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In the construction world, a "sole plate" is a small but integral piece of wood that sits on top of a foundation. Without it, you simply couldn’t build the floors or walls above. Guest teacher Aaron Pierce uses this illustration to reveal a vital, foundational step we often miss when sharing our faith. Discover how this principle helps us connect our lost friends to the anchoring hope of the Gospel.

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Guest Speaker Bio

Aaron Pierce is the International Mission Director of Steiger International, a rapidly-growing, worldwide mission organization that is called to reach and disciple the Global Youth Culture for Jesus. Steiger is active in over 100 cities around the world within the regions of Europe, Eurasia, Central Asia, the Middle East, East Asia, South America, Australasia, and North America.

Sermon Overview
Scripture Passage: Matthew 20:1-15

Fairness is a wonderful human attribute we learn about when we’re young and demand of each other as we grow.

In Matthew 20:1-15, Jesus shares the parable of the vineyard workers. The owner of the vineyard rises early to hire laborers, then adds hired laborers at various times throughout the day. At the end of the day, he pays his laborers all the same wages.

This may not seem “fair” in our human understanding, but we must remember that God is not fair, but He is good.

First, this passage shows us that it’s always too soon to quit, but never too late to start.

Though it is better for us to start serving God early in life, it is never too late; He calls us to the vineyard, even at the eleventh hour.

Second, if we bargain with God, we will cheat ourselves. Matthew 20:2 reveals that the early workers had haggled with the owner for more money until they finally came to an agreement. Yet, they are surprised when the owner offers the same wage to the later laborers.

Third, it is wise to let God keep the books; if we try to keep a record of our service, we run the risk of taking credit we don’t deserve.

Fourth, don’t look for fairness; ask for mercy. Fairness is based on the idea that we are owed something, but God does not owe us anything. As sinners, He deals with us on the basis of justice and mercy, and if we ask for justice, we will get exactly what we deserve. Instead, we should beg for mercy.

Finally, another’s blessing is never our own loss; just because the vineyard owner blessed the later workers doesn’t mean the early workers lacked. Likewise, when we see God bless others “more” than He blesses us, we are not losing anything.

Adrian Rogers says, “We will be much happier in this life if we take our eyes off of our brothers and sisters, put our eyes on the Lord Jesus Christ, and be grateful for what He does.”



Apply it to your life
Have you been called to the vineyard to serve our Lord Jesus Christ? It’s never too late to start. If you have served Christ for a while now, remember there is no seniority in the kingdom of God. Welcome your brothers and sisters in gratitude and rejoice in each other’s blessings.

How do you suppose your gratitude for your salvation would increase if you could see exactly what hell is like? That question may be shocking, but the answer could reinvigorate your joy in Christ like never before. Celebrate your rescue from divine judgment—and the One who saved you—as John MacArthur continues his study called Our Great Salvation.

By making a few practical changes, you can reduce stress in your life, quiet the chaos and restore your sanity. Kathi Lipp and Cheri Gregory share what being overwhelmed feels like for the four main personality types (expressive, analytic, driver, and amiable). They talk about practical ways to organize your schedule, say no, increase your capacity for joy, make time for the Sabbath and create a personal manifesto that states your values to help you make choices in the future.

Receive a copy of the "Overwhelmed" bundle and an audio download of "Practical Help for When You're Overwhelmed" for your donation of any amount! Plus, receive member-exclusive benefits when you make a recurring gift today. Your monthly support helps families thrive.

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As faithful followers of Jesus, we are called to be both salt and light in our society. But what does that look like in the midst of today’s hostility and division? Guest teacher Aaron Pierce shares how we can remain both holy and relevant, offering practical ways to connect with people who might never walk into a church.

Resources

• Message Notes
• Special Offers

Connect

• 888-333-6003
• Website
• Chip Ingram App
• Instagram
• Facebook
• YouTube

Partner With Us

• Donate Online
• 888-333-6003

Resources Mentioned in Teaching

• Dale Carnegie - "How to Win Friends and Influence People"

Guest Speaker Bio

Aaron Pierce is the International Mission Director of Steiger International, a rapidly-growing, worldwide mission organization that is called to reach and disciple the Global Youth Culture for Jesus. Steiger is active in over 100 cities around the world within the regions of Europe, Eurasia, Central Asia, the Middle East, East Asia, South America, Australasia, and North America.