Finding the Way Back to Mayberry

Lesson 19 - Mayberry Goes Bankrupt

Introduction
The Mayberry town council forces Andy to serve an order of eviction on a kindly old gentleman named Frank Myers. Frank has not been able to pay his taxes for some time, and the council has run out of patience. The council also states that Frank’s run down shack is an eyesore and makes the town of Mayberry look bad. Andy asks Frank if there is any way he can raise the needed tax money. Frank looks through his strongbox which contains all his valuables and comes across a $100.00 savings bond that was issued by the town of Mayberry to his great grandfather in 1861…

Lesson Points
The Unforgiving Council (Matt. 18:21-35)

            Intolerant attitude

            Caught up with appearances (John 7:24)

Lack of Compassion (Col. 3:12-14)

            Absence of love

            Finding an example in Jesus (Mark 6:34)

Opportunity to Serve (Mark 9:41)

            Meeting the needs of others

            Moving out of our "comfort zone"

Treasures (Matt. 6:19-21)

            What is really important?

            Where is our trust? (Ps. 20:7)

Giving with No Expectation of Return (Matt. 5:42)

            The true meaning of giving

            From the heart (Acts 20:35)

Discussion
In the parable of the unforgiving servant, the servant was all for forgiveness as long as he was the recipient. Do you see any similarities with the town council when dealing with Frank Myers?

In their efforts to preserve the town’s image, the council completely lost sight of the individual. As we strive to protect an image, how might we lose sight of what’s really important?

Frank carried his treasures in a strongbox. Where do we store our treasures?

Opie made the suggestion that Frank come stay at the Taylor house. Why did Andy and Aunt Bee hesitate at first?

The town council was more than willing to help Frank until they realized that his bond was worthless. When we give of ourselves, do we expect something in return? If so, is it really giving?

Final Thought
"The fact is you’ve just done something nice for a fellow townsman, now why not let it go at that." - Andy