Part 3 - The King and His Kingdom - Faithful Investments - Kingdom Entrustments “The secret of the Kingdom of God has been given to you..” Mark 4:10 Study by: Anita Venning Sermons can be viewed on the [Hope Valley Church YouTube Channel](INSERT URL HERE) GATHERING / WORSHIP / PRAYER Take a few minutes to catch up with each other and build community. If you have new people present give time to getting to know each other. Listen to the song, ”From Whom All Blessings Flow, (Doxology)” by Hillsong. FOCUS The Kingdom of God (also referred to as The Kingdom of Heaven) is a multilayered theme mentioned often in the four gospels. It refers to God’s universal rule over all of creation, for “the Lord has made the heavens His throne; from there He rules over everything” (Psalm 103:19). It also describes God's spiritual rule within the hearts of God’s children as they surrender to Jesus, who said, “...give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me” (Matthew 16:24). When Jesus spoke on the Kingdom he often taught in parables, which were simple stories rich in metaphors, to illustrate deep spiritual truths. Ultimately, they teach us to know and serve Jesus, the true King of Kings and Lord of Lords (1 Timothy 6:15). SETTING THE SCENE When Jesus told this parable, it was common for Masters to travel away on business and leave their servants with money and responsibility, with the understanding that they would continue to work and do what was best for their Master. A talent was worth more than a thousand dollars. OPENING GOD’s WORD Warm Up Question: What have you been entrusted to look after for someone else and how did you go? Read: Matthew 25:14-30 Take turns reading a few verses each or read the passage from several translations including the Message version. From this parable, the Master represents Jesus. What can we learn about him? From verses 14-23. God gives us the ability to serve. How does that encourage you? What abilities do you see in yourself and others? The Master wants his servants to be fruitful. Two of the servants see their service as an opportunity, honour and privilege. How is this a helpful view of serving? In reporting their service, the two servants and the Master were happy. What can we learn from this and can you share a time you have experienced this? The third servant had a different view of his Master and was afraid. How can these two things impact our serving and fruitfulness? When we are afraid to take risks, we won’t lose anything, but we will also gain nothing. Has fear ever stopped you from stepping out? How can we grow in being willing to take risks for God’s kingdom? What challenges you about how the parable ends? LIVING OUT GOD’s WORD Everything we are and have belongs to our Master and Lord, Jesus. What has stood out to you the most from this parable and what action can you take? PRAYER This next week or fortnight, commit to pray a prayer of availability each day and share experiences next time you’re together. Gracious Father, Today, all that you have made me to be and all that I have, I make available for your kingdom and glory. May I hear the whisper of the Holy Spirit and respond. Amen Take time to pray for each other to be bold in serving, to see it as a privilege and God given opportunity and for any other needs in the group. Contacts If you would like more information or further help, please contact: scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au