CELL NOTES 5/11/07

ICE BREAKER

When were caught red- handed – as a child? As an adult?

THEME

Repentance that counts

Reading   Psalm 51

SERMON OUTLINE

1) Story of how Alfred Nobel came to fund the Nobel prizes.

2) David had a turning point experience when Nathan ‘s story made him realize the enormity of his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah.

3) David had :-

            Emerged from humble origins to become a powerful ruler

            Wielded power with responsibility and wisdom

            Enjoyed the trappings of his position – including several wives

            Was much admired for his courage and compassion

            Was godly and aware of God’s call on his life in the midst of all this.

4) You would think he was unlikely to fall as he did – yet he did so catastrophically.

5) Temptation and sin are very real and can ruin lives. We see it daily on the tele, but the most important area to deal with is in our own hearts.

6) The Psalm is an example of how to respond – by being honest, and repentant before God. David discovered that forgiveness was real as well as sin.

7) Jesus came to break the power of sin and win and offer forgiveness. We need His mercy, but it needs to be received personally.

8) Don’t apply the message to others – how does it apply to you?

QUESTIONS OF APPLICATION

1) Read the Psalm. What picture does it give of human nature and of God? How do you feel about this?

2) When did you last apologise? When were you last apologised to? How easy do you find it to confess sin to somebody else?

3) Have you ever tried to cover up sin in your life? How have you seen God’s mercy when you have owned up to sin? What has been your experience of receiving His forgiveness personally?

4) Are you more sensitive to sin and brokenness in yourself as a Christian than beforehand? Why?