Sovereign Grace Bible Church

Jim Kang, Pastor-Teacher

THE ENTRANCE OF THE KING

Matthew 21:1-46

INTRODUCTION

From this point on in Matthew’s Gospel, the focus now shifts toward Jerusalem as verse 1 shows. We would no longer read of Jesus ministering in Galilee and nearby towns. All of that came to end in the previous chapter. That means from now on we will see that Jesus is getting one step closer to his trial, suffering, crucifixion, and death.

From this chapter I want to point out several important implications.

I. Jesus is the one that the OT prophesied (vv. 1-4).

Or, to say it another way, Jesus is the fulfillment of the OT prophesies.

How many times have you noticed Matthew repeatedly mentions about the fulfillment of prophecies throughout this document? Since this document is specifically targeted for the Jewish audience, Matthew labors to point out that such and such is the fulfillment of this, and so on. For Matthew, he wants to his readers to understand that there are many compelling evidences that Jesus is indeed their Messiah, the King, the Christ, the Holy and the Anointed One that the OT speaks of.

This morning we come to another prophetic evidence that Matthew points out that Jesus is indeed the fulfillment of the OT. However, before we look at Matthew’s specific prophetic evidence in this text, I just want to say that every time when Jesus is mentioned in connection with the fulfillment of prophecy, this ought to remind us all that Jesus is a faithful, covenant keeping God.

From the various Gospel writers, especially, in Matthew, it seems as though Jesus goes out of his way to obey or to fulfill the Scripture. This reminds me once again what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount.

^NAU Matthew 5:17 ¶ “Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill.

One commentator writes, “Jesus consciously fulfilled the words of the prophet.”[1]

If Jesus consciously fulfilled the words of God, how much more we need to consciously obey God’s word? May this be your new year’s resolution: resolved to obey God’s word consciously!

This particular OT prophecy in verse 5 is from Zechariah 9:9 and Isaiah 62:11.

• ^NAU Zechariah 9:9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, Humble, and mounted on a donkey, Even on a colt, the foal of a donkey.

• ^NAU Isaiah 62:11 Behold, the LORD has proclaimed to the end of the earth, Say to the daughter of Zion, “Lo, your salvation comes; Behold His reward is with Him, and His recompense before Him.”

II. What Jesus rode into Jerusalem signifies the character and the purpose of his first coming (vv. 5-7).

Here Jesus is portrayed as the King of meekness. Unlike many kings of this world, Matthew wants his readers to know that this King is meek and gentle. For Matthew, his prophetic illustration is through a specific type of animal that Jesus rode into the city of Jerusalem, namely a donkey.

This is not the way a king would typically ride into a city. He usually rides in a all-decked out chariot with heavily guarded soldiers or rides on a mighty stallion that is used for war. But on a donkey? Seriously?

A donkey is generally known as an animal of peace. It signifies gentleness or meekness. Moreover, it is an animal that bears much burden. Hence, what Jesus rode into Jerusalem signifies the character and the purpose of his first coming.

• ^NAU Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.

• ^NAU Matthew 11:28 “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. ²⁹ “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. ³⁰ “For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

At his first coming, Jesus was born at a lowly place into a lowly family. He grew as a humble man and laid aside his privileges to become a servant (Philippians 2). And finally, he gave up his life and died as though he lived my life, so that I could now live as though I live his life.

But here’s a catch. God’s redemptive story does not end with the first coming of Jesus. That is, the Bible does not end with Matthew’s Gospel, but with the book of Revelation. And the last book of the Bible tells us that Jesus is coming again. But this time he will not come riding on a donkey, but on a mighty war horse, with loud trumpet noise, as a judge who will deliver mighty judgments against the unrighteous. Let me give you a preview of what is to come:

^NAU Revelation 19:11 ¶ And I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse, and He who sat on it is called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and wages war. ¹² His eyes are a flame of fire, and on His head are many diadems; and He has a name written on Him which no one knows except Himself. ¹³ He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. ¹⁴ And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses. ¹⁵ From His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may strike down the nations, and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. ¹⁶ And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.”

III. People are fickle and will turn on you (vv. 8-11).

Notice the enthusiasm of these people. They even made some awesome public show of profession and praise to Christ. In fact, their theology concerning Jesus was right on. The term “Son of David” is a major Messianic title.

Up to this point, many people have witnessed all sorts of demonstrations of Christ power. Also, many have heard his teachings and sermons. In fact, for the people to say “This is the prophet Jesus” is actually the best accolade they could give to Jesus because to be called a prophet is the highest credential one could have at the time. In fact, from this side of the cross, we can now understand that Jesus is indeed the fulfillment of Deuteronomy 18:15, which said:

^NAU Deuteronomy 18:15 ¶ “The LORD your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your countrymen, you shall listen to him.

All that is to say, these crowds are showing much displays of public praise to Christ. They had the enthusiasm and even said the right doctrine concerning Christ. However, these same people who warmly and enthusiastically welcomed and greeted Jesus are the same people who would say in a little while, “Away with Jesus! Away with him!”

Also, as the rest of the Gospel shows that not only the crowds will later turn on Jesus, but also his own core group denies him.  Unfortunately, this is also true in the ministry. Jesus said back in 10:24, “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a slave above his master.” That is, if the teacher or master had his followers turn on him, his own disciples would also share a similar fate.

IV. Meekness is not weakness (vv. 12-17).

Matthew wants his readers to know that being meek or gentle and showing righteous anger are not mutually exclusive.

