plates 3 times before they passed through the entire congregation. Later that week there was a knock on the door of Parker’s study. It was Spurgeon. “You know brother, you have practiced grace on me. You have given me not what I deserved; you have given me what I needed. I am sorry for what I said about you, and I thank God and you for your grace.”

Today’s Service Emphasis and Scripture Lessons

This morning’s service will emphasize through its Scripture lessons, hymns and prayers, the Christian’s joy of knowing that God, by grace (His unmerited love), for Jesus’ sake has guaranteed undeserving sinners like us what we needed most: His full and free forgiveness and the promise of eternal life in heaven through faith in Christ, our Savior.

For our First Lesson we’ll turn to Galatians 4 in which Paul employs an allegory (the illustration of persons or actions to represent a particular human condition) about Hagar and Sarah and their sons, Ishmael and Isaac, to contrast the inadequacy of legalism inherent in the OT Law from Mt. Sinai, with the superiority of the grace of the Gospel (alternately described as Mt. Zion).

The value of God’s grace is also going to be emphasized in today’s Children’s Lesson, based on Ephesians 2:8-9. We’ll use a child’s basketball hoop and ball…to illustrate how “Everyone misses” (because we all sin), “But Everyone Still Wins” (because, by His grace, God saves us through faith in Christ.

In our Epistle Lesson (of which verse 32 serves as today’s sermon Text) Paul speaks about the sufferings and trials that Christians endure in this world for Jesus’ sake, about how we long for our ultimate deliverance in heaven, and about how God graciously – having brought us to faith – is committed to preserving us in our faith and making everything work out for our earthly and eternal good…..regardless of the seeming problems and perils we encounter in life.

Our Gospel Lesson is another lesson on grace…..the story of “the Woman who’d led a sinful life.” Jesus, having dinner as the guest of a Pharisee, has His feet washed by the tears of a woman with a sinful past. Her behavior offended the Pharisee. But Jesus was pleased with her repentant heart and assured her that her sins were all forgiven.

Today is “Laetere”….a Sunday to “Rejoice”

As we work our way through the season of Lent, we arrive this morning at the Sunday traditionally known as Laetere Sunday (Latin for “Rejoice”). This name is taken from a word in the opening verse of our composite Psalm reading for today: Psalm 122:1, “I rejoiced when the said to me, let us go to the house of the Lord.” As David rejoiced at the opportunity to worship the Lord nearly 3000 years ago, so today we rejoice at the privilege of entering our Lord’s “house,” here to worship Him, to confess our sins, to receive the good news of His forgiveness in the Gospel, to offer Him our prayers, and to gain wisdom and guidance for Christian living through our study of His Word.

Laetere Sunday as a Significant Part of the Season of Lent

One of the more interesting facts connected to this fourth Sunday in Lent, Laetere (“Rejoice”) Sunday, is this: in the Church’s earliest days, the season of Lent was celebrated originally as a three (instead of a six) week season. And so, if we still followed that three week approach, tomorrow would mark the formal/official beginning of the penitential season of Lent. For the early Christians, Laetere Sunday was actually the last Sunday (until Easter) to “rejoice” before the more subdued, penitential atmosphere of Lent dominated their worship services. Consequently, “Laetere” Sunday is still viewed today as a “reprieve to rejoice” during the otherwise serious, sober season of Lent.

The portions of God’s Word used in this worship flyer have been taken from The Holy Bible, Evangelical Heritage Version Copyright 2019, The Wartburg Project, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission

Music and lyrics, as needed, are used with permission via OneLicense.net #A712831

Pre-Service Prayer In the name of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen. I thank You my Heavenly Father, through Jesus Christ, Your Son, for keeping me through the night from all harm and danger. Keep me this day also from sin and every evil, that all my doings and life may please You. Into Your hands I commit my body and soul and all things. Let your holy angel be with me, that the Devil may have no power over me. Amen.

Pre-service prayer Pre-worship music

Let Us Praise The Lord

The Introduction and Invitation to Worship

after which, the Pastor will invite the Congregation will rise for

The Invocation

We make our beginning

In the name…. of the Father,

Who gave His Son into death for us

and raised Him in glory on the third day;

And of the Son,

Who laid down His life

only to take it up again on the third day;

And of the Holy Spirit

through Whom Christ was made alive,

Who has worked saving faith in our hearts,

Who lives in us now through the Word,

and Who will one day give life to our mortal bodies.

Amen.

The Preparatory Psalm selected verses of Psalms 122, 130, 32, and 138

P: I rejoiced when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.”

C: I will praise You, O God, with all my heart; before the “gods” I will sing Your praise.

P: If You, O Lord, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?

C: But with You there is forgiveness; that You may be feared.

P: For when I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long.

C: For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; + my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer.

P: I acknowledged my sin to You and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord” —

C: and You forgave the iniquity of my sin.

P: O Israel, hope in the Lord, for with the Lord there is steadfast love, and with Him is plentiful redemption.

C: And He will redeem Israel from all his iniquities.

P: The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me;

C: Your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.

After which the Congregation may be seated for

The Opening Hymn “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore You”

v 1 alt, vv 2-3 cwh, 1999

Joyful, joyful we adore You, God of glory, God of love!

Heav’n and earth bow down before You, Praising You, our Lord above.

You our Father, Christ our Savior, With the Spirit faith provides,

Life eternal we’ve been granted, gracious gift that e’er abides.

You are giving and forgiving, Ever glorious, Ever blest.

Source of every kind of blessing, Giver of eternal rest.

You have claimed us as Your children Heaven’s heirs through faith alone —

In the Rock of our salvation, Jesus Christ, our Lord, Your Son.

Lord, receive our prayers and praises, weak and humble though they be.

Yours the power, Yours the glory, Both today and endlessly.

None beside You, None before You, God of mercy, full and free.

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, ever blessed Trinity. Amen

After which the Congregation will rise

We Make Confession Of Our Sins To God

Pastor God, our Heavenly Father, invites us to come into His presence and to worship Him with humble and penitent hearts. Therefore, let us now turn to Him, acknowledging our sinfulness and seeking His forgiveness for all our sins.

Congregation Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful and that I have disobeyed You in my thoughts, words, and actions; I have done what is evil in Your sight and have failed to do what is

good. For this I know that I deserve Your punishment, both now and for eternity. But I am truly sorry for all my sins, and trusting in the perfect life and innocent death of my Savior, Jesus Christ, I plead: God have mercy on me, a sinner.

Pastor Our gracious Lord and Master has shown us His mercy: He has given His one and only Son to save us from all our sins. And now, carrying out my office as a called servant of Christ, and according to His command

and authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. May the peace of God rest upon all of you. Amen.

In joyful response to this reassurance of God’s love and forgiveness for us in Christ, please join me now as we sing the praises of our gracious and majestic Lord:

“Majesty” written by Jack Hayford, Rocksmith Music,

used with permission, CCLI # 1366699

Majesty, worship His majesty. Unto Jesus, be all glory, honor and praise.

Majesty….Kingdom authority, flow from His throne, unto His own, His anthem raise.

So exalt – lift up on high, the name of Jesus. Magnify, come glorify, Christ Jesus the King.

Majesty, worship His majesty. Jesus Who died. Now glorified. King of all Kings.

Our Prayer for This Morning

O LORD, God + We implore You to favorably hear + and grant the prayers of Your people, so that we + who justifiably deserve to be punished for our transgressions, + will instead receive the benefits + of Your boundless grace and mercy: + namely full forgiveness of all our sins + and everlasting life in heaven, + not because of our works or personal worthiness + but because of the merits and shed blood of Jesus Christ, + Your Son, our Savior, + Who lives and rules with You and the Holy Spirit, + As the one, true God + now and forever. + Amen.

after which the Congregation may be seated for

Feed Us, Lord

The Children’s Lesson Ephesians 2:8-9

8 Indeed, it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

Everyone Misses…..But Everyone’s a Winner – by Grace

A Children’s Hymn The Heaven Song

I know a peaceful place where there’s a smile on ev’ry face. Where’s that? It’s in heaven!

I’ll be happy there and free; I’ll be healthy as can be. Where’s that? It’s in heaven.

