“Faithful Fathering: From Consumer to Committed”

Father’s Day - June 17, 2012 Mk 9:14-29   Play AUDIO (32 kbps mp3)

CAUTIONS ON CONSUMERISM

●    does nontraditional format prompt consumers to drive on by?
●    kids catch on if parents have ‘consumer’ attitude toward church

EXAMPLE: THE HEAVENLY FATHER’S AFFIRMATION

●    Jesus’ 3 predictions of coming crucifixion/resurrection: implication for disipleship
●    Transfiguration: Father’s beautifying, endorsing, affirming, authorizing His Son

STUMPED, SLANDERED, SCARRED: BARRAGED BY UNBELIEF

●    stumped - unable to heal epileptic / possessed boy
●    slandered - nagged by scribes: Enemy gloats
●    scars of boy’s condition - pain from fire / water; anguish of parents

FAITH’S POSSIBILITIES

●    consumer asks for help without real commitment
●    doubting disastrous in spiritual matters
●    question of ability different from question of willingness
●    everything possible for those who believe
●    commitment believes, acknowledges one’s need for help
●    boy’s healing shows hints of Jesus’ coming death / resurrection
●    prayer and faith make mountain-moving possible

“FOLLOWING JESUS” – AND LEADING OUR CHILDREN

●    EMC “7-fold way of following Jesus” emphasizes our responsibility for our journey
●    church programs can’t supplant parents’ responsibility for children’s discipling

FAITH OVER THE FALLS

●    real faith not only believes THAT tightrope walker can do it: gets in the wheelbarrow
●    Wallenda stays calm by quoting scripture, praying
●    children’s remarkable confidence in father’s ability