Future Worship at the East.
24th September 2017
Matthew 20.1-16
- Jesus tells a parable about the owner of a vineyard.
- The owner is concerned to hire as many workers as possible, all through the day.
- The owner pays all his workers the same, irrespective of when they started work.
1st October 2017
Matthew 21.23-32
- Jesus is questioned about the nature and source of his authority.
- After testing his questioners, who decline to respond, Jesus also refuses to answer.
- Instead, he tells a parable about the priority of faithfulness and obedience over appearances.
8th October 2017
Matthew 21.33-46
- Jesus tells a story about Israel and God using the familiar image of a vineyard.
- But Jesus’ version leaves his listeners feeling uncomfortable.
- With their certainties challenged, the religious authorities are fearful for themselves.
15th October 2017
Matthew 22.1-14
- Jesus tells a story in which invitations are sent out for a wedding banquet.
- The invited guests find excuses not to come, so others are invited in their place.
- A man is thrown out because he is not dressed appropriately.
22nd October 2017
Matthew 22.15-22
- Jewish leaders seek to entrap Jesus with a question about allegiance to the emperor and to God.
- Jesus counters with a carefully worded answer: give to each what they are due.
- The leaders are amazed at his teaching and leave him alone – for now.
29th October 2017
Matthew 22.34-46
- A lawyer asks Jesus which is the greatest of God’s commandments.
- Jesus, quoting the Old Testament, says: love God, and love your neighbour as yourself.
- Jesus asks a question of his audience: what sort of person might God’s Messiah be?
