The Parables of Jesus

Millions of dollars are spent each year to produce books, DVD’s and other material designed to help people boost their self-esteem and discover their true identity. From the moment Adam and Eve were created, they had no problem with their self-esteem or their identity. They had been created in the image of God and they were given dominion over the rest of creation, to rule over it and to be stewards of all that God had created … to use it to glorify God, their Creator. Then came sin and everything changed. Apart from God’s supernatural work of regeneration, every human being since Adam and Eve has been born with a sinful human nature. The consequences are clear to anyone who has been given eyes to see: the spectrum of human depravity stretches from extreme arrogance and self-exaltation to utter worthlessness and despair. Today people attempt to build up their self-esteem by reading a book that tells them they are important, even though they don’t feel like they are. Society places people in “social classes” and millions long to be like the rich and famous who seem to “have it all!” Many try to find their identity in their work or in some other field where they can feel they have accomplished something of worth. People strive for awards, for recognition, but often find even their accomplishments unsatisfying. And now, having no sense of “who they are,” thousands are trying to find their “true identity” by changing their gender, believing that will help them feel “whole.” But there is only one place to find your true identity, and that is by confessing your sin, your need for mercy, and then discovering your new identity in Christ! In our parable today you will hear Jesus speak of the only way to be REAL: to humble yourself before God, your Creator, and become a new creation!!