Sermon 22 June – Luke 17:20 – 18:8
We read this parable in view of the end times, see chapter 17:20 onwards.
Luke 18:1 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. Acts 2:42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
So what is the solution to not give up and persevere and finish well?
What is the core teaching of this parable?
Point one: The possibility to give up is real. We are fragile and weak. We are like the apostle Peter when he denied Jesus. The reasons to give up can vary.
Point two: We do have a caring Father. He is not like the unrighteous judge. Even if it feels that he is occasionally distant he actually is very near. It is an *obstacle* to our life of prayer to think that God does not care.
The disciples thought that Jesus did not care when they were in the storm and he was sleeping.
God works out what is good and best for us. Romans 8:27-28 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Point three: We have a wonderful saviour who suffered and was rejected. Romans 8:31-32 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?
Point four: God will vindicate his elect who cry out to him day and night. There will be ultimate justice. No one can escape from God who is a righteous judge. But for his elect, those who belong to him, those he set his heart to care and love and provide for he is a good shepherd and caring father.
Point five: Pray! Develop a life of prayer. The only way to not give up is to become serious about staying connected to God through prayer.
Pastor John in one of his training sessions gave us tips how to develop a life of prayer. Ask for the training script from the office. It has practical tips to get you started and going.
Acts 2:42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.
You are not alone. Be regular in attending worship service. Fellowship: find a small group so you can stay connected with other in a meaningful way.
Conclusion
How many start well and experience extreme suffering but nevertheless keep on going? They sure have learned how to *pray*. Peter was filled with he Holy Spirit. Had a life of prayer. Persevered and even gave his life for Jesus at the end. Why? Because he had learned to pray.