Heaven, Jesus made a place for me! Heaven, by grace we’‘ll live eternally!

Now I’m not afraid to die, and I can tell you why – Because I know I’ll be in heaven!

The First Scripture Lesson Galatians 4:21-31

21 Tell me, you who want to be under the law, are you really listening to the law? 22 For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by the slave woman, and one by the free woman. 23 However, the son by the slave woman was born according to the flesh, but the son by the free woman was born through a promise. 24 These things can be used as an illustration; namely, the women are two covenants. One is from Mount Sinai, bearing children into slavery. This is Hagar. 25 You see, this Hagar is Mount Sinai in Arabia, and she corresponds to present-day Jerusalem, because Jerusalem is in slavery along with her children. 26 But the Jerusalem that is above is free. She is our mother. 27 For it is written:

Rejoice, barren woman who does not give birth. Break forth and shout for joy, woman who does not suffer birth pains, because the barren woman has more children than does the woman who has a husband.

28 Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of the promise. 29 But just as back then the one who was born according to the flesh persecuted the one who was born according to the Spirit, so this is also the case now. 30 But what does the Scripture say? “Throw out the slave woman and her son, because the son of the slave woman will certainly not receive the inheritance with the son of the free woman.” 31 For this same reason, brothers, we are not children of a slave woman, but of the free woman.

The Epistle Lesson Romans 8:18-39

18 For I conclude that our sufferings at the present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. 19 In fact, creation is waiting with eager longing for the sons of God to be revealed. 20 For creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in the hope 21 that even creation itself will be set free from slavery to corruption, in order to share in the glorious freedom of the children of God.

22 For we know that all of creation is groaning with birth pains right up to the present time. 23 And not only creation, but also we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we eagerly await our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. 24 Indeed, it was for this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is not hope, because who hopes for what he already sees? 25 But if we hope for something we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patient endurance.

26 In the same way the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we should pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that are not expressed in words. 27 And he who searches our hearts knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints, according to God’s will.

28 We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose, 29 because those God foreknew, he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he would be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those he predestined, he also called. Those he called, he also justified. And those he justified, he also glorified.

31 What then will we say about these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 Indeed, he who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also graciously give us all things along with him?

33 Who will bring an accusation against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies! 34 Who is the one who condemns? Christ Jesus,[g] who died and, more than that, was raised to life, is the one who is at God’s right hand and who is also interceding for us! 35 What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 Just as it is written: For your sake we are being put to death all day long. We are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.

37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor rulers, neither things present nor things to come, nor powerful forces, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

after which, the Congregation will rise for

The Gospel Lesson Luke 7:36-50

36 A certain one of the Pharisees asked Jesus to eat with him. Jesus entered the Pharisee’s house and reclined at the table. 37 Just then a sinful woman from that town learned that he was reclining in the Pharisee’s house. She brought an alabaster jar of perfume, 38 stood behind him near his feet weeping, and began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she began to wipe them with her hair while also kissing his feet and anointing them with the perfume. 39 When the Pharisee who had invited him saw this, he said to himself, “If this man were a prophet, he would realize who is touching him and what kind of woman she is, because she is a sinner.”

40 Jesus answered him, “Simon, I have something to tell you.” He said, “Teacher, say it.” 41 “A certain moneylender had two debtors. The one owed five hundred denarii,[g] and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he forgave them both. So, which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered, “I suppose the one who had the larger debt forgiven.”

Then he told him, “You have judged correctly.” 44 Turning toward the woman, he said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house, but you did not give me water for my feet. Yet she has wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. 45 You did not give me a kiss, but she, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. 46 You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with perfume. 47 Therefore I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven; that is why she loved so much. But the one who is forgiven little loves little.” 48 Then Jesus said to her, “Your sins have been forgiven.”

The Public Confession of our Christian Faith

according to the words of the Nicene Creed

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of His Father before all worlds, God of God, Light of Light. Very God of Very God. Begotten, not made. Being of one substance with the Father, By whom all things were made; Who for us men and for our salvation, came down from heaven And was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary And was made man; And was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate. He suffered and was buried; And the third day He rose again according to the Scriptures; And ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of the Father; And he shall come again with glory, to judge both the quick and the dead; Whose Kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost, The Lord and Giver of Life, Who proceedeth from the Father and the Son, Who with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and glorified, Who spake by the Prophets. And I believe one holy Christian and Apostolic Church. I acknowledge one Baptism for the remission of sins, And I look for the resurrection of the dead, And the life of the world to come. Amen.

After which the Congregation will be seated for

The Hymn of the Day Hymn 384 “By Grace I’m Saved”

1 By grace I’m saved, grace free and boundless; My soul, believe and doubt it not.

Why waver at this word of promise? Has Scripture ever falsehood taught?

So then this word must true remain: By grace you, too, shall heav’n obtain.

2 By grace God’s Son, our only Savior, Came down to earth to bear our sin.

Was it because of your own merit That Jesus died, your soul to win?

No, it was grace, and grace alone, That brought him from his heav’nly throne.

3 By grace! Oh, mark this word of promise When you are by your sins oppressed,

When Satan plagues your troubled conscience, And when your heart is seeking rest.

What reason cannot comprehend God by his grace to you did send.

4 By grace to timid hearts that tremble, In tribulation’s furnace tried —

By grace, despite all fear and trouble, The Father’s heart is open wide.

Where could I help and strength secure If grace were not my anchor sure?

5 By grace! On this I’ll rest when dying; In Jesus’ promise I rejoice.

For though I know my heart’s condition, I also know my Savior’s voice.

My heart is glad; all grief has flown Since I am saved by grace alone.

Sermon Text Romans 8:32

32 Indeed, he who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also graciously give us all things along with him?

Grace…..Without Any Question Mark

following which the Congregation WILL REMAIN SEATED for

The Post-Sermon Blessing

May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God our Father, Who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. Amen.

We Present our Prayers and Offerings to the Lord

Offerings will be received this morning through offering plates passed among those who have gathered here for worship. However, for those viewing this service online, we offer you the following suggestions for providing God with Your thank-offerings through our ministry:

1) You can mail a check (no cash, please) to our church address: (415 N. 6^th Place, Lowell, AR 72745); or

2) You can donate through our website: www.gracelutherannwa.com

Our Offerings of Love to our Lord

As the offerings are brought to the altar, the Congregation will rise for

The Special Prayers for this Day

Included in our prayers this morning is

A Prayer of Thanksgiving for Helen and Kent Mayer

who will celebrate their wedding anniversary this Thursday.

Our General Prayers

The Lord’s Prayer Our Father, Who art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation; But deliver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

We Celebrate the Lord’s Supper

Pastor – The Lord be with you.

Congregation (Sung) And with You also

Pastor – Lift up your hearts.

Congregation (Sung) We lift them up to the Lord

Pastor – Let us give thanks unto the Lord, our God.

Congregation (Sung) It is good and right so to do.

Pastor – It is truly good and right that we should at all times and in all places give thanks to You, O Lord, holy Father, almighty, everlasting God, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Who brought the gift of salvation to all people by His death on the tree of the cross, so that the Devil, who overcame us by a tree would, in turn, by a tree be overcome. Therefore with angels and archangel, and all the company of heaven, we praise Your holy name and join their glorious song:

(Sung)

Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God of heavenly hosts. Heaven and earth are full of Your glory

Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is He, Blessed is He, Blessed is He

Who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest.

Consecration of the Communion Elements

Pastor The peace of the Lord be with you always.

Congregation (Sung) Amen.

O Christ, Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; Have mercy on us.

O Christ, Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world; Grant us peace. Amen.

The Exhortation Regarding the Lord’s Supper

The Distribution of the Lord’s Supper

(Please read the following if you have not spoken with

our Pastor about taking communion. Thank you.)

To our Guests this morning, we appreciate your presence among us. It is an honor to have you join with us as we worship our Lord and listen to His Word. We truly consider it a privilege to spend this time with you! It is our hope that you will both return in the future to worship with us again, and – perhaps – that You will even choose to become part of our congregation’s membership and our Synodical (WELS) fellowship, so that you might become even more involved in worship, study of God’s Word, and in Christian ministry and fellowship with us.

