It isn't Fair

[Pastor Keith]

I preached last Sunday on Matthew 20 the parable of the vineyard owner and workers. It was launching point for sharing the truth about God's Mercy, which is not based on fairness or merit but on his own prerogative (the point of the parable). But there are things (responses) that draw God's mercy to our lives.

1. Asking for It (amazing what people pray for, but rarely Mercy)
2. Being a Channel of Mercy (being a forgiving person)
3. Not taking advantage of His Mercy (the purpose of Salvation is to live in victory over sin)

To illustrate the point I told the Story of a Lutheran Chaplain from WW2, Henry Gerecke who ministered to the Nazi War Criminals who were tried at Nuremberg. He was able to minister the simple Gospel to many of those responsible for the deaths of over 30 million people. An example of the last being first.

Here is a link for further reading: http://onemantrying.blogspot.com/200...-swastika.html

[TJJJ]

Originally Posted by Pastor Keith

I preached last Sunday on Matthew 20 the parable of the vineyard owner and workers. It was launching point for sharing the truth about God's Mercy, which is not based on fairness or merit but on his own prerogative (the point of the parable). But there are things (responses) that draw God's mercy to our lives.

1. Asking for It (amazing what people pray for, but rarely Mercy)
2. Being a Channel of Mercy (being a forgiving person)
3. Not taking advantage of His Mercy (the purpose of Salvation is to live in victory over sin)

To illustrate the point I told the Story of a Lutheran Chaplain from WW2, Henry Gerecke who ministered to the Nazi War Criminals who were tried at Nuremberg. He was able to minister the simple Gospel to many of those responsible for the deaths of over 30 million people. An example of the last being first.

Here is a link for further reading: http://onemantrying.blogspot.com/200...-swastika.html

Personally, I see that parable as those who come to Christ in their young years, middle years and then at old age. Regardless of the age they all recieve eternal life!

Just my opinion

[Sherri]

Great thoughts, Pastor Keith.