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TITLE: Request Denied
TEXT: Mark 10:37-45
PROPOSITION: There are valid reasons for being denied our requests.
QUESTION: Why?
KEY WORD: Reasons
SCRIPTURE READING: Same
INTRODUCTION:

1. Matthew includes the mother of James and John.
   
2. We have a request - will you do it?
   
3. One on your right hand, other on your left.
   

Request of James and John

Thought they were asking to be “top dog” in the kingdom - 37

Jesus answers:

You do not know what you are asking - 38

1. Right and left = sheep and goats = saved and lost (Matthew 25)
   
2. We often pray for things - we really don't want
   
3. Grass is always greener on other side of fence.
   
4. Pray “If it be your will” - according to the will of God
   

You can't handle the job. - 38-39

1. Can you drink from the cup?
   
2. Can you be baptized as I am about to be baptized?
   
3. Baptism = immersion, burial - This is a baptism of suffering.
   
4. They argue that they are ready.
   

Not mine to give - 39-40

1. You will suffer - not as Jesus - but suffer nonetheless.
   
2. Not mine to give - I am not the one who decides this issue.
   
3. Left or right hand - determined by our lives - not whim of Christ
   
4. 2 Corinthians 5:10 - deeds done in body, good or bad
   

Worldly rulers - 42

1. Other apostles were angry - didn't think of it first
   
2. Worldly rulers - Lord it over - control, dictate, order, command
   
3. They exercise authority OVER them.
   

Not so among you - 43-45

1. The Harvard business model will not work in the church
   
2. Want to be “top dog” = be the servant
   
3. Want to be first = be slave of all
   
4. Note the example of Jesus
   
   1. Not to be served - as worldly rulers
      
   2. Jesus came to serve - work, sacrifice
      
   3. Give his life a ransom for many
      

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