In connection with our worship as Christians, we regularly celebrate the Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion. But, as a key part of our church’s Biblically-based communion practice, before we can ask anyone to commune with us, we are compelled to first sit down with that individual and establish (upon a comprehensive study of the teachings of Scripture) that we are united in full doctrinal/ teaching fellowship…….which Scripture requires of any and all Christians before they can commune together.

Accordingly, we can offer the Lord’s Supper this morning only to those individuals who have completed that course of study, and who have chosen to become confirmed, communicant members of Grace Lutheran congregation or from one of our Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) or Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS) congregations.

For some guests, this Biblical practice of “Close Communion“ is both unfamiliar and (quite possibly) uncomfortable. We realize that, unfortunately, few churches today continue to follow this approach to communion…..though, in the past (when many churches were more concerned about following all of God’s Word than is the case today) nearly all did. We understand that it is not necessarily easy to watch others receiving the Lord’s Supper, while being asked – respectfully — to refrain from receiving it. Many of us who are communing today once also watched others receive the Lord’s Supper, as you are asked to do this morning, while waiting for the privilege of one day being an active partner in this “Close Communion.” We want to assure you that we are not judging your faith in Christ today. Nor it is our desire to offend you. But it also is not our desire to offend or disobey our Lord’s expectations for the proper use of His Supper. Indeed, we must all obey Him above all others, and we want to obey Him. Consequently, if you have any questions or concerns about our use/practice of the Lord’s Supper (and we invite you to ask or express them — if you do), please feel free to speak with our Pastor after the service, or at your convenience. He considers it a privilege to share with you and others the Biblical reasons for our approach to receiving and offering the Lord’s Supper. In addition, you can also find a brochure in our tract/brochure rack in the entryway; it is entitled “Our Communion Practice.” This brochure also provides our guests and friends with the Scripture-based explanation for our understanding of and use of the Lord’s Supper.

Finally, please know that we truly are grateful for your participation – as a fellow Christian – in this morning’s worship service. We also thank you for your patience and understanding, and for respecting this Biblical approach we must take as we endeavor to faithful make us of our Lord’s Supper. We hope and pray that you will come back to worship with us again — often. And that one day you might become a part of this Christian fellowship, not only as we worship and hear God’s Word from these pews, but as we receive the Lord’s Supper together. May God bless and keep you always!

The First Distribution Hymn “Thy Table I Approach”

1 Thy Table I approach; Dear Savior, hear my prayer;

Oh, let no unrepented sin Prove hurtful to me there!

2 Lo, I confess my sins And mourn their wretched bands;

A contrite heart is sure to find Forgiveness at Thy hands.

3 Thy body and Thy blood, Once slain and shed for me,

Are taken here with mouth and soul, I blest reality.

4 Search not how this takes place, This wondrous mystery;

God can accomplish vastly more Than seemeth plain to thee.

5 Vouchsafe, O blessed Lord, That earth and hell combined

May ne’er about this Sacrament A doubt raise in my mind.

6 Oh, may I never fail To thank Thee day and night

For Thy true body and true blood, O God, my Peace and Light!

The Second Distribution Hymn Hymn 381 “Grace, Has A Thrilling Sound”

1 Grace has a thrilling sound To each believer’s ear;

That peace with God through Christ is found Is news I gladly hear.

2 Grace first inscribed my name In God’s eternal book,

And grace has brought me to the Lamb, Who all my sorrows took.

3 Grace led my wand’ring feet To tread the heav’nly road,

And grace supplies each hour I meet While pressing on to God.

4 Grace taught my soul to pray And made my eyes o’erflow;

His grace has kept me to this day And will not let me go.

5 Grace all our work shall crown Through everlasting days;

The heav’nly home God gives his own Shall echo with our praise.

We Leave With The Lord’s Blessing

The Closing Prayer followed by The Benediction

The Lord bless you and keep you.

The Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you.

The Lord look with favor upon you, and give you His peace. Amen.

The Closing Hymn Hymn 318 “Sent Forth By God’s Blessing”

1 Sent forth by God’s blessing, our true faith confessing, the people of God from this dwelling take leave.

The supper is ended. Oh, now be extended the fruits of this service in all who believe.

The seed of His teaching, receptive souls reaching, shall blossom in action for God and for all.

His grace did invite us, His love shall unite us to work for God’s kingdom and answer His call.

2 With praise and thanksgiving to God ever-living, the tasks of our ev’ryday life we will face—

our faith ever sharing, in love ever caring, embracing His children of each tribe and race.

With your feast you feed us, with your light now lead us; unite us as one in this life that we share.

Then may all the living with praise and thanksgiving give honor to Christ and his name that we bear.

Announcements

Recently At Grace Lutheran Last Sunday’s Worship: 58 Online: 19 Bible Class/SS Attendance: 22 and 3 Online Bible Class views: 11 Budgetary Offerings: $3134.15 Capital Improvement: $10

Online Budgetary Offerings: $365.03 Tuesday Bible Class: 16 Wednesday Lenten Attendance: 43

Wednesday Online views: 8 Budgetary Offerings: $303

Serving Next Sunday Fellowship: Tom Otto, Linda & Jim Winnat Altar Guild: Katie Boatright, Marilyn Outlaw

Elders: Terry Bruns, Tim Pfortmiller Ushers: Tim Huebner, Tom Otto

Birthday and Anniversary this week March 22 Emma Larson; March 23 – Helen & Kent Mayer;

Looking Ahead For our Church-Family This Week

Today The 4^th Sunday in Lent, 9:30 a.m. with Communion Fellowship, 10:45

Bible Class/Sunday School period, 11:05 a.m. Youth Confirmation Class, 12:15 to 1:30 p.m.

Mar 20 (Mon) Church Secretary in office, 10 a.m. to early afternoon

Mar 21 (Tues) Morning Bible Class, 10:30 a.m.

Mar 22 (Wed) Sandwich and Soup Fellowship Meal, 6 p.m. The Fifth Midweek Lenten Service, 7:00 p.m.

Mar 25 (Sat) Outreach Visits, 10 a.m

Mar 26 (Sun) 5^th Sunday in Lent, Worship , 9:30am Fellowship Period, 10:40 a.m.

Bible Class/Sunday School time, 11:05 a.m. Youth Confirmation Class, 12:15 to 1:30 p.m.

Midweek Lenten Worship Service Reminder ….looking ahead to this coming Wednesday evening, March 25^th, we will be conducting another special worship service to observe the 40 days’ long pre-Easter season, known as Lent. Wednesday’s service will begin at 7:00 p.m. The theme for this year’s services is: “Personalities of Christ’s Passion.” This Wednesday, we’ll be looking at Pontius Pilate, the Pragmatist. It will be based on Matthew 27:15-26. Please plan to join us for all of these special worship services…and please also plan on bringing a non-churched friend, or friends, to share the worship of the Lord with us in these special worship services.

Sandwich and Soup Fellowship Meal…..We hope that many of you will be able to join us not only for Wednesday evening’s worship service, but also for the fellowship meal that will precede it, starting at 6 p.m. This week we’ll be having various sandwiches and some soup (with desserts, of course) . Besides the good fellowship we can have during this time, we hope that these meals might make it a little less hectic for some of you to eat supper before attending the evening worship services. In addition to bringing yourself, if you’re able your bringing a food item or two would be appreciated. A sign up sheet is on a clipboard in the church entryway, and we will also pass it around during Bible Class today.

Whom will you bring to worship this Easter Sunday? Yourself (and your spouse) of course. But how about inviting and bringing your son or daughter……your Grandchildren….your parents….an unchurched neighbor…..someone with whom you work….or how about a stranger that you’ve yet to meet? You could even invite a member of Grace who hasn’t been in church with us for a long time. A lot of the people that you and I know haven’t been inside of a church to worship our Lord in a very long time. Some of that is still due to the related effects that the Covid shut-down had. Some of that is the result of a growing apathy in our society toward both religion, in general, and about God. I believe that’s part of why God has put each of us in the lives of various people. He wants us to be examples of faith in Christ to them and sources of Spiritual encouragement to them. And so He’s also called us all to verbally witness to them about how essential faith in the crucified and risen Christ is for us…and for them. After all, all of us are Christ’s “ambassadors” whose privilege it is to present the Gospel to people so the Holy Spirit can either establish, or strengthen, saving faith in their hearts. There’s no better opportunity to do that than this Lenten season, as we head toward the commemoration of Jesus’ death for us on Good Friday, and the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection for us on Easter Sunday. So, please be a witness for Jesus, and invite (and bring) someone you know who’s non-churched to worship our risen Savior with us on Easter morning….or any other worship service here.