For Jews, the temple meant everything. It is the center of their religious system. It is the place of sacred worship, sacrifice, and offering. So, for Jesus to “cleanse the temple” is simply too unthinkable.

What Matthew wants us to see is that Jesus is staking his claim in the most sacred, revered, and central place of their religious system. This is a clear message that Jesus acted as one who had the authority. It is to show that he can do what he did.

From this side of the cross, the New Covenant message is that now, Jesus Christ is the most holy one, who needs to be revered and is the center of worship. Also, unlike the old covenant worship, now, if you want to come to God, you must go through Jesus. I say this because back in 12:6, Jesus referring to himself said, “But I say to you that something greater than the temple is here.”

Let me tell you why Jesus was so angry and prompted to cleanse the temple. In his day, if you were to bring your own animal for sacrifice, the temple officials would inspect it, and more likely would tell you that your sacrifice is no good. They would find some blemish on your animal, so they would insist that you need to buy their approved sacrifice. And usually, a person would often pay as much as ten times what an animal normally cost. And if that’s not bad enough, if you had to have foreign currency exchanged or did not have exact money, you were charged twenty-five percent fee. That’s what extortion means! And almost always, the victims are the poor, helpless, and the weak.

Even after the establishment of Christianity, there have been many people who wield similar religious abuses. In fact, that is what prompted Martin Luther to launch the Protestant Reformation to fight against selling of indulgences, the supposed buying of God’s grace and mercy for money.

The reformation is not over. Today, Christians should also cry out as Luther did for Christ to cleanse the church from much defilement, especially, making merchandise of the gospel, which is not a gospel but a false gospel.

^NAU 1 Peter 4:17 For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

All that is to say, to be humble and gentle does not mean you act cowardly when the glory of God is at stake. As Jesus demonstrates meekness is not weakness.

V. What you show (or the lack of) determines your true identity (vv. 18-22).

In the Bible fruit is generally understood as evidence of spiritual conversion. But this tree is a deceptive tree. It has leaves. It has outward appearance of life, but there is no fruit.

This tree represents the people of Israel at the time of Jesus. They seemed to be religious outwardly with all temple worships, traditions, the Scriptures, and zeal, but they had no fruit. Many commentators see the pronouncement of Jesus in verse 19 as a prophetic curse upon the nation of Israel.

^NAU Matthew 13:12 “For whoever has, to him more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has shall be taken away from him.

The point of the lesson here is faith. Not faith without fruit, but faith with fruit.

^NAU James 2:18 ¶ But someone may well say, “You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”

Also, the point of the lesson is not only about faith, but also about responsibility. Like the nation of Israel, the church has been given much. We are the stewards for the treasures of the gospel. Like the people of Israel, much is given and much is required of the church of Jesus Christ. What a sobering reality! One commentator writes, “We should understand this story as an acted parable: the fig tree in leaf gave promise of fruit but produced none. The result was that it was accursed. Those who profess to be God’s people but live unfruitful lives are warned.”[2]

VI. The ones who have problem with the authority are always self-righteous (vv. 23-46).

To say it another way, the proud and self-righteous people are always the ones who have problem with the authority.

Lord’s Day Worship Service

January 2, 2011 – 9:30 AM

Rev. Jim Kang, Pastor-Teacher

Announcements (A Special Sovereign Grace Video)

Call to Worship (Responsive Reading)……………………. Psalm 119:81-88

Prayer ……………………………………………………………Mr. Scott Schultz

Songs/Hymns of Praise

• Holy, Holy, Holy
• Speak, O Lord

Scripture Reading …………………………………………… Matthew 21:1-46      

Sermon** ……………………………………………………….. Rev. Jim Kang

THE ENTRANCE OF THE KING

Matthew 21:1-46

Song/Hymn of Praise

• I Will Glory In My Redeemer

Prayer …………………………………………………………. Mr. Jason Bosch

Benediction

• 1 Timothy 6:13-16

**This sermon can be heard again or download at www.sovereigngracebiblechurch.org. You can also read its transcript at www.sgbc.wordpress.com.

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Your responsibility, by God’s enabling, is to constantly apply the divine truths you have heard (Philippians 2:12-13; 1 Timothy 4:7-9; James 1:22-27). As you meditate on this message, ask yourself these questions:

• How does God want my beliefs/actions to change?
• How can I accomplish this change?
• What is the first step toward bringing about this change?

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome to worship service of Sovereign Grace Bible Church. We’re glad that you can join us in worshipping our Sovereign Creator and Redeemer. If you are visiting us for the first time, we ask that you would please fill out the visitor card and place it in the offering basket. Thank you.

Watch a special Sovereign Grace video during the announcement time.

Nursery Volunteers for Today: Mary & Gracie. Next Lord’s Day (1/9): Sherri & Grace.

Monthly Leadership Meeting: Monday, January 3^rd @ 7 pm.

Keloland Closeline – If you are uncertain about whether we’ll have church due to weather, please call our church number or check our church’s website or Keloland Closeline at http://www.keloland.com/weather/Closeline.cfm.

Dordt College Concert Choir will be performing on the 10^th @ First Christian Reformed Church in Sioux Falls @ 7 pm.

Weekly Prayer Requests – Please email them to Pastor Kang by no later than Tuesday afternoon.

Member(s) absent this weekend: Corinne.

Tell & Invite – Tell a friend and/or invite a friend to our Lord’s Day service and/or one of our midweek fellowship groups.

Birthdays/Anniversaries for January:

• n/a

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PASTOR’S PEN

May the Lord grant you on this New Year sound mind, good health, prosperity, perseverance, and much thanksgiving as you joyfully face various events that he sovereignly has ordained.

