Yesterday morning, I was back in the Gospel of Luke, chapter 16:14-17.
The title of the message was, "Self is the Salvation of Man." You can watch or listen by going here later today.
Here a some questions to continue your thinking on the Scripture text and the message:
1. Bro. Matt said that he seemed to think the theme of the entire chapter of Luke 16 is found in verse 15 where Jesus said to the Pharisees: "For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God." What are some themes/subjects you see in Luke 16 that men exalt and God hates?
2. Which one of these subjects do you most wrestle with? Why?
3. Bro. Matt said that he believed the correct interpretation of Jesus' words in Luke 16:16 regarding "everyone forcing his way into the kingdom" was that those who are members of the kingdom of God have had a supernatural, Holy Spirit driven force awaken them to their understanding of their need of Christ.
Supporting texts he used were: Ezekiel 36:26-27; John 3:3-8; John 6:44; 2 Corinthians 4:6; Ephesians 2:4-5; 1 John 5:1
Do you agree with his interpretation? Why or why not?
How does the context of Luke 16 help with this interpretation?
4. Why is it that deciding to "turn over a new leaf in life" regarding one's relationship with God is really something God hates?
5. Why is it that trying to make yourself right with God on your own an abomination to God?
6. In what ways have you been guilty of trying to earn a right status with God by reflecting on your own good works and deeds and efforts? How have you been guilty of trying to ease your own conscience by reflecting on your 'righteous works'? Why is doing this something that is despised by God?
7. What is the biblical way of being right with God? Why is this SO important?
8. The Pharisees were guilty of ridiculing Jesus after they heard his discussion about money. What has Jesus been calling you to do with your resources that you have been putting off, or ignoring, or in a sense 'ridiculing' Jesus for calling you to such radical action?
1 comment:
I’m not from Wynne but visited WBC this past Sunday. Matt’s sermon was a powerful presentation of the Word. Regarding verse 16, I had never heard that verse quoted in support of Monergism. However, I agree with Matt’s interpretation. It is difficult to comprehend how anyone can come to Christ unless God first regenerates the heart. Both possible translations were well presented. Wynne Baptist is blessed to have a pastor who rightly divides the Word of God with such passion.
Darryl Wine
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