Special Holy Week Worship Services Reminder – In slightly less than one month we’ll have two special opportunities to gather together here for worship during the week we know as Holy Week.. We urge all of you to make your preparations and plans now so that you will be able to join us for our Maundy Thursday (April 6^th) worship service with the Lord’s Supper at 7:00 p.m., and our April 7^th Good Friday worship service, which will also begin at 7:00 p.m.

Rummage Announcement…..In about two months, our Women’s Group will sponsor a rummage sale…..on May 19-20. If you’re one of those persons who does an annual “spring cleaning” of your home, please keep our rummage sale in mind. Even if you don’t do a “spring cleaning,” if you have items you could donate to our rummage sale, that would be very much appreciated. And, if you might need to bring items earlier than the week prior to the sale, early drop offs will be available in early May. Please speak with Pastor about this when the time comes. We’ll do our best to work with you.

The Parables of our Lord

Divine Truths From Real Life Stories

The Role And Interpretation Of Parables

What is a parable?

Definition of a parable

It is…….
– not a fable
– not a myth
– not a proverb
– A parable, by common definition, is an aid for teaching.

Many of us also have learned this definition: “A parable is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.”

Look up the following Scripture references. In what way were parables effective in the given situations?

* Luke 20:1-19

* 2 Samuel 12:1-8

* Luke 14:25-33

How Jesus Used Parables

Look up Matthew 13:31,32. There’s no explanation of what this short parable means. Why did Jesus often speak in parables rather than simply stating the facts?

Jesus used parables not to mask the truth, but to cause His hearers to search for it.

Parables are more interesting than “abstract” theological discussions. They are also easier for people to relate to, and to remember.

Jesus used parables in discourse with His enemies so that they would have no clear statements from Him to use against Him. Look up Mark 4:10-12.

For those who were hardened in their refusal to acknowledge the truth of Jesus’ message and identity, parables served to hide the truth from them and act as a judgment against them. Look up Matthew 21:43-46. Who is Jesus addressing here? (see v.23) What is He clearly saying to them? Why did He use a parable to make this point?

The Gospel of John has no parables. Mark has only one that is unique to his book. The majority of our parables, then, come from Luke’s and Matthew’s Gospels. A few are also found in the Old Testament.

The Interpretation Of Parables

The following principles should guide us as we seek to interpret the parables of Jesus:

The parables are not merely charming little stories about the “way things always are.” They explain ways in which God operates, or ways in which He expects His followers to live for Him. Matthew 13:11 tells us that parables explain certain aspects of the Kingdom of God to us; namely, God’s just and gracious dealings with sinful man. Also, keep in mind the main thought or leading idea of the parable as given by Christ himself, or the context.
Always pay careful attention to the immediate context of the parable. Parables typically answer a question or address a particular situation that its hearers are facing. What prompted Jesus to speak the parables offered in the following references?
Luke 7:41-50

Matthew 12:29
Luke 10:25-37

All the features of the parable are subordinate to the leading idea. The interpretation of details must fit the main thrust of the story. Consequently, not every part of a parable needs to be interpreted. Some parts simply supplement the story. The parable itself should be studied along with the context to determine what is the one main point at issue (this is often called the “tertium”). For example in Luke 18:1-8, what might you conclude about God if you focused primarily on the description of the judge? What, however, is clearly the main point of this parable?

Parables are not to be used to establish doctrine. Parables support other clear doctrinal passages.
Finally, the interpreter should be familiar with the history, geography, culture and customs of Bible times to properly interpret the parables. Familiarity with Jewish marriage customs, the practice of wine making, the art of farming in ancient Israel, etc. will help us to better understand the parables.

Parables: Divine Truths From Real Life Stories

Section One: The Work And Worth Of The Gospel

(The sower & the seed; the weeds;

the mustard seed and yeast; the hidden treasure/pearl)

Section Two: God’s Great Expectations

(The two debtors; the lost sheep; the unmerciful servant;

the good Samaritan; the tower builder & warring king;

the shrewd manager; the unworthy servants; the 10 minas)

Section Three: By Grace Alone; By Faith Alone
(The searching shepherd/woman/father; the persistent friend;

the pharisee and the publican; the laborers in the vineyard)

Section Four: Preparation For Judgment
(The rich fool; the narrow door; the seats at a wedding feast;

the great banquet; the wedding banquet; the net;

foolish & wise virgins; the tenants)

Section Five: Miscellaneous and Lesser-Known Parables

(The Parable of The Patched Garment And The Wineskins; Children In The Marketplace;

Parables Proving The Person Of Christ; The Empty House; The Owner of the House; Clean and Unclean; Lost Sheep and Dogs; The Yeast of the Pharisees; The Rock and the Keys; The Lamp of the Body;

The Fruitless Fig Tree; The Wise and Foolish Builders)

Section One: The Work and Worth of the Gospel

The Sower, The Seed, And The Soils

(Matthew 13:3-23; Mark 4:2-20; Luke 8:4-15)

To understand this parable, note that farmers in Jesus’ day simply broadcast the seed on untilled ground and then scratched the seed into the soil with a crude plow. A footpath of soil hardened by foot traffic, often ran around the perimeter of the field.

This parable and others seek to explain the nature of and operation of the “Kingdom of God” or “The Kingdom of Heaven”. What do these passages tell us about God’s kingdom?

Luke 17:20,21
John 18:36,37
Romans 14:17

We define “God’s Kingdom” as his gracious rule in our hearts through his Word.

What four results followed the farmer’s sowing of his field? (Mark 4:2-8)

Read Mark 4:10-12. For Jesus’ enemies, what purpose did these parables serve? What “secret” did the disciples know that enables them to understand the parables?

In verses 13-20, Jesus explains this parable to his disciples. In the first case, Satan takes away the word before it has a chance to sink in. Give examples of how the devil can take the Word away.

In the second case, why would someone “receive it [the Word] with joy, but have no root”? What are some of the issues/things in life that, spiritually-speaking, cause a shallow root system that, in turn, leads to the rather rapid death of a faith that initially seems to thrive?

Agree or Disagree……..A person like this person never had genuine faith in the first place.

In the third case, explain how worries and mixed-up priorities can choke out God’s Word in human hearts.

In the last case, what does Jesus mean when he says that the Word produces different amounts of fruit in people’s lives? Why is it dangerous to assume that all believers should produce the same amount of fruit in their lives?

This parable not only speaks to four types of hearers, but describes each of us individually as well. In what way is that true?

Our mission purpose, as a Christian Church, is to make and maintain disciples of Christ. How does a proper interpretation of this parable help us understand what we are to do?

The Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29)

On the basis of the previous parable, should we assume that some people are to receive credit for their salvation because they were “good soil” and accepted the Word whereas others rejected it? This parable shows us that the life that comes from a seed of grain, and spiritual life that comes from the seed of God’s Word, are both mysteries.

What warning can we take from this parable when we are tempted to tamper with or dress up God’s Word to make it more appealing to human hearts?
What comfort can we take from this parable as we seek to sow God’s Word in human hearts with sometimes fumbling efforts or little outward “success”?

The Weeds (Matthew 13:24-30; 36-43)

Jesus uses another familiar illustration from the agricultural world. How did Jesus explain this parable? (vv.36-43)

Why is it dangerous to say, “We’re going to get rid of all those people in our congregation who act like unbelievers”?

How does this parable help us to understand and deal with the disturbing fact that there are hypocrites even in Christian congregations?

Often we wonder “why” things in this world are so evil. Verse 28 gives a succinct answer……

The Mustard Seed and the Yeast (Matthew 13:31-35)

The mustard plant here pictured is not the 18 inch plant that grows in our garden. The oriental mustard plant can reach the height of a tree one year from planting (J. Dwight Pentecost, in his book The Parables Of Jesus, claims that he has a picture of a one-year-old mustard tree, 32 feet high!)