Rev. Jim Kang

Sovereign Grace Bible Church

Jim Kang, Pastor-Teacher

FOUR REASONS WHY JESUS CAME

Matthew 20:17-34

INTRODUCTION

I’m certain that by now you had enough time to hear all sorts of opinions as to what Christmas is all about. And if you’re like me, you tend to be a lot more forgiving to hear the opinions of non-Christians than it is with professing Christians. In other words, if professing Christians talk and act like those in darkness about what Christmas is, I think that’s simply embarrassing.

Although there is nothing wrong with getting together with family, friends, getting or giving presents, none of that really has to do with what Christmas means. In my observation, many professing Christians can give a Sunday school like-answer to what Christmas is, but often attitude and actions show otherwise. We all need to keep in mind that we do not define what Christmas is; only God does and he already did in Scripture.

Just as Christians do not take only one day to ponder on thanksgiving, we also do not take only one day to ponder on the incarnation of Jesus. This is because if you’re at a church where the gospel is biblically and regularly explained and preached, you’ll know that incarnation is important part of God’s redemptive story. That is, incarnation is part of God’s redemptive story, but it is not the whole story. To say it another way, Christmas is part of the gospel, but it is not the whole gospel. In other words, God’s redemptive story does not begin with the story of Christmas in the NT, but goes way back to the OT. I believe this is what so many people fail to recognize or remember.

Moreover, Christmas is more than the event of Christ’s incarnation, but also his purpose and mission. That is, he came here to do something. And that is a critical piece of Christmas. It is incarnation of Christ plus his purpose. So, on this day after Christmas, I want to draw your attention to what Matthew says about why Jesus came, his purpose, his mission. I see here four reasons: to suffer, to save, to serve, and to sympathize.

I. Jesus came to suffer (vv. 17-19).

This is fourth time in which Matthew records the statement of Jesus about his death (16:21; 17:12, 22-23). I believe Matthew records Jesus mentioning of his own death several times to point out that the suffering and death of Jesus was not some surprising freak incident. Rather, his suffering and death is to fulfill what was prophesied of him in the OT. Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, “Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill” (Matthew 5:17). In John 5:39 Jesus said, “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me.” All that is to say, Jesus suffered the sufferings that have been already ordained and prophesied through the previous scriptures.

Let me give you second reason, which is directly linked to suffering.

II. Jesus came to save (vv. 17-19).

I want you to know that there is direct correlation between suffering and salvation. That is, there is no salvation without suffering.

Just a way of observation, notice Jerusalem is mentioned twice here. Why Jerusalem? This is where Jesus would die. But why Jerusalem? Why not Galilee, Bethlehem, or other places?

You need to know this answer. Jerusalem was the focal point of Jewish worship. Here Matthew wants his readers to make the connection between Jerusalem, the focal point of Jewish worship and Jesus. Because of the death and resurrection of Jesus, people are no longer limited to Jerusalem for worship. Do you recall the dialogue between Jesus and the Samaritan woman in John 4?

^NAU John 4:21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, an hour is coming when neither in this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. ²² “You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. ²³ “But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. ²⁴ “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

In his death, Jesus met all the propitiatory demands of God for sacrifice, worship, and salvation, which by the way are not mutually exclusive. You cannot and you do not truly worship without sacrifice. You cannot worship without blood. You cannot worship without atonement or payment for sin. You cannot worship without death of the living. With the suffering, the death, and the resurrection of Jesus Christ, he fulfilled all the propitiatory demands to save his elect, so that his elect would worship him forever.

The problem with us is that we want to worship without self-sacrifice and dying to self. Jesus came and died so that you could worship and your worship could be acceptable in spite of you.

Earlier I said there is direct correlation between suffering and salvation. I would also like for you to know that there is direct correlation between suffering, sacrifice, salvation, and worship.

• ^NAU Luke 9:56 for the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them.”

• ^NAU Luke 19:10 “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

III. Jesus came to serve (vv. 20-28).

The “right hand” and “left hand” (v. 21) speaks of proximity to the King and speaks of having power, prestige, and position.

“We are able” (v. 22) – without hesitation, without understanding, and without seeking clarification of exactly what the “cup” means.

It is simply too dumbfounding to see what is going on with the disciples of Jesus in midst of what he just announced to them. Talk about being insensitive. Talk about being rude, foolish, vain, ignorant, and plain stupid. I’m not sure if we would have done it better.

What Jesus said did come to reality (v. 23). James would later become the first apostolic martyr (Acts 12:2), John would suffer exile (Revelation 1:9), and tradition tells of Peter who later become crucified upside down.

This unbelievable scene is so much like what’s going on inside the church. That is, people fighting for power, position, and prestige, but not focusing on Christ. Like these disciples, what so many people forget is that the Kingdom of God is not like the way of this world. Thus, from verse 24 to 28 Jesus explains how the Kingdom of God is different.

Now, when people would read those passages, some may walk away with some twisted interpretation like ruling or exercising authority in the church is bad. In fact, usually people with strong display of leadership would often get a cheap shot of criticism or questioning of their humility with a passage like this. So, let me help you from making similar errors in making bad interpretation or making wrong assessment.

First of all, is Jesus saying that ruling or exercising authority is bad? Also, how does that square with rest of the Scripture by using the principle of analogy of faith?

The simple answer is that there is no discrepancy or inconsistency between what Jesus said and what the rest of Scripture says about ruling or exercising authority and that somehow it is viewed as something bad. For instance, back in 10:1, Matthew records that Jesus gave his disciples the authority over unclean spirits. What about 1 Timothy 5:17 about the elders who rule well? What about what Paul commands to Titus in 2:15, “These things speak and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no one disregard you”?

