Text: Luke 17:1—19

Topic: Why we must thank God

Introduction:

Illustration: Family tries to make amends with mom who went on strike.

How do we get God to come down to us when his standards are so high?

Luke 17:1—4

We need faith to satisfy God's standard

Luke 17:5—6

God is not impressed by our good works

Servants don't deserve thanks for simply doing their job.

Illustration: Waitress serves meal and then tries to eat at your table.

Illustration: Realtor helps you buy a house and then tries to move in.

Illustration: Pastor apologizes for his big game trophies.

God is moved when we acknowledge our desperation

Luke 17:11—19

The implications of their disease caused the lepers to be completely desperate.

Illustration: Mother's heart is broken for wayward son who admits his failings.

We must be willing to own our sin and come to the cross for forgiveness.

God is pleased when we acknowledge our gratitude

One leper returned to thank Jesus, risking everything.

The degree of his desperation matched the degree of his appreciation.

Illustration: Brother receives mercy after wronging his sister.

The leper's faith was to acknowledge what Jesus had done for him.

Conclusion:

Your faith is your belief that Jesus did everything that's right about you.