The Ultimate Rejection (Mark 12:1-12)

14 February 2010

I.     Understanding the parable and its basic meaning.
A.     The parable describes God's history with Israel.
     1.     Owner: God.
     2.     Vineyard: Israel (chosen and established by God).
     3.     Tenant farmers: Religious leaders of Israel.
     4.     Slaves: Faithful prophets and priests of Israel.
     5.     Son: Jesus.
B.     The leaders realized Jesus was condemning them, vv. 9-12.
     1.     God was going to bring harsh judgment on them, v. 9.
     2.     They would reject the cornerstone, v. 10-11.
          a.     Well known verse about the Messiah- Psalm 118:22-23.
          b.     Cornerstone: Jesus is the source of salvation.

II.     Understanding the background of the parable.
     A.     A choice vineyard: God chose Israel, Deuteronomy 7:6-8.
          1.     They were intended to be different, set apart for God.
          2.     God chose Israel according to His wisdom.
     B.     A fruitful vineyard: genuine devotion, Deut. 30:11-18.
          1.     What God expected was not too difficult.
          2.     Israel had to make a choice.
               a.     Obey God: stay in the land and be blessed.
               b.     Disobey God: lose the land and die.
     C.     A growing vineyard: impact the world, Exodus 19:6.

III.     Understanding the meaning of the parable for today.
A.     God provides the opportunity for believers to respond.
     1.     He continuously works to draw us deeper in faith.
     2.     He offers the opportunity of changed lives.
          a.     We can choose His way or not.
          b.     His design is the ultimate for every person.
          c.     Use it or loose it.
B.     God provides the opportunity for non-believers to respond.
     1.     He makes Himself known to every person.
     2.     The choice is left to each person.
          a.     Eternal life: now and after death.
          b.     Eternal punishment.

Personal Challenges
1.     Carefully consider what God is asking of you.
     a.     Are you using your gifts/abilities to serve God?
                1)     Pray: How can you serve God better at your job/home/school, etc.
                2)     Pray: How can you serve God better at church?
     b.     Are you telling other people about God's love?
2.     Do you know God in a personal relationship?