Playing the Long Game (Matthew 13:18-23) // Sunday, July 12, 2020

Playing the Long Game (Matthew 13:18-23) // Sunday, July 12, 2020

#ComeSunday #WorshipBulletin: Read the scripture and download the bulletin to prepare for 10:00 am Sunday worship and Tuesday Bible studies!



Matthew 13:18-23 (New International Version)

18 “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. 20 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. 22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. 23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”


Summary:

What is God’s “end game?” for Inglewood First UMC? What is God’s “end game” for our nation and world?  This sermons series explores what it means for “God’s will to be done” and how God calls, equips and empowers us all to fulfill our purpose as the church. 

In the Parable of Sower, Jesus shows us how to play the “long game.” God sows seeds that may not take root, but plants them anyway, with hope they will bear fruit in the future. In our life’s education, we may find ourselves in a seasons where the divine lessons were taught did not take hold, but by keeping the faith, they eventually take root and bear fruit for us today and generations to come.

Reflection Questions:

  1. What is a word, phrase or image that comes to mind when you read or hear the text?
  2. What does this scripture teach you about seeds?
  3. What does God invite you to do, change or be through this passage?