Text: Matthew 21:33-43
or
INTRODUCTION TO A SERMON
Pastor says to congregation:
A group has been trying to come up with different symbols to display in the church for the coming weeks. But rather than just choose one ourselves, we'd like the congregation's involvement. People have different ideas. I'll ask people to share their suggested symbols and the reasons why theirs should be selected and we'll then have a vote to see who gets the nod.
1: Brick. I believe this brick is a wonderful symbol to have before us for the next few months. The church is like a building. Each of us is a part. Each one is a brick. It's what Paul says in Cor 3:10ff - read & explain even more. I believe this should be the symbol.
2: Uncut Gem Stone: I have a gem stone here. It doesn't look very valuable, and many would miss it. But when cut and polished it's obvious to all just how special it is. Many people miss seeing how special Jesus is, but that doesn't change the fact that he is the most special one there is.
3: Crystal: This crystal should be chosen. We need to simply be reminded of the beauty of God's created world. This is a wonderful symbol for our beautiful God.
4: Plastic stone: This is one in which I hide my house key. It's absolutely worthless but it contains the key. Wonderful symbol for Jesus. He came as an ordinary human yet he contained the key to eternal life.
Pastor with ordinary Stone:... Who was going to speak about this stone. That's right, we decided not to go with the ordinary stone at our meeting. Sorry. But it's here now anyway. O well. We have just an ordinary stone. I'll just put it over here.
Vote: List votes for each item but ignore the stone.
Check if everyone has voted who wanted to vote
Well it's pretty clear which is the winner. There can be no doubt at all. It's overwhelming. This has to be the one! (Select the ordinary stone and place it in the pre-determined position for display)
READ GOSPEL
Person from congregation: Excuse me Pastor but I'm still a little confused about that stone choice thing. I don't think it's right that you ignored our votes and out that worthless stone upo there.
A Voice again reads: READ Matthew 21:42