The Parable of the People | Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 | Pastor Neil McClendon

Neil McClendon, Lead Pastor Grand Parkway Baptist Church = = = = = = = = = = = = = Songs: Rejoice (Getty) Move Of God Jesus Be The Name Made For More = = = = = = = = = = = = = The Parable of the People Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 1. First person, v. 18 Understand means to set or join together in the mind. • Romans 8:7 Two things… 1) have a belief about the Word • 2 Peter 1:19 2) stand under the Word 2. Second person, v. 20 “Falls away” is the Greek word ‘skandalizo’ which means “to cause a person to begin to distrust and desert one whom he ought to trust and obey; to be offended in one, to see in another what I disapprove of and what hinders me from acknowledging his authority.” How do I go deeper… a) suffer well b) solitude c) silence 3. Third person, v. 22 This person lacks priorities because of two things: a) cares of this world Five things people worry about the most… 1) money and financial stability 2) health and well being 3) macroeconomics and global instability 4) relationships and social judgment- what others think 5) failure and the future b) deceitfulness of riches “I think everybody should get rich and famous and have everything they ever dreamed of so they can see that that’s not the answer.” -Jim Carrey Diagnostic questions to help us think clearly about money… • Do you think more money would make you happy? • Do you use money to control people so you can get your way? • Do I see money as the means by which I get what I really need? • Do I believe I am more deserving than those who have less or more? • Am I stingy or have I grown in the joy of generosity? • Does being generous still humble you? • Am I content to be anonymous in my giving or do I like people knowing? • Do I manage well what I have been given and can I enjoy it guilt-free? • Who’s reputation grows as my money grows? • Can I meaningfully experience all that I possess? • In my hands, is money a weapon or a tool? 4. Fourth person, v. 23 Mental worship… 1. What do you most often stand under and how has that affected your understanding? 2. Do you change in the context of suffering? If so, how? 3. Does money ever deceive you? 4. How are your priorities affected by your anxiety? 5. How does the Gospel speak to what you care too much about?