THE KINGDOM OF GOD CHANGES US

                                                           Luke 13:20-21 (766)

  Introduction

       A.  In the smaller towns and villages in Palestine, bread was made at home.

       B.  When leaven was kneaded into dough, it expanded and changed the whole character

             of the bread.

       C.  Jesus used leaven as a metaphor to teach us the influence of the kingdom of God.

             1.  Leaven here is positive.  The kingdom of God (Luke 13:20-21) and kingdom of

             Heaven (Matthew 13:33) , which are synonymous, changes us.

  I.  Before there can be any changes in dough, the leaven must be inserted inside.  In the same

       manner, before a person can be changed the kingdom of God must be in the individual’s

       heart.  Luke 17:20-21 (769); review of phrase, “kingdom of God.”

      A.  Social engineering doesn’t work.  Example.  Why?

      B.  Reformation doesn’t work.  Example.  Why

      C.  The heart must be changed.

            1.  Matthew 12:31-37 (713); Emphasis vv 34,35

            2.  Matthew 15:17-20 (716); Emphasis vv 18,19

            3.  Proverb 23:7 (499)

            4.  Romans 10:8-10 (836)

            5.  Romans 6:17-18 (833); Romans 6:3-6

II.  Dough has no power to change itself.  The changing agent must come from another source.

     A person has no power to change himself/herself; the changing agent is God.

     A.  We are sinners (Romans 3:23) and deserve eternal separation in punishment from God

           (Romans 6:23a).

     B.  We can’t change this condition ourselves, but God can through Jesus.  (Romans 6:23)

           1.  1 Corinthians 15:1-4 (850)

           2.  2 Corinthians 5:21 (854)

Conclusion

      A.  Key word: heart.

      B.  Key name: God.