Session 12
Matthew 13:24-30,36-43
Memory Verse: Matthew 13:40
We always think we can get away with it-
that secret sin lying undiscovered.
Perhaps it occurred in private or far enough away from home where we think no one knows us.
The problem with “successful” sin is we think we can continue doing it.
So, we keep on until judgment finally arrives in one form or another.
Nobody who sins thinks he or she will be caught.
We think we’re pretty smart.
Who’s to know?
Well, God does.
Scripture says we all have sinned and fallen short of His standard (Rom. 3:23).
It declares the result of sin is death, which includes separation from God now and in eternity.
The Bible is clear: Judgment is coming.
Accountability is inevitable.
The good news is that God’s free gift is eternal life through Jesus (Rom. 6:23).
As we repent of sin and place our faith in Christ,
we receive forgiveness from sin and eternal life with Christ (John 3:16-18; Acts 3:19).
The Great Divide!
Every day we find ourselves on one side or the other of the great divide-
country music, yes or no?
The G.O.A.T. in basketball-Michael Jordan or LeBron James?
Broccoli-yes or no?
Everywhere you look, people are being divided
into one of two groups based on preferences, circumstances, or the whims of others.
Sometimes we get to choose on which side we will fall;
other times we have no choice.
Today’s session speaks of a divide where each has a choice as to where they land.
Choose wisely! (PSG, p. 117)
Some divisions are harmless, like pulling for a sports team or choosing a flavor of ice cream.
The impact of other choices is much more serious.
Today’s session focuses on our most important choice: accepting or rejecting Jesus. Remind adults that Jesus had confronted religious leaders in Matthew 12, and they were ready to kill Him. Note that in Matthew 13, Jesus used parables to further highlight this division.
Direct attention to Pack Item 7 (Poster: Kingdom Parables in Matthew 13) and briefly review each parable. To provide more context, share this content from page 118 of the PSG:
The Greek word translated “parable” means “to lay or place something alongside of.” A parable lays something alongside something else for comparison or contrast. .
Matthew 13 contains eight parables that relate truths concerning the kingdom of God. In several of them we find an explanation of the growing divide between those who follow Jesus and those who resist Him.
As we work through these parables, reflect on your walk with Jesus. If you’ve been putting off a relationship with Him, today is the perfect day to cross the divide. If you are standing with Christ, consider how you can become a more effective “kingdom citizen” and point others to Him.