Luke: The Person and Mission of Jesus / Luke 20:1-19; Isaiah 5:1-7; Nehemiah 9:26; Jeremiah 7:25-26; Jeremiah 25:4; Isaiah 29:13; Hebrews 3:1-6; Hebrews 3:7-8; Romans 5:6-11

Rejecting God's authority leads to spiritual ruin, as illustrated by the religious leaders' refusal to accept Jesus as the Messiah.  This passage challenges us to examine our own hears, urging us to embrace Jesus, the cornerstone of faith, and respond in obedience to avoid the tragic consequences of hardened hearts and rebellion.

Jesus' entry into Jerusalem was a pivotal moment that fulfilled prophecy and divided people's hearts- some rejoicing in His kingship while others, like the Pharisees, rejected His authority. This passage challenges believers to move beyond mere celebration and recognize Jesus as a King worthy of full commitment, urging them to choose between following Him wholeheartedly or rejecting Him outright. 

Jesus teaches that we are to be faithful stewards for the gifts God has given us, using them to further His Kingdom rather than hiding them in fear. Those who invest in God's work will be rewarded, while those who reject His authority will face judgment, emphasizing the importance of living by faith and expressing it through love.

God seeks and transforms us. Zacchaeus' encounter with Jesus shows that we don't change ourselves-God's love changes us. When we seek Him, He meets us, restores us, and fills us with joy and purpose.

This sermon emphasizes the importance of Biblical church membership, which is centered on a supernatural, attention-grabbing love for God and one another. It challenges the common misconception of church membership as a social club and highlights that the church is meant to reflect God's love through deep commitment, mutual care, and sacrificial love, empowered by the Holy Spirit. True church membership is a covenantal relationship, where believers support each other, model Christ-like love, and fulfill God's purpose for the church in the world. 

TGP Distinctives, Motivation