Theme verse: Matthew 13:34-35(NLT) 34Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables. 35This fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet: “I will speak to you in parables. I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world.”
Matthew 13:44-46(NKJV) 44“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. 45“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, 46who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Hebrews 12:2(NIV) fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Acts 20:28(NIV) Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood.
How do you see yourself in a relationship with God?
1.
John 5:39(NIV) You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me.
2.
Luke 15 - Prodical Son
3.
Matthew 15:8(NIV) “ ‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.
4.
Philippians 3:8(NIV) What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ.
Big Idea: Jesus didn’t come to get people to Heaven,
Additional Notes: