Sunday, May 17, 2009
Jesus will change your life!
KNOWING JESUS WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE
Luke 19: 1-24
INTRO: The account of the conversion of Zacchaeus and the parable of the 10 minas seem to be disconnected. But on further thought, they seem to fit. Let's consider:
ZACCHAEUS THE MAN
Tax collector- Traitor- Possibly dishonest
Curious about Jesus
Determined to see Him
Even to climbing the tree
ZACCHAEUS THE SOUGHT
Why did Jesus stop under the tree?
Possibly looking for someone willing to listen to Him
Come Zacchaeus! I want you!
ZACCHAEUS THE CHANGED MAN
Willing to repay 4fold anything he had gained dishonestly
Gave ½ his wealth to help the poor
Jesus said that salvation had come to this house.
Why? Did the gifts bring salvation? No, they were a result
As Jesus had shared with him, he found new meaning to life
As such, his focus turned to others
THEN THERE ARE THE MINAS
Each servant was entrusted with funds by the king
At least two faithfully invested and received various returns
They were commended and rewarded
One buried his money for safe keeping
Focus was on himself and possible loss
Focus should be on master and others.
-------- As followers of Jesus Christ, our focus will be on Him and His people. We will trust Him and not be fearful about personal loss or needs. This is because we trust Him not our own efforts. Are you trusting Jesus today? For salvation? For life? Why not?
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May 17, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Church
