“A Plaque for Mayberry”

Introduction

Someone in Mayberry is a direct descendant of Revolutionary Ware hero, Nathan Tibbs, and Barney is confident that he’s the one! Instead, it turns out to be the town’s most spirited citizen!

 

Lesson Points

The Way of a Fool  (Proverbs 12:15, NIV)

15 The way of a fool seems right to him, but a wise man listens to advice.

 

Pride and Humility

Barney ( I Peter 5:5-6, The Message)

5And you who are younger must follow your leaders. But all of you, leaders and followers alike, are to be down to earth with each other, for-- God has had it with the proud, But takes delight in just plain people.

 6So be content with who you are, and don't put on airs. God's strong hand is on you; he'll promote you at the right time.

Mayor Pike and the Town Council (Proverbs 16: 32 and 18:2, The Message)

2Fools care nothing for thoughtful discourse; all they do is run off at the mouth.

32Moderation is better than muscle, self-control better than political power

Otis and Rita Campbell (Matthew 18:1-4, The Message)

1At about the same time, the disciples came to Jesus asking, "Who gets the highest rank in God's kingdom?"

 2For an answer Jesus called over a child, whom he stood in the middle of the room, 3and said, "I'm telling you, once and for all, that unless you return to square one and start over like children, you're not even going to get a look at the kingdom, let alone get in. 4Whoever becomes simple and elemental again, like this child, will rank high in God's kingdom.

Discussion

1. Tell us about someone you know (or knew) who always “sees” circumstances that supported their elevated opinion of themselves, even if no one else could see it. How did they make you feel?

 

2. The plaque rightfully belonged to Otis, but Mayor Pike and the Town Council pressured Andy to select someone to accept it in Otis’ place. What was the council’s main concern?

 

(over)

3. Do you feel that each of us should be a healthy balance between pride and humility?

 

4. Did your parents instill in you a sense of pride about your accomplishments? How has this determined your life’s path? Are you where you thought you would be at this time in your life, based on your belief in yourself?