Knowing Satan’s opposition to God’s kingdom, an understandable question is “What will become of God’s kingdom if Satan so vigorously seeks to destroy it?” How does this parable answer that question?

The Bible speaks of the Gospel as something considered by many to be “foolishness”, “weak”, and “lowly” (1 Corinthians 1:27,28). For example, Baptism and the Lord’s Supper are regarded by many as mere rituals or symbols. When we speak about these Sacraments as “Means of Grace” through which God powerfully works, we are often met with skepticism and even ridicule. What evidence do we have, however, that these things are not as weak as they seem?
The parable of the Yeast in the dough focuses in on the way in which the Gospel works, which is similar to the working of yeast amid dough. Yeast works internally, and yet its work is all-pervasive and is readily observable.

How does this parable speak to the person who assumes (or presumes), “I can love however I want, as long as I believe”?

The Hidden Treasure And The Pearl of Great Price

(Matthew 13:44,45)

It was not uncommon for people in Bible times to bury part of their wealth as a means of keeping it secure in times of war or political unrest. People in ancient times placed an unusually high value on pearls, similar to how we might value gold, diamonds, or other precious gems today.

Does this parable teach that God’s kingdom is something that we obtain by giving up other things? (See Isaiah 55:1,2)

Does this parable teach us to hoarde the Gospel once we find it? (Mark 16:15)

This parable DOES teach us something about our attitude toward the Gospel. Namely, what?

Section Two: God’s Great Expectations

The Two Debtors (Luke 7:36-50)

The basis for this parable is an incident that occurs during a dinner Jesus attends at the home of a Pharisee named Simon.

What makes you wonder about the sincerity of this man’s invitation to Jesus? And if he did not invite Jesus out of true respect, why did he invite him?

The woman who enters Simon’s home is called “a woman who had lived a sinful life.” She was probably a prostitute. Pharisaic law made being touched by such a woman an act of defilement.

In addition, what kind of rabbi would accept an expensive perfume gift when it was undoubtedly purchased with sin-tainted money!? Why did Jesus allow this sorry, sobbing scandalous human being to even get near him?

What spiritual point does the parable make? What should it particularly have meant to Simon?

It was common hospitality in Eastern cultures to provide water for guest to wash their feet, to greet guests with a polite kiss, and to anoint the guest’s head with oil (considered by most to be an act symbolizing joy and festivity). Not only did Simon neglect to do this, but this sinful woman – in contrast — went beyond what was customary.

Do we ever consider ourselves less in need of forgiveness than others? When? Why?

In what ways do we view certain sinners with disgust? How should we be viewing them?
How would you have reacted to that woman? Would you have been embarrassed? Would you have thought she went overboard? When does showing love for Jesus become excessive? What is easier- To fall short of showing love for Jesus or to go too far?

The Lost Sheep (Matthew 18:10-14)

What was on the disciples’ minds that leads us into chapter 18? (See verse 1) What does this question tell us about their attitude and character?

Verses 10-14 contrast the disciple’s attitude and goals with God’s. The angels who “always see the face of my Father in heaven” rejoice whenever a sinner repents. What is Jesus’ point in this verse?

Contrast the attitude of the heavenly Father in this parable with that of the disciples in verse 1.

How does this parable influence how we look at others? How we look at ourselves? How we approach our ministry as a church and as individuals?

The Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18:21-35)

Jesus had just finished discussing how to deal with someone who has sinned against us. Peter has a question that seems quite natural, given the preceding conversation. “How many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me?”

We need to give Peter credit for the right motives, but the wrong mechanics. Pharisaic law demanded that one forgive two times, or three times if you wanted to exceed the standard. Peter also knew the law of love should prompt a Christian to be more forgiving than that. Even more than twice as forgiving. It seems he was anticipating Jesus to give him an answer somewhere between 3 and 7.

Note that Jesus’ use of the number “seventy times seven” was a Jewish idiom and was understood to mean an innumerable amount.

10,000 talents = millions of dollars
A few hundred denarii = A few dollars

What are some excuses we use to justify being unforgiving?

The parable gives us the reason why we are expected to forgive innumerable times. What is the number one motivating factor that makes the victim of a sin able to forgive the sinner. see Matthew 6:12; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13

“he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold . . .” The selling of a debtor who was not able to pay was not unusual in ancient times. “I will pay back everything.” A flat-out lie. Don’t many people think the same thing when it comes to salvation? Good works cannot pay God back for sins in our life.

The Roman Catholic church uses v. 34 as a proof passage for purgatory. Why is that not a legitimate interpretation?
What’s wrong (and dangerous) with this statement? “I just can’t forgive him/her for what he/she has done!”

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37)

To understand why Jesus spoke this parable, read verses 25-29. Why did this expert in the law ask the question, “And who is my neighbor?” What’s wrong with the lawyer’s question?

Look at Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18. What is emphasized in both passages? Why the emphatic repetition of “all?” What will prompt such love? (See I John 4:1)

In verse 28, the Greek word for “do this” means “keep on doing, never fail, never give up, never slip, never let go.” What is Jesus’ point in telling the lawyer, “Do this and you will live?” (Also, see Galatians 3:21)

Jesus’ parable is His answer to the man’s question. To understand this parable better, we want to note the following:

A priest was the highest and most repsected religious leader in Israel.
The Levites were temple workers; both the priest and the Levite therefore could well be considered as model, God-fearing Jews.
The Samaritans and Jews hated each other; the Jews considered the Samaritans as half-breed low-lifes because they were of mixed blood (Jewish and native Canaanite); Samaritans considered the Jews to be arrogant and overbearing. A Jew would have nothing to do with a Samaritan, and vice versa.

What reasons might that Priest and Levite have for not stopping to help that wounded man? Could their “reasons” be viable, spiritually speaking?

The main point of the parable is stated in verse 36. What is it?

Many misinterpret this parable. They assume that Jesus was teaching us to be kind to people. Acutally, this parable holds no comfort for us at all. Because it convicts us, just as it convicted that expert in the law…………of what?
This account points out sinful man’s wrong assumption that God is satisfied with our keeping common standards of basic, decent behavior. What ARE God’s standards? Can we “Go and do likewise?” If not, how can we have any hope of pleasing God?

In what ways are we, at times, like the Levite and priest? In what ways would you like to be more like the Good Samaritan? How is Jesus the true Good Samaritan?

The Tower Builder And The Warring King (Luke 14:25-35)

This parable leads the crowd following Jesus to consider whether they are willing to pay the price of living in this kingdom as a disciple of Christ.

In what sense does the call to follow Jesus include a call to “hate” even those close to us? How is it a call to “hate” even our own life?
Today, we hear the phrase “a cross to bear” and we think of something difficult we have to live with. However, in Jesus’ day, carrying a cross meant much more. It meant . . . what?

Why is it important to “count the cost” of discipleship?

According to this section of Scripture, who IS qualified to be a disciple? Are you qualified? Justify your response.

The Parable Of The Shrewd Manager (Luke 16:1-13)

After focusing on God’s desire to save sinners, Jesus teaches his disciples how to live in such a way as to show that rescuing souls is their main objective as well.

In Eastern business practice, as long as a manager collected what his owner demanded, he was free to take any added percentage for himself. Therefore, it is possible that even with the discounts the manager offered, he still returned the amount that his owner originally demanded. Regardless, the manager lost out on money that could have been his. About what was the manager most concerned?

Why did the owner “commend” the manager?

There’s no question that dishonesty was involved in this man’s plan. However, that is not the point of Jesus’ parable. Jesus wants to bring attention to the shrewdness of the manager, and for his disciples to take note.

In verse 8, who are the “people of this world?” (see Psalm 17:14) Who are the “people of light?” (see Ephesians 5:8) Why would people of the light want to be shrewd in dealing with people of the world?

You have a neighbor that moves in and you find out he and his family are atheists. What are some ways you can be “shrewd” in dealing with him? What factors will determine how “shrewd” you become?

Agree or Disagree: The manner in which I use my wealth on this earth determines to what degree God will bless me with more. (see 2 Corinthians 9:6)

What is the main point of this parable?
NOTE: Heaven is a gift. It has nothing to do with how we use our money. However, our use of wealth in a God-pleasing way may RESULT in many people being in heaven to welcome us one day.