Here Jesus is not saying that it is wrong or bad to rule or exercise authority. The difference that Jesus is pointing out between the pagan rulers and his disciples is on how. That is, the manner and the motive in which his disciples should rule. And the way he is teaching this particular point is by using his own self as the example, namely “just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many” (v. 28). This is the particular point that Paul later echoes in his letter to Philippians (cf. 2:1-11). Hence, what drives the manner and the motive of my spiritual service has to be humility, namely humility that is exemplified by Christ himself in Philippians 2.

There is also important theological implication here in verse 28 by Jesus. The fact that Jesus gave his life for many (not all or everyone as in Universalist sense) does reveal that his atonement was particular redemption, namely for his elect, the church. The Bible says, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself up for her” (Ephesians 5:25). All that is to say, the way Jesus served his church with humility is through his sacrificial and substitutionary death. Christ died for the church. In other words, his love was exclusive and particular only for the church.

IV. Jesus came to sympathize (vv. 29-34).

He came to show sympathy to those who are generally weak, sick, helpless, and hopeless. This is what Matthew calls in verse 34 “moved with compassion.”

We don’t ever read that Jesus had compassion for the Pharisees or for other religious leaders, but often people who are oppressed or mistreated by those religious leaders. In Mark 6:34 it is told that Jesus had compassion for many who followed him because they were like sheep without a shepherd. Technically, the religious leaders were suppose to function as shepherds, so when Jesus said the people were like sheep without a shepherd was really an indictment against the religious leaders of his day.

So What?

Are there implications and applications here? If so where?

Here the applications are easy and natural because they simply flow from the text. All we do is to turn these four indicatives into imperatives. For instance, first, because Jesus suffered, don’t be surprised if his followers will also suffer.

• ^NAU John 15:20 “Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

• ^NAU 2 Timothy 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.

• ^NAU James 1:2 ¶ Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, ³ knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. ⁴ And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

As I mentioned already, understand that suffering and salvation go together.

Second, understand that there is connection between salvation, sacrifice, and worship. Jesus came to redeem his church by his ultimate sacrifice so that his church would worship him.

^NAU Romans 12:1 ¶ Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. ² And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Third, because Jesus served with humility, his follower must also serve with humility. In what ways are you serving Sovereign Grace Bible Church?

Fourth, because Jesus had compassion for the weak, sick, poor, and helpless, his followers must have compassion also, especially, for those in the household of faith. That is why in the coming weeks, we’re going to pray intentionally as a church corporately and individually for churches around the world.

Lord’s Day Worship Service (with Communion)

December 26, 2010 – 9:30 AM

Rev. Jim Kang, Pastor-Teacher

Announcements

Call to Worship (Responsive Reading)…………………………..  Isaiah 9:2-7

Prayer ………………………………………………………….. Mr. Jim Tarpley

Songs/Hymns of Praise

• Joy To The World!
• Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Scripture Reading …………………………………………. Matthew 20:17-34

Sermon** ……………………………………………………….. Rev. Jim Kang

FOUR REASONS WHY JESUS CAME

Matthew 20:17-34

Song/Hymn of Praise

• O Come, All Ye Faithful

Prayer ………………………………………………………… Mr. Jason Bosch

Communion

• When I Survey The Wondrous Cross

Benediction

• 1 Timothy 1:17

**This sermon can be heard again or download at www.sovereigngracebiblechurch.org. You can also read its transcript at www.sgbc.wordpress.com.

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Your responsibility, by God’s enabling, is to constantly apply the divine truths you have heard (Philippians 2:12-13; 1 Timothy 4:7-9; James 1:22-27). As you meditate on this message, ask yourself these questions:

• How does God want my beliefs/actions to change?
• How can I accomplish this change?
• What is the first step toward bringing about this change?

************************************************************************************************

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome to worship service of Sovereign Grace Bible Church. We’re glad that you can join us in worshipping our Sovereign Creator and Redeemer. If you are visiting us for the first time, we ask that you would please fill out the visitor card and place it in the offering basket. Thank you.

Nursery Volunteers for Today: Judy & Torrie Next Lord’s Day (1/2): Mary & Gracie.

Keloland Closeline – If you are uncertain about whether we’ll have church due to weather, please call our church number or check our church’s website or Keloland Closeline at http://www.keloland.com/weather/Closeline.cfm.

Recommend Reading: What He Must Be…If He Wants to Marry My Daughter (Wheaton: Crossway, 2009) by Voddie Baucham. This book is for everyone (singles, married, and parents, especially, for dads).

Member(s) absent this weekend: Holthauses and Corinne.

Tell & Invite – Tell a friend and/or invite a friend to our Lord’s Day service and/or one of our midweek fellowship groups.

Birthdays/Anniversaries for December:

• Emily’s birthday (12/8)
• Mary’s birthday (12/10)
• Holthauses anniverary (12/12)
• Jim & Eunah’s birthday (12/14)

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PASTOR’S PEN

Like the curtains that come down at end of a play, we are quickly approaching end of the year. As a church, we shared many laughs and joyous occasions this year. We also shared heartaches and tears of pain. But at the end, we thank the Lord, who works all things for his glory and for our good.

I want to thank you for being a wonderful church. Let us strive together to be more faithful and fruitful in the coming year. Happy New Year!

