This week Greg explores Matthew 21, focusing on the parable of the two sons. This parable is part of a larger confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees, highlighting the difference between outward religious appearance and genuine repentance and obedience.

 

Key Themes:

The Triumphal Entry and Jesus' Authority:

Jesus enters Jerusalem as a king, fulfilling prophecy, but His actions defy expectations. Instead of taking a throne, He cleanses the temple, challenging the religious status quo.

The Pharisees question Jesus' authority, revealing their resistance to His message and their preference for a Messiah who fits their expectations.

 

 

The Parable of the Two Sons:

A father asks his two sons to work in the vineyard. The first son initially refuses but later repents and goes. The second son agrees to go but does not follow through.

The first son represents those who repent and obey, while the second son symbolizes those who offer lip service without true obedience.

 

 

Repentance vs. Religious Appearance:

True repentance involves a change of mind and heart, leading to action. It is not merely feeling sorry for getting caught but a genuine turning towards God.

The Pharisees, despite their religious appearance, lack true repentance. Jesus warns that tax collectors and prostitutes, who have repented, will enter the kingdom before them.

 

 

The Vineyard and the Kingdom of God:

The vineyard represents God's kingdom, and working in it signifies active participation in God's mission.

Greg challenges listeners to move beyond religious rituals and embrace a life of obedience and mission, carrying the kingdom's DNA into the world.

 

 

 

The Call to Action:

Greg emphasizes that God desires obedience, not perfection. He calls for a heartfelt "yes" to God's call, leading to action and transformation.

 

He concludes with an invitation to examine one's life, repent where necessary, and engage actively in God's mission.

 

 

 

 

Small Group Questions:

Understanding the Parable:

How do the actions of the two sons in the parable reflect different responses to God's call? Which son do you relate to more, and why?

 

 

Repentance and Obedience:

What does true repentance look like in your life? Can you share a time when you experienced a change of mind and heart that led to action?

 

 

Religious Appearance vs. Genuine Faith:

In what ways might we be tempted to offer lip service to God rather than genuine obedience? How can we guard against this in our spiritual lives?

 

 

The Kingdom Mission:

How do you understand the concept of working in God's vineyard? What does it mean for you to carry the kingdom's DNA into your daily life?

 

 

Personal Reflection:

Are there areas in your life where you have said "yes" to God but have not followed through with action? What steps can you take to align your actions with your intentions?

 

 

Community and Accountability:

How can our small group support each other in moving from religious activity to genuine obedience and mission? What practical steps can we take together?

 

 

Prayer and Commitment:

Spend time in prayer, asking God to reveal areas of needed repentance and to empower you to live out His mission. Share any commitments you feel led to make with the group.

This sermon challenges us to examine our hearts, move beyond mere religious activity, and embrace a life of true obedience and mission in God's kingdom.