Unworthy Servants (Luke 17:7-10)

In verses 1-6 of chapter 17, Jesus has just given some examples of the stringent demands of obedience that those who follow Him must follow. When they expressed their intimidation at such high standards, Jesus comforted them by telling them that, though their faith was small, yet because their faith was in him, it was powerful enough to enable them to great things for God!

This short parable, however, speaks to a different concern: the human tendency to judge our faithfulness to God on the basis of how we stack up compared to others. There’s always someone less faithful than we are. Often we are able to find that person in our lives. What does this parable say to us when we start to compare ourselves to others?

What are the evil consequences for me, for others, and for God when I conclude, “you know, compared to most people, I’m a pretty faithful Christian”?

The Ten Minas (Luke 19:11-27)

If someone gave you $l000.00 extra dollars, what would you do with it?
1. Invest it aggressively.
2. Put it in an insured bank account.
3. Stuff it in a mattress because you don’t trust banks.

The setting of this parable is that Jesus and his disciples are nearing Jerusalem on his last journey. Many believed Jesus would now establish His kingdom in Jerusalem. The story of Zacchaeus, just previous to this parable, points out the commitment to Jesus that accompanies a life of faith. Zacchaeus gave half of his possessions to the poor and paid back those he had cheated four-fold. The parable is all about faithfulness. Perhaps Jesus spoke this parable in Zacchaeus’ home.

Who’s the man who went into a far country and promised to return again? Who are the servants? Who are the people who say, “We don’t want you to rule over us?” What’s the distant country? What’s meant by the interval between when the nobleman left and would return?

(Verse 13) a mina was about three months wages. What does the mina that each servant received before the nobleman left in the parable represent? (see John 20:22). It could also be the means of grace God’s servants are to use faithfully until the end of the age. I Tim. 6:20. What are we to do with the mina until Jesus returns again?

In Biblical numerology the number ten, incidentally, consistently represents perfection or completeness.

The faithful servants in the parable showed their faithfulness by investing the money given to them by their master wisely and profitably. How can we show our faithfulness as God’s servants?

Should we expect tangible or visible rewards already now on earth?

What does Jesus mean in verse 26?

Should we be afraid of the Last Day when the Lord calls us to give an account?

Section Three: By Grace Alone…By Faith Alone

The Searching Shepherd, The Searching Woman, The Searching Father (Luke 15:1-32)

What precipitated these three parables? (v. 2)
These parables sharply contrast the attitude of the Pharisees toward sinners with God’s attitude toward sinners. How did a stereotypical Pharisee regard a “sinner”? What do these parable teach us about how GOD regards a sinner?

NOTE: Verse 7 reminds us that God is NOT in the business of rubber-stamping with his seal of approval the self-righteousness of people like the Pharisees. What really pleases him is rescuing repentant sinners. How do these parables challenge how we view ourselves?

List some details from these three parables that indicate the depth of God’s love for us.

Did you ever run away from home? Where did you go? What happened? (Or, Did you ever think of running away from home? Where would you have gone? Why did you change your mind?) Which child were you in your family, the “obedient” one or the “wild” one?

Why do you think the prodigal son decided to leave home?

In those times if a younger son left the family home for one reason or another, the older son was expected to stay at home and take care of the estate. However, the younger son had no right to demand his share of the inheritance when he did. According to Jewish law, the children could not divide the inheritance until after the father’s death. Then the firstborn (oldest) received a “double share” of the estate, and the other children shared the remainder of it (Deuteronomy 21:15-17). The younger son in the parable could have received a considerable amount of money.

What’s meant by the “distant country?” When are we off in a “distant country?” Why didn’t the father stop his son? Why doesn’t God stop us? What kind of pleasures can the world give?

Does God ever abandon someone to their foolishness? Romans 1:24,28.

Do you think that the father was wise to give his son his inheritance when he knew his son would probably blow it?
If the father had a pretty good idea where his son had gone, do you think he should have gone after him?

(Verses 17-19) What does the lost son realize he doesn’t deserve? What’s his only hope when he goes back home? What must we also realize we don’t deserve from God? What’s our only hope also?

Of what can we be sure when we return to our heavenly father? What’s the spiritual counterpart to the “best robe” (verse 22)? See Galatians 3:27; Isaiah.61:10. The ring signified son ship. Sons also wore sandals. Slaves went barefoot.

In the third parable, what flaws do you find in the protest of the older brother to his father’s goodness toward his younger brother? (vv. 28-30)

By temperament and experience, which of the three main characters do you best identify with in this story of the prodigal son/unforgiving brother/waiting father?

Agree or Disagree: Some “lost sons” can appear to be very nice, decent, family loving and church going people?

What’s the only food that nourishes and feeds the soul? What is some “pigs food” the world offers?

The Blind Guides (Matthew 7:3-5; Luke 6:39-42)
This parable is connected to Jesus famous “Sermon On The Mount.” In this sermon Jesus teaches almost the diametric opposite of what the Pharisees taught; namely, that an attitude of humility and mercy are more important than an outward show of righteousness; that sin is not only what one does but what one thinks; that God expects more than reasonably good behavior, that he expects perfection.

Read the parable in verses 39-40 of Luke 6. In what sense were the Pharisees “blind” leaders?

What does Jesus indicate as the consequences of such blind leadership?

Read verses 41,42. Then read Luke 6:1-10. How did the Pharisees prove themselves guilty of the sin this parable reveals? What was the plank in the Pharisees’ eye? Let’s apply this parable to ourselves. Should we ever point out sin in the life of a fellow Christian? (See 6:37) If so, what should be our attitude in doing so and our goal?

The Persistent Friend (Luke 11:1-10)

This entire section has to do with prayer. What would prompt the disciples to request “Lord, teach us to pray”? What’s so difficult about praying?

Verses 2-4 describe the nature of God-pleasing prayer. God-pleasing prayer will reflect that our greatest concern is God’s glory and his kingdom (gracious ruling) in the hearts of people, that spiritual matters are most important, that we are dependant on God for everything from basic physical needs to forgiveness to help in any trouble.

Verses 5-8 is a parable which makes what point about HOW we are to pray?

(This parable should remind us not to go too far in interpreting every detail of parables. For instance, we shouldn’t assume that God is like the man in the parable, answering our prayers merely because we keep bothering him.

Verse 9,10 should be an encouragement to us; however, what do you make of the claim that some make based on these words, that, if you really believe, God will answer all of your prayers?

Verses 11-13 are an argument from a lesser point to a greater. What is the point?

What is the greatest gift we can ask for?

The Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)

The purpose of this parable is in Luke 18:1. What is the purpose? Why do we need this parable?

There is an argument from the lesser to the greater from this parable. If even an unjust judge grants justice after much pleading, then certainly . . . what?

Is Jesus’ last statement in v. 8 a warning for the disciples or about the world they live in? Be prepared to defend your answer. What does verse 8 say to us?

The Pharisee And The Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14)

When you were in high school, what did it take to be with the “in” crowd? What was a guaranteed way to be out?
What is the purpose of this parable? (verse 9)

(Verse 11) Was the Pharisee really thanking God?

God prescribed only 1 day of fasting a year, the Day of Atonement. Lev. l6:29,31 Later the Jews observed four official days of fasting. The Pharisees fasted each Monday and Thursday, the days tradition says Moses ascended and descended Mt. Sinai. The Jews also weren’t commanded to give a tenth of everything. Small herbs, for example, were exempted.

Comment on the body language of the tax collector.

(Verse 14) justified = not condemned, innocent, fully forgiven, free and rid of all guilt and punishment, accepted and beloved to God. On what basis does God pronounce this verdict? Why was the Pharisee not justified?

What’s meant by “universal justification?” When did it take place? What’s meant by “personal justification?” When did it take place? Why is universal justification of such comfort to the penitent sinner?

Agree or Disagree: Even today the Pharisee and the tax collector go to the temple to pray.

How can religious feelings be deceiving? To what must we compare ourselves to get a true picture of ourselves?

How is this parable a comfort? How is it a warning?

The Laborers In The Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16)

The basis for this parable is Peter’s question in 19:27. Peter was curious about the reward he could expect as someone who had left everything to follow Jesus. What does this parable say to those who serve God because they want to get a bigger reward than everybody else?

