We in this sermon consider the problem that occasioned this parable, the point of it, and the practice that is engendered from it. Jesus' teaching herein gives us the opportunity to evaluate whether we have succumbed to the danger of prideful insulation and self-righteous elitism, to be reminded of the gospel welcome we have received from God, and to have our churched be places for outcasts and sinners.

Paul in this passage answers the first objection to God's sovereign prerogative in election and reprobation: God is unjust or unfair or unloving. He answers be asserting and illustrating that in it is not unjust showing mercy in election and not unjust hardening in reprobation. We in this sermon answer the question why God is not unjust and seek to apply these truths.

Jesus in the Parable of the Talents is expanding upon a point made in the previous parable, the one about the ten virgins. He explains in the Parable of the Talents the motivations that drive our readiness for the return of Christ by being about the master's business. To receive this motivation we orient ourselves to this parable, contrast the one who has and the one who has not, and receive the helps for motivation offered: stewardship; faithfulness; provisions; judgment; and eternal destiny.

We consider in this sermon the doctrine of election. According to Paul God's choosing of some for salvation is individualistic, unconditional, gracious, effectual, and biblical. This doctrine is helpful for us as it exalts God, humbles us, gives us security, and is the basis of our own graciousness to others.

We in this sermon look at the context, content, and consequences of this parable. Herein and the surrounding passages Jesus teaches us what is needed to be ready for his return. We need wedding garments, alertness, service, and vigilance. The good news is that God in his sovereignty gives what is required through his means of grace.

Paul in Romans 9-11 is giving us a theological framework for understanding God's rejection of the nation of Israel because of their rejection of Christ. He begins in 9:1-5 expressing his sorrow and pain. In this sermon, we look at the statement and depth of and reasons for his anguish. At the end, we make three applications. We seek to marvel, be warned, and evaluate our own hearts.

The first part of this parable (vv. 1-10) reinforces the point of the Parable of the Tenants: Because of their rejection of the prophetic word through servants and son, the kingdom is taken from the nation of Israel and given to those who hear. The second part (vv. 11-13) teaches that only those who have been given what is needed will be able to enjoy the wedding feast, all else are cast into outer darkness. This parable illustrates the fact and consequence of rejecting the gospel's call to faith and repentance and gives the ultimate reason for that rejection: "Many are called, but few are chosen."

Paul states most remarkably that in our suffering we are super-conquerors already. This sermon explores from this passage the three reasons why: The generosity of the Father, the work of Christ, and their love of their people. After contemplating these reasons, we end with four ways God's generous work in Christ because of his love help us.