Rev. Jim Kang

Sovereign Grace Bible Church

Jim Kang

PARABLE OF THE WORKERS IN THE VINEYARD

Matthew 20:1-16

INTRODUCTION

In this parable there are three major theological truths about God, namely 1) God’s grace, 2) God’s sovereignty, and 3) God’s goodness. But before I get to that, you need to first know how you should understand this parable in light of its context. And the answer to how is found grammatically and theologically.

Grammatically, this parable is directly connected to the previous section, namely 19:27-30. The clue is given in how the text begins, namely with the conjunction “for.” So, this parable does not stand by itself, but actually serves to illustrate what Jesus said as a response to Peter’s question back in 19:27.

Again, the purpose of this parable is to illustrate or accentuate what Jesus just said in the previous section. Just as a good sermon needs a good illustration to drive home the main point, this is the case in point. As a master-teacher and preacher, Jesus is about to drive home the main point of his message with this parable. As you know, a parable is an earthly illustration to teach a spiritual lesson, so we are about to come face to face with the main point of this message and how such point gets illustrated by our Lord Jesus.

However, theologically the context extends beyond the previous section and it is connected to the conversation between Jesus and the rich young ruler had as we shall see shortly from this parable. As I already mentioned in this parable there are three major theological truths about God, namely 1) God’s grace, 2) God’s sovereignty, and 3) God’s goodness. If you can keep those three themes in mind, you will better understand what Jesus is teaching here. With that in mind, let me point out three subordinate lessons from those three major theological themes.

1. Do not think in terms of the entitlements or rights in the kingdom of God. Instead, think everything in terms of grace.

That’s the difference between those who are kingdom citizens and those who are not. However, even the kingdom citizens fail to recognize this truth time to time. In this parable such attitude is clearly shown, such as, in verse 10 – “they thought that they would receive more.” But the landowner never said that he would pay them more, but that he had agreed for one denarius for the day (v. 2).

So, why did they think like that? Just like you learned from Matthew 19 regarding the rich young ruler, these workers also operated under a faulty premise, namely that if they do something right, then they think they are entitled to get something in return.

Not only such notion is ethically challenging and debatable, but religiously, this type of work-based righteousness is even more dangerous. As Leon Morris points out in his commentary, “There is a tendency in the human race to think of salvation in legal terms.”[1] And the faulty premise goes something like this:

• I’ve been a good boy all this week, thus…
• I’ve prayed everyday this week, thus…
• I’ve read my Bible everyday this week, thus…
• I did not say any bad words this week, thus…
• I’ve fasted twice a week, and given all my goods to the poor.
• What good thing shall I do that I may obtain eternal life?
• Since I have kept all these things what am I still lacking? Sound familiar?

In the previous chapter I pointed out that there are three hindrances to obtain eternal life, which are false religious premise, pride, and worldly possessions. From that chapter we learned about the impossibility of obtaining eternal life by man’s self effort, religion, or works. We learned that biblical Christianity teaches that what is impossible for man God can make it possible. Hence, the Christian view of salvation is not self-effort, self-help, or self-entitlement, as in I did some good, so I am entitled or deserve something in return, especially, from God.

However, salvation is always a work of God’s grace. This is not only true in our justification, but also in our sanctification. And if it is grace, then let all those thoughts and talks perish!

In the kingdom of God, you do not think or talk in terms of what you earned, what you deserve, or in terms of your rights. Rather, you think and talk in terms of God’s grace. Martyn Lloyd-Jones said, “O Christian friend, do not make bargains with God. If you do, you will only get what you bargained for, but if you leave it to His grace, you will probably get more than you ever thought of.”

2. Don’t complain. Instead, believe that God is sovereign in how he rewards his servants.

This is one of the strongest theological points in this parable, notably, from verse 15 – “Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with what is my own?”

The point is God is under no obligation to answer to any man for what he does with what belongs to him. This is perhaps one of the best biblical illustrations for the sovereignty of God. Although there are many aspects of how God is sovereign, here it is shown in how he rewards his servants. The point is if God wants to give the same reward to those who worked fewer hours than the one who worked the most, then God is not unfair. Rather, he is perfectly just and sovereign to do so.

And what happens when people miss this critical point? Verse 11 happens! That is, people grumble, murmur, or complain.

The verb they grumbled in verse 11 is in the imperfect active indicative, which indicates a continuing process, which means their grumbling or complaining went on and on. And this is a significant point of the lesson.

Does the Bible say anything about grumbling or complaining? If so, what does the Bible say about grumbling or complaining? Generally, the results are not good. Either the people get killed off, destroyed, judged, or that they are made examples for all to see. That is especially true throughout the OT. But what about in the NT? Does anything change? (cf. Philippians 2:14-16).

Do you know why it is so wrong to habitually complain as God’s people? Do you realize that to do so is ultimately to sin against the providence of God and the sovereignty of God? It is like saying, “God, you don’t really have the best interest for me. God, I don’t think you know what you’re doing.” In essence, complaining is to question the very nature of God. It is like saying, “God, you’re not really God. You’re not all-powerful, you’re not all-mighty, and you’re not all-knowing.” It is offensive to God because it is an affront to who he is. That is why in the OT we see so many of the people of Israel get killed off, destroyed, judged, or made examples for all to see because that is not how the people of God behave. Rather than complaining, the people of God who recognize God’s redemption ought to be the most rejoicing and thanksgiving people. So, please keep in mind that complaining is to sin against God’s providence and God’s sovereignty. Knowing the gospel should make the person to be most content, not complaining.

