Queen's Road Cell

 The earlier parable about the unjust judge taught us to pray with persevering trust even though it seemed that answers were delayed. This second parable tells us the spirit in which were are to pray.   13. What is wrong with the Pharisee's attitude in prayer (18:11-12)? Standing is the usual posture for prayer (Mt 6:5, Mk 11:25) The Jews were only required to fast once, on the Day of Atonement.   What the Pharisee said of himself was true. But there was no sense of sin or humble dependence on God. 'The Pharisee came short of congratulating God on the excellence of his servant, but only just.' (Morris) ‘He glances at God, but contemplates himself’ (Plummer) - his prayer was completely centred on himself and his achievements. It is possible for a Christian to think (or pray) like this, but only in the recognition that God has enabled us to please Him. 14. What is good about the tax collector's attitude in prayer (18:13)? The lifting of eyes to heaven was normal in prayer...

 4. For each of these vices in 2 Timothy 2:3-4, write down a word or phrase that describes its opposite, the trait a Christian should have: I asked whether we felt that we might think of ourselves as being in the group with all these vices that Paul speaks of. I think we sometimes exhibit some of these traits in small measure, and we often fail to exhibit the opposite character in Christ-like fullness. boastful (proud)      says little of own worth, self- effacing, does not feel the need to look good, authentic  proud (arrogant)    humble, does not put oneself first, prioritises others. abusive (revilers)      encourages, reluctant to say negative things. disobedient to parents      honouring parents and willing to submit to authority ungrateful          ...

We discussed the difference between 'pride' and confidence'. Pride is thinking highly of ourselves in a self-centered way. It is wanting to take credit for what we do, whereas confidence does not need to take credit for our achievements. Pride is lifting up our self esteem. Confidence is the assurance of our own capability. Confidence that rests in God is appropriate. We said that we should be speaking an interacting with others in a way that affirms their effort rather than their nature or character when they do well  or need encouragement. This balance is especially difficult when we interact with our own children. Self-dependence, lukewarmness and loss of spiritual insight are linked (Rev 3:15-20). Christ's reproves and disciplines the lukewarm believers that He nevertheless loves. His prescription for lukewarmness is to  have us be zealous and repent. We cannot earn the gold and garments He urges us to buy - we can only receive them by responding to His knock on...