Tim Time. Sunday, September 17, 2023

It is interesting that numerous times Jesus had people who were all excited about following Him, but were reminded about the difficult choices that would need to be made. Matthew records Jesus telling a man that wanted to be a disciple, but first he needed to go bury his father and Jesus answered him, "Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead." (Matthew 8:21-22)

Another time Jesus confronted Peter's misunderstanding with the words, "Get behind me Satan!" (Matthew 16:23)

Jesus later said, "Whoever wants to be my disciples must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" (Matthew 8:18-22, Matthew 16:21-28)

Jesus does not like excuses and this morning we will study a parable from Luke 14 where people refuse an invitation to the banquet.

Just for fun, take a look at this delightful gospel quartet song, "Excuses, Excuses".