JESUS - OR A BOTTLE OF PORT?

●    going to religion to make oneself happy?

FOCUS ON FOLLOWING

●    distant goal essential for straight furrow in plowing
●    Jesus resolutely ‘set His face’ - for the end
●    re-frame earthly events into eternal context
●    life a mere breath / handbreadth: what devoted to?
●    Paul knew joy in miserable circumstances since God-focused not me-focused

RESPONDING TO REJECTION: RETALIATE OR RE-GROUP?

●    Jesus’ tolerance of Samaritans not reciprocated
●    shake dust off and move on rather than call down fire
●    forgive as in Christ God forgave you

PROSPERITY NOT PROMISED

●    ‘prosperity gospel’ enthusiastically received - but not guaranteed
●    Son of Man “underprivileged” rather than basking in creature comforts
●    God’s blessing may involve pain rather than perfect circumstances

FAMILY ISSUES AND THE FATHER’S INHERITANCE

●    “let me bury my father” sometimes a delaying tactic
●    Boomers’ anticipation of inheritance from Builders can become idolatry
●    through trusting Christ, we find a new ‘family’ - keen on doing God’s will