Tell Us A Story – Of Spiritual Insincerity

Tell Us A Story – Of Spiritual Insincerity is the second sermon in our series on the parables of Jesus.  Do you know anyone who is fake?  In the sermon I referenced Milli Vanilli – the 80s pop group that was busted lip syncing.  They aren’t the only ones who have a hard time telling the truth.  They were living a lie!  In the parable of the two sons, one son says that he’ll obey his father’s wishes, but he doesn’t.  The other son refused to obey, but then – in the end – did what his father asked.  Which son are you?

Before you answer, neither of the sons is a model.  What parent would want to choose between these kids.  How hard is it to hears a command and then do it?  When it comes to God’s commands this is impossible.  If you have kids, you know the disappointment of a child who says, yes sir.  Right away, sir!  Only to have the job left undone.  On the other hand, how rude it is to have a child refuse a simple request, only to be pleasantly surprised when the job finally gets done.

Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God ahead of you. 32For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him.

There are two ways to avoid the grace of God – you might think, who wants to do that?!  Hear me out.

• First it’s the completely disobedient – I hate God – everything about him. It is my life’s work to reject everything God places before me.  That’s obviously bad.
• The second is the completely obedient – I love God so much, I tithe my vegetables and dryer lint. Wow am I good.  God much truly love me!  In fact, God owes me, for all my years of service.

Both are dangerous.  I’ll ask you once more which son are you?  As I consider my life, the truth is that I have been both.  There are times when I reject everything God wants from me.  I’ve failed miserably.  And on the other hand did you know that I’m a pastor?  Does that mean I’m better than everyone else?  That selfish pride is such a siren singing her song to my soul.  It’s dangerous.

Want to hear more?  Watch this week’s message taken from Matthew 21.