Sermon: Curt Allen
Solid Rock Church
November 16, 2008

Some thoughts and questions to consider

Humble towards God (versus 9-14)

“WE ARE NEVER CALLED TO MEASURE OURSELVES BY THE ACTIONS OF MEN.
WE ARE CALLED TO MEASURE OURSELVES BY THE STANDARDS OF GOD!”

1. What does it mean to have a tax collector moment? when was the last time you had one? What should you do to cultivate having these moments?
2. How should Isaiah 66:1-2 inform the way we think about ourselves and about God?
3. In what ways do you see that you are not aware of mercy? How does the cross help us be aware of our sin but aware of His grace?

Dependent on God (versus 15-17)

“Not only do children have entrance into the kingdom of God, but children are in fact the pattern for entrance into the kingdom of God.”

1. What does child like faith in the Lord mean?
2. Why is God pleased if we enter the kingdom like a child?
3. What are attributes of a child that you need help growing in?

Willing to sacrifice everything for God (versus 18-30)

It is impossible for self-confident people try to gain entry in the kingdom on their own strength.
But it is possible for those who are willing to sacrifice everything for God.

1. What’s the difference between the coming kingdom of God and the kingdom of God in or hearts?
2. What areas have you been unwilling to sacrifice for God (personality, particular sin issue, relationship etc.)? Who knows about them?
3. What would it take to put God above all else?
4. Are there any areas in your life where Jesus dying on the cross to forgive sin has minimized your responsibility to grow in godliness?

Pray through Isaiah 66:1-2 and memorize