"Being Kingdom Kids"

by Rev. C. David Underwood

Matthew 18:1-4

Sermon Notes from 19 November 2000

Note: 2 children were dedicated at the start of this service.

A lack of understanding sparked this dispute among the disciples.

"Child" - infant or toddler.

What we learn from Jesus in this illustration.

1. Being honest about our helplessness. Children ask for help in the things that are simple to adults. We want to be able to save ourselves.
   • We can't save ourselves. If we can be good enough to save ourselves, why did Jesus Christ die on the cross? If we try to add to it, we say it isn't enough.
   • We can't live the kind of life God calls us to. If we could, why did he send the Holy Spirit? We are helpless in these areas, like a little child. We need to look to God like a child to it'c parent.

2. Being unconcerned with our social status. We and the disciplee have more concern with name than character.

   "Humble" - make low. Not about demanding our own way, but about being content to be a nobody for Jesus.

3. Being eager for service. The younger kids want to help with any task. We see it as getting in the way. They don't offer any skill, except for their desire to help.

   We're not intended to sit back and watch, but to work. "Follow me and I will make you fishers of men." Our desire should be for service and witness, like a kid helping it's parent.

4. Being sincere in our faith and trust.

   Their lack of understanding doesn't effect the trust of a child. They ask many questions. But they don't doubt just because they don't understand.

   Story of a boy who thanked the Doctor who hurt him in treatment of cancer, becauce it was to make him better.

"Converted" - Change of heart from the Holy Spirit.

Where do we need to change and be converted? Call upon the name of the Lord and be saved.