Mark 14:27-31

TITLE: Scattered Sheep TEXT: Mark 14:27-31 PROPOSITION: Sheep are easily scattered without a good shepherd. QUESTION: Why? KEY WORD: Causes SCRIPTURE READING: Same

INTRODUCTION:

1. Jesus tells his apostles that when he is arrested - they will scatter.

2. Matthew 26:56 Then all the disciples forsook him and fled.

3. What causes sheep to scatter?

Lack of faith

1. Faith - trust, confidence

2. If we do not believe in our leaders - we will wander away

Fear

1. Fear is a negative motivator - restricts, cowers down, runs away

2. 2 Timothy 1:7 We have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power of love and of a sound mind.

No real depth to their commitment

1. Many are faithful - as long as there is no cost

2. When put to the test - would you run or stay?

3. If you were one of the 12 - you would have fled also

Trouble, strife

1. Internal strife - division, debate, arguing, fussing = scattering of sheep

2.“I don’t need this. I am going elsewhere.”

3. We must learn to disagree - without being disagreeable!

Inattention

1. Sometimes the flock moves on with the shepherd and we do not notice.

2. Are you paying attention? Are you listening?

Not being fed - hungry

1. Some leave because they are not being fed - churches leaving the “old paths”

2. Change agents - seeking to attract the “unchurched” - abandon feeding the flock

Enemy attacks

1. Persecution is inevitable - 2 Timothy 3:12 - Righteous will suffer persecution

2. When wolves attack:

A. Some get stronger, bolder, stand up and resist

B. Many will just run the other way - scatter

Conclusion:

1. The flock of God will always need good, strong, courageous leaders.

2. This church is blessed with a strong, united eldership.

3. We have deacons who take their work seriously and faithfully.