So, if you understand that God is sovereign in how he rewards his servants, there is no jealousy, envying, murmuring, or showing discontentment. Here’s a case in point: verse 12. Verse 12 is very telling, especially, the phrase “You have made them equal to us.” Notice their complaint wasn’t “You have made us equal to them” but “You have made them equal to us.”

The difference between the two is hugely significant in its interpretation. If the former statement (i.e., “You have made us equal to them”) was their complaint, then the issue would have been the unfairness of pay in how the people who worked long would get the same credit as if they worked less.

But that is not what they said. Instead, they said, “You have made them equal to us.” Their issue was with the generosity shown by the owner. They were jealous in how the other party’s pay was equal to them.

This is what I call having the Jonah’s complex, meaning having a similar behavior and attitude that Jonah had toward Nineveh. If you’re familiar with that OT story, you know that Jonah had a problem with God at the end of the story because God did not give the pagans what they deserved, but instead, granted the gift of repentance and forgiveness (Jonah 3:1-4:4). Jesus is that God in the book of Jonah, who is merciful and compassionate.

Do you have a problem of God’s generosity shown to others? Since all of you can quickly answer with no, let me rephrase the question. Do you have a problem when new or young people advance faster than you? Not only is this question relevant at your work, school, or in sports team, but it is also relevant in the church. How would you react when a latecomer gets installed as a leader in the church when you didn’t get the position you were hoping for even though you’ve been in the church a lot longer or that you’ve worked more than that individual? Would you genuinely be happy for him, or would you become bitter, complaining, and crying out “That’s not fair. I’ve been here longer.”

3. Don’t think that God is unfair. Instead, believe that you’re getting beyond what you really deserve.

Verse 13 is simply too wonderful – “Friend, I am doing you no wrong.” You can take that to the bank! This is God’s assurance. God will never do anything wrong to you.

• ^NAU Psalm 25:8 Good and upright is the LORD.

• ^NAU Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD is good; How blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!

• ^NAU Psalm 100:5 For the LORD is good; His lovingkindness is everlasting And His faithfulness to all generations.

• ^NAU Romans 8:28 ¶ And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.

According to Thomas Manton, the 17^th century Puritan preacher said:

He is originally good, good of Himself, which nothing else is; for all creatures are good only by participation and communication from God. He is essentially good; not only good, but goodness itself: the creature’s good is a superadded quality, in God it is His essence. He is infinitely good; the creature’s good is but a drop, but in God there is an infinite ocean or gathering together of good. He is eternally and immutably good, for He cannot be less good than He is; as there can be no addition made to Him, so no subtraction from Him.[2]

Martin Luther understood this aspect of God’s goodness when he said, “If God told me to eat the dung from off the streets, not only would I eat it, but I would know it was good for me.”[3]

CONCLUSION

In this parable I hope you can see the three major theological truths about God, which are God’s grace, God’s sovereignty, and God’s goodness.

Encompassing the OT meaning of what God speaks, especially through prophetic spokespersons, the Christian meaning refers first to God’s self-revelation in Jesus Christ as the Word (e.g., Jn 1:1). It also refers to the proclamation of the gospel of Christ and by extension to the Scriptures that testify to the truth of Christ.

Lord’s Day Worship Service

December 19, 2010 – 9:30 AM

Rev. Jim Kang, Pastor-Teacher

Announcements (Special Video)

Call to Worship (Responsive Reading)……………………  Psalm 119:89-96

Prayer ………………………………………………………….. Mr. Jason Bosch

Songs/Hymns of Praise

• O Come, O Come Emmanuel
• What Child Is This?

Scripture Reading …………………………………………… Matthew 20:1-16      

Sermon** ……………………………………………………….. Rev. Jim Kang

PARABLE OF THE WORKERS IN THE VINEYARD

Matthew 20:1-16

Song/Hymn of Praise

• Grace Greater Than Our Sin

Prayer ………………………………………………………… Mr. Scott Schultz

Benediction

• 1 Timothy 1:17

**This sermon can be heard again or download at www.sovereigngracebiblechurch.org. You can also read its transcript at www.sgbc.wordpress.com.

**************************************************************************************

Your responsibility, by God’s enabling, is to constantly apply the divine truths you have heard (Philippians 2:12-13; 1 Timothy 4:7-9; James 1:22-27). As you meditate on this message, ask yourself these questions:

• How does God want my beliefs/actions to change?
• How can I accomplish this change?
• What is the first step toward bringing about this change?

************************************************************************************************

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome to worship service of Sovereign Grace Bible Church. We’re glad that you can join us in worshipping our Sovereign Creator and Redeemer. If you are visiting us for the first time, we ask that you would please fill out the visitor card and place it in the offering basket. Thank you.

Nursery Volunteers for Today: Emily & Paige. Next Lord’s Day (12/19): Judy & Torrie.

Praying for Persecuted Christians – watch the video presentation during the announcement.

Corporate Flock Meeting this Wednesday night to celebrate Christmas @ Mary’s in Luverne, MN @ 7 PM.

Our Last Communion for the Year will be served during the morning’s worship service on Christmas Sunday, December 26^th. This is for those who have been baptized as believers and hold good membership standing at a local church. If you have any question, please see Pastor Kang. Also, join us for potluck lunch & fellowship on Sunday, December 26^th.

Keloland Closeline – If you are uncertain about whether we’ll have church due to weather, please call our church number or check our church’s website or Keloland Closeline at http://www.keloland.com/weather/Closeline.cfm.

Recommend Reading: What He Must Be…If He Wants to Marry My Daughter (Wheaton: Crossway, 2009) by Voddie Baucham. This book is for everyone (singles, married, and parents, especially, for dads).

