Do You Trust God or Test Him? | Mark GreathouseHow to Pass the Tests of Life

How does Jesus distinguish between testing and trusting God in Mark 12? In Mark 12, Jesus identifies testing as a heart condition rooted in skepticism and self-preservation, often demonstrated by the religious leaders seeking to entrap Him. Conversely, trust is defined as total surrender to God's lordship, exemplified by the widow who gave everything. By choosing to trust rather than test, believers move from religious observation into an intimate, life-changing relationship with Christ. 🙏 Need Prayer? We’d love to pray with you: https://lakewoodchurch.com/prayer 🔍 In This Message, You’ll Learn: - The power of parables to reveal the mysteries of the kingdom of God to a ready heart. - How to identify and avoid the trap of religious hypocrisy and empty tradition. - The significance of the cornerstone as the foundation for a life aligned with God's will. ❓ Common Questions Q: What is the meaning of the cornerstone in Mark 12? A: The cornerstone is a symbolic representation of Jesus as the secure foundation upon which the entire kingdom and our individual lives must be aligned. Q: What did Jesus mean by "render to Caesar what is Caesar's"? A: Jesus taught that while we have earthly obligations, we must give our ultimate allegiance and our very lives back to God because we are made in His image. 📖 Key Scriptures: -- Mark 12:10 – The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. -- Mark 12:30 – Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. 00:00 Welcome & Opening Prayer 01:35 How to Use Parables for Spiritual Insight 02:13 Why Is Jesus Called the Chief Cornerstone? 03:15 How to Overcome the Entrapment of Religious Tradition 04:02 Understanding the Reality of the Resurrection 05:10 What Is the Greatest Commandment in the Bible? 06:12 How to Give with a Heart of True Worship 06:50 Closing Blessing 📲 Follow #LakewoodChurch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lakewoodchurch Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LakewoodChurch Inst