The shame of the cross

Rejected – The Messiah is Mocked (16-20)

Exposed – The Christ is Crucified (21-27)

Contaminated – The Saviour is Scorned (29-32; 1 Corinthians 1:22-24)

Following the King who was shamed

No shame in God’s eyes (Romans 8:1; 35-39; Isaiah 52:13-15; 53:3)

Enduring shame as a follower of Jesus (v15; 8:34; Romans 16:13; Hebrews 12:1-3)

1. Having a bad day?

2. Cleansing the temple – a sign that Israel is faithless (15-19)

- The purpose of the temple: A house of prayer for all nations Isaiah 56:1-8

- The reality of the temple: A den of robbers Jeremiah 7:9-11

- Successfulness with no faithfulness

3. Cursing the fig tree – a sign that Israel is fruitless (12-14, 20-22)

- The purpose of Israel: Bear fruit to reveal spiritual health and blessing Zechariah 3:10; Psalm 1; Micah 7:1-2

- The reality of Israel: A barren tree Jeremiah 7:20; 8:13

- Showiness with no fruitfulness (12-14, 20-22)

4.Pursuing authentic spirituality as the people of God (22-25)

- Faith in Jesus’ faithfulness

- A community of prayerful dependence

- A community of fruitful forgiveness

What makes for good community?

Jesus transforms people by the gospel to create communities that transform (Romans 12:1-2, 9)

Christians are people transformed by God’s mercy through Jesus (12:1-2)

Christian community transforms people to be like Jesus (12:9)

Christians are to form communities characterised by love and honour (12:10)

Christians are loved by God and so they love each other like family

Christians are accepted by God so they honour each other freely and eagerly

Embracing loving community at DPC

Begin where people are at

Be close enough to be challenged