Message Notes: 3-2-08

We began a new series in 12:13 this week called “Modern Parables.” Using a video-based curriculum, we will be learning about the Kingdom of God through six of the Savior’s parables…re-told in a contemporary way through the power of film. We will take two weeks per parable to insure that students have adequate time to grapple with the implications of these remarkable short stories.

This Sunday we introduced the parable of the Hidden Treasure (Matthew 13:44). The short film told the story of a discouraged real estate agent who, after failing to sell a derelict property, discovers that it is oozing with oil. He persuades his wife to sell all that they have — the house, the silverware, even the wedding dishes! — so that they can afford to buy this piece of land. The neighbors think they are crazy, and even their attorney tries to talk them out of the transaction. But they sign the papers and end up with the top three oil companies in America competing to buy the drilling rights to their land.

It’s a compelling story — one that challenges us to take radical action to insure that we acquire this amazing treasure.

The teaching notes below will help explain the nature of parables in general and the specific implications of the parable of “Hidden Treasure.”

teaching-notes-3-2-08.doc

Let me encourage you to take some time this week to discuss this parable with your son or daughter. There is a treasure here waiting to be had! (And while you’re at it, ask them about our outdoor search for buried treasure…)

Discussion Questions:

• What is the real treasure Jesus is talking about in Matthew 13:44?
• Does it seem like a treasure to you?
• What would you be willing to give up in order to have this treasure for yourself?
• Are there people who would think you were crazy or stupid if you “sold all” to get this treasure?
• Have you personally made the decision whether or not to get this treasure for yourself?