Josh McGuire - Donkey Tales | Austin CFC | 2020-10-18
Summary
The speaker explores the paradox of feeling infinitely valuable because of Christ's sacrifice, yet simultaneously recognizing oneself as an unworthy servant. He uses the example of Jesus submitting to his parents' will and Benoit James' desire to be a donkey to illustrate this balance. The core message centers on self-examination, particularly regarding pride and receptivity to correction, using biblical stories involving donkeys (Numbers 22 and Matthew/Mark 11) as primary illustrations.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Are we like Balaam when facing correction?Josh encourages believers to examine themselves against biblical figures like Balaam, asking whether we react with anger and sharp words when corrected by someone we consider beneath us.
How do we react when we are the faithful donkey?In the second scenario, Josh looks at the faithful donkey that carried Balaam and asks how we should respond with gentleness and patience when those we try to help strike out against us.
Are we the colt carrying Jesus?Pretending to be the young colt that Jesus rode into Jerusalem, Josh warns against taking personal pride in the praise and attention that rightly belongs to Christ alone.
Are we the forgotten older donkey?Looking at the second donkey mentioned in Matthew but omitted in Mark, Josh highlights an attitude free of jealousy that gladly steps into the background while rejoicing in another's privilege to serve Jesus.
Summary and open sharing timeJosh summarizes the four donkey scenarios, reminding the congregation to ready their hearts for humility and testing, before opening the floor for others to share short words from the Lord.
