On June 6, 1944, the greatest invasion force the world had ever seen traveled across the English Channel in the pre-dawn hours. Thousands and thousands of men would hurl themselves against a deadly system of fortifications known as the "Atlantic Wall" at a horrific cost. Why did they do it? Because they were fighting for freedom against tyranny. They were convinced that the high cost was necessary to make things right with the world. D-Day was successful, and the tyranny of Nazi Germany was defeated; but the world did not become a free and good place. New tyrants rose up to replace the old, new injustices succeeded vanquished ones. This is not because D-Day was a failure, but it is because the world is a place beyond our fixing. Every day brings a reminder of the inequity, cruelty, and loss in the world because of sin. It is not just that we need to defeat the enemy - we need to realize that the enemy is us. So often we think far more highly of ourselves than we ought to; so often we think we can make things right on our own. But the coming of Jesus is a reminder that God knows we are in need of a Savior, one who is perfect God and perfect Man. In the parable of the wicked tenants, we see ourselves in a mirror - people who are all too likely to reject the love and authority of the Father, and to hate His Son for coming to set things right. If we are willing, we can learn how dangerous it is to ignore "The Rejected Cornerstone" (Luke 20:9-18).

I. The Entrusted Vineyard
A. A Vine Established
B. Expecting Fruit

II. The Beloved Son
A. The Patience of the Father
B. The Love of the Father
C. The Intentionality of the Father

III. Rejection and Judgment
A. Willful Rebellion
B. Certain Judgment

Questions for consideration: (1) What dangers in our lives and thoughts can occur when we cease to be consciously aware of the presence and sovereignty of God? (2) What does this parable tell us about the nature of the Father that is especially encouraging to us? How does it help us to witness to others? (3) How can the knowledge of judgment motivate you to live with compassion and love?