This morning the Gospel reading at HMP Canterbury Chapel was the sequel to
last week's Gospel reading.
Gospel : Luke 12:32-40
1. A WORD OF CONSOLATION 32
a. Fears about their Fewness.
The numbers game. Do you feel discouraged when you see what a small minority
the Christians are? If Christianity is the one true religion, why do so few
people seem to believe it?
b. Fears about their Foes.
There are many enemies. There are many difficulties. There is much weakness
and unworthiness. Why are there so many rival religions?
c. Fears about their Future.
What is in it for us? Why are Christians being persecuted in so many places?
Why is the Church declining in Britain? (whilst growing in Africa, China, and
South America)
Jesus replies "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been
pleased to give you the kingdom." Believers are a little flock. They always
have been. The world, the flesh, and the devil are our enemies. They always
have been. We will be mocked and persecuted. Jesus was despised and rejected.
So shall we be, if we follow him. But the sufferings of this life are not
worthy to be compared with the glories of heaven. We have many precious
promises; God is pleased to give us citizenship in the Kingdom of Heaven. The
world the flesh and the devil are mighty enemies; but with Christ on our side,
we are more than conquerors through him that loved us (Romans 8:37).
2. A WORD OF EXHORTATION 33-34
a. We are to Sell.
We are to give up everything that stands in the way of receiving Christ. We
are to deny ourselves the things of the world, the flesh, and the devil.
b. We are to Give.
We are to show charity and kindness to all, to be ready to give to good causes
rather than hoard up wealth for our own pleasure. Charity begins at home; we
must provide for our dependants: wife and children, elderly parents too.
Freely you have received; freely give (Matthew 10:8).
c. We are to Provide...
for ourselves treasure in heaven. There are rewards for faithful service:
"Well done, good and faithful servant". Good and Faithful; not Good and
Successful. If our treasure is in heaven, then our hearts will be in heaven
too. There are no pockets in a shroud. We cannot take our money away with us.
3. A WORD OF INSTRUCTION 35-40
a. Christ will return suddenly.
Compare Revelation 3:20. The master returns and knocks. If we hear and let him
in, he will sup with us and we with him.
b. Christ will return unexpectedly.
As unexpectedly as a thief in the night. Spurgeon asked his students "Do you
think Christ will return tonight?". They all said "He could; but we don't
think he will". "Gentlemen: at such a time as *you think not*, the Son of Man
will return" (40; Matthew 24:44).
___________________________________________________________________________
Ben
--
Revd Ben Crick, BA CF
232 Canterbury Road, Birchington, Kent, CT7 9TD (UK)
http://www.cnetwork.co.uk/crick.htm
