April Fools

Living Hope Presbyterian Church

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Matthew 11

Matthew 11: 7 As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. 9 What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is he of whom it is written,

“‘Behold, I send my messenger before your face,

who will prepare your way before you.’

11 Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. 13 For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John, 14 and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. 15 He who has ears to hear, let him hear.

16 “But to what shall I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to their playmates,

17 “‘We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we sang a dirge, and you did not mourn.’

18 For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ 19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”

ESV: The Holy Bible, English Standard Version ©2011 Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers. All rights reserved.

Sermon Summary: The sermon delves into Matthew chapter 11, focusing on Jesus’ response to John the Baptist’s disciples and the crowd’s perception of both John and Jesus. It emphasizes the contrast between John’s ascetic lifestyle and Jesus’ more inclusive approach, highlighting how both were criticized by different groups. The sermon underscores the importance of not conforming to societal expectations but following Christ faithfully, even if it leads to opposition. Jesus challenges the crowd’s foolish words and calls for open ears to hear the truth, emphasizing the wisdom found in following Christ despite the world’s disapproval.

Key Points:

• Jesus praises John the Baptist as a significant prophet and herald of Christ.
• The contrast between John’s austere lifestyle and Jesus’ inclusive interactions with various groups.
• The challenge of not conforming to societal expectations but following Christ faithfully.
• Wisdom is justified by deeds, emphasizing the importance of living for Christ and bearing fruit.

Bible Verses Mentioned:

• Matthew 11:7-19
• Malachi (referenced indirectly)

Humor and Anecdotes:

• The sermon humorously references children’s pranks with fake gum, illustrating the disappointment when others don’t play along.
• An anecdote about a commercial where people listen intently when EF Hutton speaks, likening it to the importance of listening when Jesus speaks.

Key Quotes:

• “Wisdom is justified by her deeds.”
• “When Jesus talks, people ought to listen.”
• “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

Themes:

• Non-conformity to societal norms in following Christ.
• Wisdom demonstrated through faithful deeds and living for Christ.
• The challenge of facing opposition for following Jesus.
• Importance of listening to Jesus and not conforming to worldly expectations.

Discussion Questions:

1. How can we navigate the tension between societal expectations and following Christ faithfully in our daily lives?
2. In what ways have you experienced opposition or criticism for living out your faith authentically? How did you respond?
3. How can we cultivate open ears to truly listen to Jesus amidst the noise and distractions of the world?

Metaphors and Stories:

• The comparison of children playing different games to the crowd’s inability to agree on how John and Jesus should behave, highlighting their resistance to non-conformity.
• The analogy of planting peas needing a trellis to grow, symbolizing how wise deeds require a foundation in Christ to bear fruit.

This analysis provides a comprehensive breakdown of the sermon’s key elements, encouraging reflection on living faithfully for Christ despite societal pressures and opposition. .