This parable forces us to ask, “Why do I serve God?” It also forces us to ask whether we feel a “new” Christian has the same rights as we do in the congregation? How does this parable respond to both of those concerns?

Section Four: Preparation for Judgment

The Parable Of The Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21)

According to Jewish law, the eldest son received a double inheritance, with the provision he subsequently must support his mother and (any) unmarried sisters.

The man in our text seems to make a rather simple request of Jesus. Describe Jesus’ response and what flaw he points out in the man’s question…and heart.

What does Jesus mean in verse 15 by the term “a man’s life?”

There are hints regarding the attitude problem this man had. How did he get his crop? (pay careful attention to the wording in verse 16)

Does this parable say that it is wrong to plan ahead for the future? (See James 4:13-15) Is it right to put money away in a life insurance policy or a retirement account or even to have a savings account?
Pay careful attention to the wording he uses when he talks about material possessions. What do you notice that indicates just what was the problem with this rich man’s view of life? (See also Psalm 39:6; Psalm 49:10; Eccl. 2:18,21)

Why did God call him a “fool” in verse 20?

Agree or Disagree: To possess wealth gives a person a false sense of security

Aside from material wealth, what other earthly matters might give one a false sense of security?

What does it mean to be “rich toward God”? And how does one do that?

Where are your riches? What are three chief priorities for your life right now? How would you like to be remembered?
Where would you like to leave your riches?

The Net (Matthew 13:47-50)

The normal way to fish on the Sea of Galilee was to simply drag a net through the water. The net, of course, would collect both edible and inedible fish. Take note that Jesus is speaking this parable from a location near the Sea of Galilee, where the people may been able to see fisherman out on the water and plying their trade.

It is impossible to determine how many “keepers” there are in a net bulging with fish, simply by looking at the net. What lesson do we learn from this parable about the nature of the kingdom of heaven?

How does this parable serve as a warning to us?

Define the “wicked” and the “righteous” (See Romans 3:20-23)

Many today do not believe in the traditional understanding of hell as a place of fiery punishment. Verse 50 makes the nature of hell very clear.

The “gnashing of teeth” is symbolic of anger and frustration. Why are the inhabitants of hell frustrated and angry?

The Narrow Door (Luke 13:22-30)

In what respect is the door to heaven a narrow door?

The people outside the house claim to be acquainted with Jesus. Why does God deny knowing them?
If it is “evildoers” (v.27) who will be shut out of heaven, how can you or I stand a chance?
In verse 28, the “weeping” refers to sorrow and the “gnashing of teeth” refers to anger. Why will people shut outside of heaven grieve and be angry?

In verse 30, what was the message for the Jews of Jesus’ day? What is the message for us today?
The Seats At The Wedding Feast (Luke 14:7-11)

The feast Jesus was attending was also attended by Pharisees and teachers of the law. In what way was their behavior at this feast (grabbing the best seats) indicative of their spiritual attitudes?

What did Jesus’ specifically mean in his statement in verse 11? Think of some situations when we need to remember these words.The Great Banquet (Luke 14:15-24)

One of the guests at this banquet expresses his feelings about the blessedness of sharing in that future feast in the kingdom of God. The parable Jesus speaks directs that man’s attention AWAY from how wonderful heaven will be to whether he is willing, RIGHT NOW, to accept the invitation.

Who embodies God’s invitation to his heavenly feast? And how does one therefore reject God’s invitation to his kingdom?

The people in the parable had seemingly legitimate obligations in other matters. Why, then, are these people excluded from the feast and their “reasons” for not accepting the invitation called “excuses” (v. 18)?

This parable is all about priorities . . . in what sense?

What are some excuses humans use today for rejecting God’s invitation to his kingdom?

The Two Sons (Matthew 21:28-32)

This parable was spoken right in the temple courtyard before the chief priests and elders during the week of Jesus’ death. His words are blunt.

How were the tax collectors and prostitutes like the first son? How were the Pharisees and teachers of the law like the second son?

There is a difference between claiming obedience and actually obeying. What command from the Father were the religious leaders simply unwilling to obey (though they calimed to be truely obedient to God)?

Comment on this statement: “Oh, I’m sure she went to heaven. She was very religious.”

The Parable Of The Tenants (Matthew 21:33-44)

Note that the situation is the same as that surrounding the parable above.

Who or what is . . .1) The landowner 2) The tenants 3) The servants 4) The son 5) The vineyard 6) The expected fruit 7) The other tenants 8) Harvest time?

Note how the parables are very direct and obvious in meaning to confront the religious leaders with their obstinate refusal to accept the truth of Jesus Christ.

What does verse 44 mean?

Ready And Waiting Servants (Luke 12:35-48)

In verses 35-40, Jesus speaks of being prepared for his second coming. In the first illustraation of servants waiting for their master to return home, what highly unusual thing does the master do for his faithful servants? What does this tell us about the nature of our Savior?

The second illustration pictures Jesus’ coming like a thief breaking into a house. Why?

The parable in verses 42-46 reminds us that there is a temptation all of us face until Jesus returns. What is that temptation? In what ways do we emulate that unfaithful servant?
The final verses, 47-48, remind us that the privilege we have been given to know the Savior and his word so well comes an important responsibility; namely, what?

NOTE: Scripture does teach clearly that there will be different degrees of punishment in hell.

The Wedding Banquet (Matthew 22:1-14)

According to Jewish custom, when a couple was betrothed, an announcement was sent out regarding the impending marriage, which usually took place around one year later. This parable speaks about the subsequent personal invitations given shortly before the wedding.

The wedding clothes were special garments that guests were expected to wear to show their joy at the event being celebrated. Not wearing those garments was an insult.

Apply this parable to God’s dealings with Israel, focusing in on these details in the parable:

1. The repeated invitations

2. The apathetic and even hostile response

3. The subsequent invitation to anyone on the street

4. The importance of wedding clothing

What tendancies do we have that make this parable an apt warning for us?

In what way does this parable glorify God’s grace?

How does this parable help us to answer the charge: “I can’t believe a loving God would actually send people to hell.”

The Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)

Bridegrooms would walk in a festive procession from the home of the bride to the groom’s home. Guests could join the procession as it went along or greet the groom at his home. It was necessary, however, that the guests have lighted lamps. Each lamp would serve to further illuminate the home or banquet hall, and provide a bright and joyful atmosphere for the celebration.

Why did 5 of the 10 virgins fail to meet the groom? Whose fault was it? Why?

Verse 13 states the point of this parable. What is it?

What can lead us to not be prepared to meet Jesus when he returns?

Section Five: Miscellaneous Parables

The Parable of The Patched Garment And The Wineskins

(Matthew 9:16,17; Mark 2:21,22; Luke 5:36-39)
Jesus has been baptized by John, thereby authenticating the ministry of John as well as giving public witness of his identity as God’s Son and chosen Messiah. He has returned from the wilderness to Galilee and chosen his disciples. He has worked his first miracle (turning water into wine) in Cana of Galilee. He has returned to Jerusalem for the Passover. He has made his way back to Galilee, where he has set up headquarters at Capernaum. He has gone throughout the region proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God and healing many sick and demon-possessed people.

He has been ministering publicly long enough for the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law to become familiar with him and his message and to form some opinions about him. What do the following references tell you about the doctrine and practice of these religious leaders?

Matthew 6:5
Matthew 6:16-18
Luke 11:37-54
Luke 16:14

Is Jesus a friend or foe to them? Why?

John 1:13-22
Luke 5:17-26
Luke 5:27-32

Read Luke 5:33-39 in light of the last two references from Luke 5 we just studied. This was obviously not an honest question. It was meant to discredit Jesus. What did the question imply about Jesus and his disciples?

The Pharisees assumed that fasting won brownie points with God. Jesus answer implies that fasting isn’t a deed that impresses God. It is a sign of sorrow. When Jesus said his disciples shouldn’t fast in sorrow, because the bridegroom was with them, what was he claiming about himself?
The parable Jesus then speaks about the garment is designed to lead the Pharisees to conclude that their teaching doesn’t match Jesus’ teaching. Explain the difference and how the parable illustrates the incompatibility of the two.

