1. Jesus’ Teaching

2. Merely Wisdom? Great lessons… o Prayer, Forgiveness (Lord’s Prayer) Mt. 6:9-15 o Compassion (Good Samaritan) Lk 10:29-37 o Generosity vs Greed (Rich Young Ruler) Lk. 18:18-27 His overall message was repentance and following God in His Kingdom

3. The Overall Message Mark’s introduction Jesus defines His work Jesus links repentance with the Kingdom 52 times in Matthew 20 times in Mark 35 times in Luke “Now after John had been taken into custody, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of God, and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Mark 1:14-15, NASU “The Pharisees and their scribes began grumbling at His disciples, saying, "Why do you eat and drink with the tax collectors and sinners?" And Jesus answered and said to them, "It is not those who are well who need a physician, but those who are sick. "I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:30-32 “From that time Jesus began to preach and say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 4:17, NASU

4. Jesus’ Work in the Community: come into God’s Kingdom by repentance Doing so changes attitudes, behaviors resulting in compassion, love, and generosity Benefit is receiving God’s grace & forgiveness Requires hard choice to deny self Jesus was bold and unabashed in His message

5. Jesus’ Boldness 1.Three audiences: crowds, Jewish leaders, disciples 2.Bold in calling for repentance and commitment to God: Luke 12 & 13 Disciples Crowds 3.Bold with individuals: Mk 10:17-22, Lk 7:36ff 4.Bold with Jewish leaders: Mt 12:38-42, 23:13 5.Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount: Mt. 7:21-28

6. Our Work in the Community Who is in the conversation? Jesus didn’t approach random strangers and berate them; but was approached by many We are in the community to gain an audience

7. “Yes, but…” “Didn’t Paul say use speech seasoned with salt?” Col. 4:5-6 Correct, we’re not obnoxious with strangers “conduct yourselves with wisdom” o Seek opportunities to build relationships o Listen for opportunities to teach o Teach with love

8. “Yes, but…” “We live in a different culture…” Yes, ancient Mid-East was more direct We must be shrewd (Luke 16:8-9) Paul prayed for boldness (Eph. 6:19-20)

9. Jesus’ Teaching