Thinking About Getting Out of the Boat III-B
August 11, 2008
Lesson 3: Discussion of the Boat Potato, Part 2
Wednesday and Sunday Adult Bible Class - Summer Lesson Series
West Broad Church of Christ
August 3 and 10, 2008
Dr. J.L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
(Adapted from materials by John Ortberg)
Introduction:
We determined previously that each person has a gift, but each person also has a choice. Scripture continually challenges us to consider the question: “What will I do with what I have, and when will I do it?” We will continue to explore this question today by considering Christ’s role in terms of our gifts and choices as Christians in downtown Richmond.
I. The Role of Christ - He is Lord of the Gift
Christ’s parable of the talents recorded in Matthew 25 contains information and insight of which we should be extremely mindful.
· The status of the master;
· The action of the master;
· The girth of the gifts;
· Distance and deliberation;
· Christ as the master
Despite the opportunity for service provided by the Lord of the Gift, the boat potato refuses to make a contribution. What is the result of this course of action?
II. The Role of Christ - He is Lord of the Settled Account
All accounts must be settled, both physically and spiritually. We see evidence of this in Matthew 25.
· Considering the calendar. Question: Do you think we understand this concept as Christians? If we do, why do so many of us fail to employ the aggressive “investment strategies” of the first two servants?
· Playing “the when-then game;”
· Just my imagination (or is it!). Question: How do you respond to this exercise? Are there steps you are willing to take to “re-shoot” your movie? If so, what are they and when will you begin?
· Asking and answering
III. The Role of Christ - He is Lord of the Reward
Matthew 25 makes it clear that God does not expect persons to work for nothing.
· Re-thinking the reward;
· Toward an “active” retirement. Question: Does this discussion shape your concept of the reward God has for you? How?
Conclusion:
We can avoid being boat potatoes if we understand (and apply) specific truths aboutJesus Christ. God has an incredible future and present prepared for his people. But they are not inside the boat. No, we have to be water-walkers if we are going to succeed in Jesus. That being true, have you gotten your feet wet, lately?
