Lemay Church of Christ

AN INWARD LOOK: A REACHING OUT

MATTHEW 18:1-4

INTRODUCTION:

            A.        In Context:

                        1.         Jesus has just been transfigured and identified by the Father;                                                          Matthew      17:5

                        2.         The demon possessed boy has been healed; Matthew 17:14-23

                        3.         The question of paying tribute has been answered; Matthew 17:24-27

            B.         Chapter eighteen begins with a question from the disciples; Matthew 18:1

            C.        The answer of Jesus directs them to “An Inward Look and A Reaching Out"

I.          JESUS CALLS A LITTLE CHILD TO BE AN EXAMPLE:  Matthew 18:2

            A.        “Except ye be converted”; Matthew 18:3

                        1.         Conversion demands an inward look; Romans 3:23

                        2.         Conversion always accepts responsibility for ones’ actions; Luke 18:13

            B.         Upon examination and acceptation of guilt, changes are demanded;                                                II Corinthians 13:5

            C.        Jesus used a “little child” as an example of humble submission; Matthew 18:3-4

II.         THE CHANGES OF CONVERSION ARE THREE-FOLD: 

            A.        Israel was told to transform in heart and spirit; Ezekiel 18:31

                        1.         The brethren at Ephesus were told; Ephesians 4:22-24

                        2.         The brethren at Rome were given instruction to transform; Romans 12:2

                        3.         Daily renewal of the inward man is needed; II Corinthians 4:16

            B.         Conversion demands a change of life; Ephesians 4:22-32

                        1.         Put off the old man and put on the new; Ephesians 4:22-24

                        2.         Grieve not the holy Spirit of God; Ephesians 4:30

                        3.         A life which imitates Christ; Ephesians 4:32

            C.        Conversion involves a change of state and action

                        1.         Ones allegiance will change; Ephesians 4:1-3

                        2.         The Jews had to leave the Old Law and obey Christ; Romans 7:4

                        3.         The truly converted will no longer allow sin to rule them; Romans 6:12

III.       TO BE CONVERTED ONE WILL HAVE TO REACH OUT TO JESUS:  Matthew 11:28-30

            A.        He alone has the power to save; Acts 4:12

            B.         The blood of Jesus was the price of salvation; Ephesians 2:13

            C.        It is through His sacrifice that we have atonement and a relationship with God;                           I Corinthians 12:13

CONCLUSION:

            A.        Have you been baptized into the death of Christ; Romans 6:3-4

            B.         Will you obey the will of God and let Him give you eternal glory?

            C.         The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come”!