Tell & Invite – Tell a friend and/or invite a friend to our Lord’s Day service and/or one of our midweek fellowship groups.

Birthdays/Anniversaries for December:

• Emily’s birthday (12/8)
• Mary’s birthday (12/10)
• Holthauses anniverary (12/12)
• Jim & Eunah’s birthday (12/14)

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THEOLOGICAL WORD OF THE WEEK (#47 & Final)

Word of God.

Due to limited space here, please visit our church’s blog (sgbc.wordpress.com) for its definition.

Sovereign Grace Bible Church

Jim Kang, Pastor-Teacher

THE INFINITE WORTH OF TREASURING GOD

Haggai 1

INTRODUCTION

To treasure the glory of God is infinitely more important than your earthly treasure. That is the central message here. But let me briefly explain how that is.

God had warned the people of Israel what would happen if they persisted in disobedience. Even after a myriad of warnings they chose to rebel. As a result, God allowed the pagans to invade and destroy their land, and forced thousands of Israelites as slaves to their captor’s land. After years have gone by, God allowed the people of Israel to return to their land.

When the people returned to their desolated and ruined land, they began to rebuild their city and their homes. However, the problem was not restoration, but restoration at the expense of neglecting God’s interests. They were consumed with their own selfish interests and concerned more about building their own treasures. Hence, God stepped in through Haggai the prophet to call for their repentance from self-focused to God-focused life. Thus, the central message here is: to treasure the glory of God is infinitely more important than your earthly treasure.

This chapter is largely divided into two parts: God’s rebuke for their disobedience (vv. 1-11) and God’s remnant responds and rebuilds (vv. 12-15). From this chapter, I would like to point out seven particular lessons about God.

1. God’s word comes even in midst of God’s judgment (v. 1).

“In the second year of Darius the king, on the first day of the sixth month.” The fact that this chapter begins with the historical fact is a reminder to all of what happens when the people of God disobey. The people of Israel were in this predicament because they disregarded God’s call to repentance and disobeyed him. They reaped what they sowed. The discipline of God is never pleasant.

However, even in the midst of this disciplinary time God demonstrated his kindness and mercy by sending “the word of the LORD.” And he did that through Haggai, his prophet. This leads to our second point.

2. God has no insignificant minister or ministry (v. 1b).

“The word of the LORD came by the prophet Haggai.” Compare to other prophetic books like Isaiah or Jeremiah, Haggai is not a popular prophetic book that preachers often quote or preach. Hence, Haggai is not the most popular prophet.

However, God does not always use popular prophets or preachers. Although the book of Haggai is second shortest book in the Old Testament (after Obadiah), he is not considered insignificant. Nor, is this book unimportant. It is because:

^NAU 2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; ¹⁷ so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.

Obviously, God did not think Haggai was insignificant since this is part of the canon of Scripture.

Having said that, it is important to keep in mind that God’s ministers are not chosen based on how great and important they are. Rather, opposite is true.

^NAU 1 Corinthians 1:26 ¶ For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; ²⁷ but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong, ²⁸ and the base things of the world and the despised God has chosen, the things that are not, so that He may nullify the things that are, ²⁹ so that no man may boast before God.

All that is to say, God’s choice of his servants are based on his sovereign purpose. That is, God raises a particular man for a particular place, for a particular people, for a particular purpose, and for a particular time. Hence, God has no insignificant ministers or ministries.

^NAU 1 Corinthians 15:58 ¶ Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.

3. God disciplines his people with a reason (vv. 2-4).

To say it negatively, God does not discipline you with no reason. He always has his reason and purpose. For instance, Scripture says it is because he loves you.

^NAS Hebrews 12:6 For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He scourges every son whom He receives.”

Another possible reason is for your sanctification.

• ^NAU Deuteronomy 8:5 “Thus you are to know in your heart that the LORD your God was disciplining you just as a man disciplines his son.

• ^NAU Hebrews 12:10 For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness.

Hence, God is not unreasonable when he disciplines you. This is also true in this text with the people of Israel. It is obvious from the text that God is not happy. For instance, notice God no longer calls the people “My people,” but “This people” in verse 2. Clearly, this is God’s rebuke since they did not act like his people.

The primary reason for God’s displeasure was due to their indifference toward God. Dr. Charles Feinberg rightly points out that the issue was not that they were against the building project, but that it was not the right time or the convenient time for them.[1] He further notes:

To the dilatory (slow, lazy, dragging) plea of the people, the Lord makes reply by the prophet, asking whether the hour was suitable for them to dwell in their ceiled houses while the Lord’s Temple lay waste. Their selfishness, indifference, and ingratitude are laid bare at once by the inquiry. They were moved only by selfish interests in all that they did. Ceiled houses indicate homes that were paneled, luxuriously fitted, not confined to the ceiling, but including the walls also, an overlaying with boards or panels. Wainscoting with cedar was common in the residences of the king.[2]

In essence, they were giving God the leftovers. They were busy building their own houses and putting God’s house aside. They were treasuring their own lives more than treasuring God.

Whenever there is disciplinary or judgment act by God throughout the Scripture, he always seems to give his reason. At one sense, this is to demonstrate God’s justice. That is, he is not unreasonable in dealing with sin and sinners.

At another sense, this is also a demonstration of God’s mercy because of the fact that he does not wipe out all sinners from the face of the earth when it is perfectly just to do so!

