First & Last Paradox
This week, Pastor Charles will be sharing from Matt 20:1-16 dealing with a parable landowner which addresses being the first and last in the Kingdom of God. We already seen that the young rich ruler who had everything will be last and those like Peter who left everything will be first. Right after that, Jesus begins a lesson on another aspect of being first and last. The main point of the parable was to show that all who places their faith in Christ will inherit the kingdom of God in the same way. This speaks to two great attributes of God 1) being gracious and 2) being generous. Ultimately, the Kingdom of God is not like the world.
Discussion Questions:
Who is the most gracious and generous person you have ever met? Describe a situation where that person reflected extreme generosity or grace. How did that make you feel when you witnessed those attributes? Share. If these attributes are so attractive, why don't many people show them more often? Discuss.
Read Matt 20:1-16. How was the landowner gracious in this parable? Share. In what ways is the landowner reflective of God? Discuss. Pastor Charles mentioned 3 possible aspects to the landowner giving everyone the same amount. Share those points. And discuss how it reflects the grace of God.
How did the landowner show generosity toward the workers? Share. Discuss the indiscriminate way in which the landowner invited people and how this reflects the generous heart of God. How does God's generous nature also revealed in the gospel? Share.
In what ways does God's graciousness and generosity draw you closer to Him? Share.
How does this parable reveal the principle of first and last in the kingdom of God? What do you think is the take away from this parable? Discuss. What takeaways or applications could we implement into our lives starting today? Share.
