1. When Jesus made this statement He was responding to those who wanted to see a sign from Him (vs.38). 2. Unfortunately, those who made this request would not listen to the Lord. 3. Jesus showed how the people of Nineveh repented when Jonah preached to them, but the Lord is greater than Jonah (vs.39-41). 4. (vs.42) The queen of Sheba traveled a great distance to hear Solomon, but the Lord is greater than Solomon (1 Kings 10:1-7). 5. We also read about Solomon's greatness in 1 Kings 4:29-34 [according to vs.33, Solomon spoke about a number of subjects]. 6. Because Jesus is greater than Jonah and Solomon, we must listen to Him. 1. Jesus is God's spokesman today (Hebrews 1:1-2). 2. The Father said that we are to listen to His Son (Matthew 17:5). 7. In our lesson we are listening to our Lord as He taught His followers to avoid anxiety (Matthew 6:25-34). 8. As He did, Jesus mentioned a number of subjects, including food, drink, clothing, birds, stature [height], lilies, heathens, and God's kingdom.
Discussion:
I. (vs.25a) JESUS SAID THAT WE MUST NOT BE ANXIOUS OVER THE NECESSITIES OF LIFE
A. When Jesus said, "Take no thought for your life," He was teaching us to avoid being filled with care [anxiety] over things such as food, drink, and clothing. B. As He continued in this portion of His great sermon, . . .
II. JESUS EXPLAINED WHY WE MUST NOT BE ANXIOUS OVER THE NECESSITIES OF LIFE
A. (vs.25b) Jesus asked a question to show that our lives are more valuable than food and clothing. 1. We must have food and clothing to live. 2. However, we live to fulfill a very high purpose (Ecclesiastes 12:13). B. (vs.26) We are more valuable than the animals that God has created. 1. Jesus mentioned the birds of the air that the Father feeds. 2. Jesus asked a question to show that people are more valuable than birds (Matthew 10:29, 31). 3. God will bless His faithful children with the things we need (Psalm 37:25). C. (vs.27) Anxiety will not change anything. 1. Jesus asked a question to show that a person cannot change his height by worrying about it. 2. Rather than worry, let us follow the instructions given in Philippians 4:6. D. (vs.28-30) We are more valuable than the plants that God has created. 1. Jesus referred to the lilies of the field that do not toil, they do not spin, and they are here today and gone tomorrow. 2. Jesus mentioned Solomon to illustrate the beauty of plants. 3. Jesus asked a question to show that God will bless His faithful children with sufficient clothing. E. (vs.31-32) We are to have higher priorities than heathen people. 1. Heathen people are consumed with things such as the necessities of life. 2. God knows that His children need these things. F. (vs.34) We have enough to be concerned about today without being filled with anxiety over tomorrow. 1. According to 2 Thessalonians 3:12, we are to work to supply our needs. 2. As we work, let us trust God to provide our daily needs (Matthew 6:11).
III. (vs.33) JESUS GAVE THE KEYS TO OVERCOMING ANXIETY
A. We are to seek God's kingdom and His righteousness "first." B. God will bless those who do so with the things we need.
Conclusion:
1. "Jesus is greater than Solomon." 2. Let us listen to Him and follow His instructions.