The parable of the wineskins indicates that it is impossible to package Jesus’ message in the structure of Old Testament Law. Explain how the parable illustrates that and why the point of the parable is true.

This parable has to do with mixing up the Law and the Gospel. How do the following examples illustrate an improper use of Law and Gospel?

All you have to do to get to heaven is believe in Jesus and live a good life.

We really feel good about our church! We’re growing by leaps and bounds, we always have something going for every age group, and people say that we’re the friendliest group around!

No Christian who appreciates what Jesus did for them would EVER have done what you did! Does Jesus’ death for you mean ANYTHING to you at all?

The Ten Commandments are a real comfort to me because they keep me on track in my walk with God.

Children In The Marketplace (Matthew 11:16-19; Luke 7:29-35)

This parable is directed to the Pharisees and experts in the law. How did these people regard John’s ministry? (See Luke 7:29,30) What did they think of Jesus? (See notes on the parable of the Wineskins)
Jesus compares the religious leaders of his day to children at play. In verse 32, what are we told about the way that children act when it comes to choosing what to play.

How did the religious leaders also act this way? (See vv. 33,34). In verses 33 and 34, what are we told about the different nature of John’s
and Jesus’ ministry?

Our sinful nature also resists both the Law and the Gospel. List some examples.

Parables Proving The Person Of Christ (Matthew 12:22-30; Mark 3:22-27)

What precipitated the parable-based teaching of this section? (See vv 22-24)

List the arguments Jesus uses to show how ridiculous and simple-minded the accusation that Jesus is driving demons out by the power of the devil is. (v26-29)

What conclusion, arising from Jesus’ obviously real and God-given miracle-working power, did the Pharisees not want to accept? Why not?

Many today want to find some reason to dismiss anything about Jesus that points to his divine nature. Why is it simple-minded for someone to think he can separate Jesus from his miracles and end up with “Jesus, the great humanitarian-teacher”?

The Empty House (Matthew 12:43-45)

What leads to Jesus’ words in this section? Read 12:38. The current religious leaders again show their absolute ridiculousness when they ask Jesus for a sign that will prove he is the Messiah sent from God. Why in the world would they need a sign, given all the miracles Jesus had already performed!? Their request merely betrays their refusal to accept the truth that had already been made clear.

Read the parable. It speaks about a demon-possessed man who enjoyed freedom from demon possession for a while, but in the end was possessed by seven demons rather than merely one.

Many Israelites who had rejected God repented when John the Baptist brought his message to Israel and pointed them to the Messiah, Jesus. But many of those baptized by John later rejected Jesus and so their fate was worse at the end.

What warning can we take from this parable?

How does this parable move us to reach out more energetically to our fallen-away friends and relatives?

The Owner Of The House (Matthew 13:51,52)

In order for the teachers of the law to give their listeners the full revelation of God, they first had to be instructed in the kingdom of heaven themselves. What did they need to learn about the kingdom of heaven? (Matthew 3:1-3)

What are the old treasures? What are the new treasures?
Christian teaching is more than just a matter of imparting knowledge or facts; it’s sharing treasures! List some of the treasures that Christian teachers (such as parents, Sunday School teachers, and every Christian witness) are privileged to share.

Clean And Unclean (Matthew 15:1-20)

Since the time of the return from the Baylonian Capitivity, the teachers of the law had added additional regulations and laws to the Mosaic Law. Two of those “traditions of the elders”, as they were called, are mentioned in the opening verses. One is the practice of ceremonial washing before meals, and the other is the practice of dedicating something as a special gift to God.

In their effort to keep the man-made traditions of the Elders, the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law ended up breaking God’s clear commands. How does Jesus illustrate that? How do the Isaiah passages support Jesus’ accusation?

Read 15:10,11 and then 15:15-20 for the explanation of this parable.

Our sin and our need for a savior is more serious if we view sin as a matter of the heart and rather than as a matter of one’s life. Why is that?
NOTE: This was a theme Jesus hit again and again in his discussions with the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law. Without a true understanding of sin, there isn’t much need for a Savior.

Read 15:12-14 Jesus here tells his disciples why they shouldn’t be surprised if the Pharisees were offended by Jesus’ words, nor should they let the Pharisees intimidate them as men who seem to be in control.

Lost Sheep And Dogs (Matthew 15:21-28)

Jesus’ ministry was conducted primarily for the benefit of God’s people, the Jews. Jesus’ mission was conducted for all people. Jesus’ is referring only to his ministry in verse 24.

In Jesus’ statement in verse26, who are the children? What is the bread? Who are the dogs?

In the woman’s reply, what was she saying to Jesus? How would you describe this woman’s faith?

Jesus didn’t help her right away; in fact he seemed to ignore her and then cut her down. Why did he deal with her in this manner?

The Yeast Of The Pharisees And Sadducees (Matthew 16:5-12)

The point of this parable is obvious and extremely important. The false teaching of the religious leaders was like yeast- it influenced a person’s entire thinking and life.

Note what had happened leading up to this parable. The religious leaders had asked Jesus for a sign to prove he was the Messiah. That doesn’t seem so bad, does it? How did this request, however, give evidence of their false beliefs and teaching?

One of Satan’s biggest lies is that a little false teaching is no big deal. A little false teaching can lead to toleration or acceptance of more false teaching and ultimately destroy one’s faith and eternal future.

The Rock And The Keys (Matthew 16:13-19)

The Roman Catholic Church states that this reference is Scriptural evidence that Christ chose Peter to be the first pope, and that all
successors of Peter have the headship of the church that Christ entrusted to Peter.

However, while Jesus DID change Simon’s name to Peter, which means “rock” because of his rock-solid confession of who Jesus was, Jesus was NOT referring to Peter when he said, “On this rock I will build my church.” The Greek word for “rock” in that phrase is of the feminine gender, and therefore cannot refer to Peter (masculine gender); it must refer to Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Christ and Son of God.

What are the keys Jesus speaks of? (See John 20:23)

The Lamp Of The Body (Luke 11:33-36)

Earlier in this chapter Jesus drove a demon out of a man and some concluded this miracle was accomplished through the power of Satan.
Others demanded that Jesus prove he was really God by a “sign” from heaven.

This parable shows that the problem for those who would not accept Jesus is NOT that there isn’t enough evidence. How does verse 33 point that out (if the lamp is Jesus)?

In verse 34, the eyes are “faith”, what is Jesus saying to those who refused to accept him as God and Savior?

In verses 35 and 36, what is Jesus saying about the person who truly believes in him?

This parable should be a good reminder to us that some people simply don’t WANT to believe, though they may claim that the evidence for Christianity isn’t compelling enough.

How does this understanding actually help us when we witness our faith to others?

NOTE: One year away from his death, Jesus begins now to use much clearer language. Consider what he says in the rest of this chapter.

The Fruitless Fig Tree (Luke 13:1-9)

This parable was spoken by Jesus in response to a question that has always plagued mankind. Why does tragedy strike some and not others? Jesus doesn’t answer that question. Rather, he addresses the attitude of those who asked it.

Rather than being concerned about whether somebody else was under God’s judgment, what should they be concerned about?

In verses 6-9, who is the vineyard owner, the vineyard tender, and the fig tree.

What is the point of the parable . . . about God? about stubborn Israel?

The Wise And Foolish Builders (Matthew 7:24-29; Luke 6:46-49)

Multitudes had been attracted to Jesus and his teaching. Many were amazed that he spoke with authority that even the Teachers of the Law did not have. But fascination with Jesus is not the same as faith in Jesus.

How does the parable in Luke 6:43-49 make that point? In what sense are we all builders? What is the rock foundation? What are the consequences of building or not building on the rock?
In what ways do we call Jesus “Lord” but live as if we are the lords of our lives?

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We Are Saved By Grace Alone!

The Parables of our Lord

Divine Truths From Real Life Stories

The Role And Interpretation Of Parables

What is a parable?

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Without Any Question Mark….

We Are Saved By Grace Alone!

The Parables of our Lord

Divine Truths From Real Life StoriesThe Role And Interpretation Of Parables What is a parable?

Divine Truths From Real Life Stories

The Role And Interpretation Of Parables

What is a parable?