Lesson

Read Matthew 18:12-16
Verse 12: When to judge vs. when not to judge. Often times we think that "It's non of my business, so I don't have to get involved. That way it is not my responsibility".
Verse 13-14 : In Biblical culture, if one sheep was lost out of 100, they would secure the remaining 99 and look until they found the lost sheep. He would be so joyful that he found the lost sheep. Just as if we would look for a lost child, even if we already have other children. We wouldn't say, "that's okay, I've still got these children." Whenever we lose something of value, we are not relieved until we find it. If you lose your car keys, you don't say, "that's okay, I've still got my car" or if you lose your house key, you don't say "that's okay, I've still got a house". You will look until you find the key. God is the same way with us. We are his children. If one of us is lost, it is worth it to him to lead us back to him. We have a responsibility to be the hands and feet of God for those who have lost their way.
Verse 15 : If someone sins against us, go talk to them one on one. Jesus works through us.
Verse 16 : If he doesn't listen, take one or two others along to help talk to them.
Main Points:
1. Sheep/kids/people - If we lose one, we have a determination to find them.
2. Our motivation must be positive - compassion / love. Our motivation cannot be negative - selfishness / jealousy.
3. Right to judge vs. responsibility. We have a responsibility to go talk to someone - not just pray for them.
Discussion/Comparison of church message over time:Early church was oppressive - hellfire & damnation20th Century church - Billy Graham/Oral Roberts -
The message was simple - hope in savior / salvation. Exclusivity.21st Century church - Andy Stanley, Rick Warren, Joel Osteen, Bill Hybels - non-denominational, 10,000 - 20,000 church members, Inclusive.

In Christ,
Beth Upton