4. God always warns the consequence of sin (vv. 6, 9-11).

“You have sown much, but harvest little; you eat, but there is not enough to be satisfied; you drink, but there is not enough to become drunk; you put on clothing, but no one is warm enough; and he who earns, earns wages to put into a purse with holes…You look for much, but behold, it comes to little…”

As one commentator suggests that the implication here is strong that these economic conditions were divine chastening for their disobedience.[3]

For the believers of the new covenant this is nothing new (cf. Galatians 5:16-26; 6:6-10).

5. God demands repentance for reconciliation (vv. 5, 7-8).

Twice God commands “Consider your ways!” (vv. 5 and 7). In essence, this is a call to self-judgment.[4] The Bible teaches that if we examined ourselves, we would not be judged (1 Cor. 11:31). But such self-examination does not lead to self-exaltation. If so, then you have failed to truly examine yourself. Rather, a genuine self-examination leads to self-realization that he needs help. And genuine self-realization leads to genuine self-confrontation, which is a start of repentance.

Also, God gives three commands in verse 8: go up, bring, and rebuild. And his reason for such demand is so that “I may be pleased with it and be glorified.” This answers the question why. You don’t need to know extensive or detailed reasons. You obey so that God is pleased and glorified. For God’s people, that is enough. In fact, that is the reason for our existence and obedience. In other words, what is the chief end of man? Man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever.

All that is to say, repentance is not merely having a good intention. God is not honored by good intention, but good action. Hell is full of people with good intention. Simply having good intention is not enough. As the text shows people may have good intention, but that does not mean they have genuinely repented. True repentance is intentional, visible and noticeable. Hence, God demands for them to “Go up to the mountains, bring wood and rebuild the temple.”

6. God views obedience and reverence as a demonstration of genuine repentance (v. 12).

As a result of God’s call to repentance, the people “obeyed the voice of the LORD their God and the words of Haggai the prophet, as the LORD their God had sent him. And the people showed reverence for the LORD.”

7. God grants his assurance and promise of his presence as a result of the people’s genuine repentance (v. 13).

“I am with you, declares the LORD.” What a comforting word! What assurance!

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!

O what a foretaste of glory divine!

Heir of salvation, purchase of God,

Born of His Spirit, washed in His blood.

Conclusion

It is important to note that rebuilding the temple is not the primary point here. What is important is to remember is what the temple represents. Here in the OT, the temple represents God’s dwelling place, which manifest his presence with his covenant people.

However, when the temple was destroyed it symbolized the departure of God’s glory. So, for Haggai the prophet, the rebuilding of the temple signified the return of God’s glory and his presence. Hence, the central message here is: to treasure the glory of God is infinitely more important than your earthly treasure!

I am thankful that Jesus made the same promise to his disciples.

^NAU Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. ¹⁹ “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

His command for his followers hasn’t changed. We need to go into all the nations and declare to all peoples that to treasure the glory of God is infinitely more important than your earthly treasure! And that is what evangelism is – telling people that God is infinitely more important than anything!

Lord’s Day Worship Service

December 5, 2010 – 9:30 AM

Rev. Jim Kang, Pastor-Teacher

Announcements

Call to Worship (Responsive Reading)…………………  Psalm 119:97-104

Prayer ……………………………………………………… Mr. Stuart Leuthold

Song/Hymn of Praise

• I Love The Church
• Every Promise Of Your Word

Scripture Reading …………………………………………………… Haggai 1      

Sermon** ……………………………………………………….. Rev. Jim Kang

THE INFINITE WORTH OF TREASURING GOD

Haggai 1

Song/Hymn of Praise

• Receive The Glory

Prayer ……………………………………………………….. Mr. Todd Holthaus

Benediction

• 1 Timothy 1:17

**This sermon can be heard again or download at www.sovereigngracebiblechurch.org. You can also read its transcript at www.sgbc.wordpress.com.

**************************************************************************************

Your responsibility, by God’s enabling, is to constantly apply the divine truths you have heard (Philippians 2:12-13; 1 Timothy 4:7-9; James 1:22-27). As you meditate on this message, ask yourself these questions:

• How does God want my beliefs/actions to change?
• How can I accomplish this change?
• What is the first step toward bringing about this change?

************************************************************************************************

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Welcome to worship service of Sovereign Grace Bible Church. We’re glad that you can join us in worshipping our Sovereign Creator and Redeemer. If you are visiting us for the first time, we ask that you would please fill out the visitor card and place it in the offering basket. Thank you.

Nursery Volunteers for Today: Rochelle and Grace. Next Lord’s Day (12/12): Jodi and Corinne.

Leadership Meeting tomorrow night @ 7 pm.

Communion will be served during the morning’s worship service on Christmas Sunday, December 19^th. This is for those who have been baptized as believers and hold good membership standing at a local church. If you have any question, please see Pastor Kang.

Join us for potluck lunch & fellowship on Sunday, December 26^th.

Book Table is available for you to purchase some sound books. Please check it out before or after the service.

Recommend Reading: What He Must Be…If He Wants to Marry My Daughter (Wheaton: Crossway, 2009) by Voddie Baucham. This book is for everyone (singles, married, and parents, especially, for dads).

Member(s) out of town this weekend: Rochelle Leuthold in North Carolina.

Tell & Invite – Tell a friend and/or invite a friend to our Lord’s Day service and/or one of our midweek fellowship groups.

Birthdays/Anniversaries for December:

• Emily’s birthday (12/8)
• Mary’s birthday (12/10)
• Holthauses anniverary (12/12)
• Jim & Eunah’s birthday (12/14)

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THEOLOGICAL WORD OF THE WEEK (#46)

worship.

Due to limited space here, please visit our church’s blog (sgbc.wordpress.com) for its definition.