Plot Twist: The Deceitful Sons

CLCC Church Podcast

Plot Twist – Didn’t See That Coming

Sermon: The Deceitful Sons

Matthew 21:28-32

Sermon Summary

The Big Idea of this study is that our walk needs to match our talk. Our profession often out paces our practice. The Lord is concerned that we don’t just say the right things but do the Father’s will.

This week we are looking at a parable that is probably not that familiar. The context sets the stage for the teaching. Jesus is being questioned about his authority to talk about God. Jesus asks the religious leaders where they thought John the Baptizer’s authority came from. John was very popular among the common folks and many had been baptized by him as a sign of repentance and faith in God. The religious leaders wouldn’t answer because if they admitted his authority came from God they would have to explain why they did not get baptized. If they said it was not from God the people would revolt and give them a hard time.

Jesus uses the parable of the deceitful sons to drive his point home. It is not those who say the right things that please the Father but rather those who do the will of the Father. Neither of the sons’ responses would bring joy to the Father’s heart. Our profession and our practice need to be aligned but unfortunately this is often not the case. Fortunately there is always room for repentance.

Questions for Discussion:

1. Read the preamble to the parable, verses 23-27. Why does Jesus not want to tell them by what authority he is ministering? (Hint: they probably wouldn’t believe him anyway)

2. Compare the chief priests and elders with the second son. What do they have in common?

3. Why was John’s baptism so appealing to the tax collectors and prostitutes?

4. Discuss the theme of repentance in the parable.

5. Why is it important to align our profession with our practice? Is this ever completely accomplished this side of heaven?

6. How might our profession help or hinder our victory over our unconverted places?

7. What might we do to create better alignment between our walk and our talk?