Renewing Your Mind Podcast Summary Episode: The Donkey Who Carried a King Release Date: April 14, 2025

Introduction to the Episode

In this special edition of Renewing Your Mind, hosted by Nathan W. Bingham, listeners are treated to a heartfelt rendition of R.C. Sproul's beloved children's book, "The Donkey Who Carried a King." This episode is particularly poignant as it serves as a preparatory reflection leading up to Easter, encapsulating profound theological truths through the engaging narrative of a young donkey named Davey.

Narrative Reading: The Story of Davey

R.C. Sproul begins by setting the scene with a tender portrayal of Riley, an 8-year-old boy feeling left out as other children consistently pick him last for games. Seeking solace, Riley turns to his grandfather, who shares the enchanting story of Davey, a donkey yearning for purpose.

Key Plot Points:

• Davey's Inactivity and Yearning for Purpose: Davey, unlike his industrious siblings, spends his days idly, longing to perform meaningful tasks. His frustration mirrors Riley's feelings of exclusion and inadequacy.

• Legendary Donkeys: Through Grandpa's storytelling, listeners learn about famous donkeys like Balaam's donkey, who miraculously spoke to prevent Balaam from prophesying against God's people, and Barnabas, who carried Mary and the baby Jesus to Bethlehem.

• Davey's Opportunity: One day, Davey is chosen to carry Jesus into Jerusalem. Despite his initial surprise and humility, he embraces his role with dedication, experiencing a moment of glory as the crowd waves palm branches and shouts praises:

  R.C. Sproul [00:09]: "Hosanna. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel."

• Subsequent Challenges: Immediately after his moment of honor, Davey returns to mundane tasks, carrying heavy sacks of olives. Disheartened, he confronts Barnabas about the disparity between carrying a king and performing ordinary duties.

• Revelation and Transformation: Observing Jesus later bearing the cross, Davey realizes that even the King serves and sacrifices for others. This epiphany leads him to embrace his daily responsibilities with newfound purpose and humility.

Notable Quotes:

• Davey's Realization:

  R.C. Sproul [15:30]: "I carried the king, he thought. I must be a very special donkey."

• Barnabas's Wisdom:

  Barnabas [16:20]: "It is our job to carry things, whatever the master decides to put on our backs. Every job is important, even carrying sacks of olives."

• Grandpa's Lesson to Riley:

  R.C. Sproul [17:15]: "Remember that God the Father chose Jesus for the worst job of all, but he did it willingly to please his father and to save his people."

Theological Discussion: Insights from R.C. Sproul

Following the narrative, Chris Larson engages R.C. Sproul in a profound discussion that delves deeper into the theological implications of the story.

Key Discussion Points:

1. Jesus as King and Servant:

   • Chris Larson [18:40]: Highlights the dual role of Jesus as both sovereign king and obedient servant.
   • R.C. Sproul [18:51]: Confirms Jesus's supreme authority, stating,

     "He is the king of all the kings. And every other earthly magistrate... will be accountable and answerable to King Jesus."

2. Call to Service and Obedience:

   • R.C. Sproul [19:20]: Emphasizes the Christian duty to serve humbly, mirroring Jesus's own servant leadership.

     "Jesus is first the obedient servant before he is crowned as the King of the kings."

3. Contentment in God’s Will:

   • R.C. Sproul [21:02]: Discusses the virtue of contentment, referencing biblical figures like John the Baptist and Apostle Paul who exemplified this trait.

     "Whatever job God gives us to do... we are to be happy and content with where we are."

4. Role of the Family in Nurturing Faith:

   • R.C. Sproul [22:42]: Stresses the family's paramount role in nurturing children in Christian truth.

     "The family is the number one place where we are called to be nurturing our children in the truth and admonition of the Lord."

5. Faithfulness in Small Tasks:

   • R.C. Sproul [23:48]: Reflects on the importance of being faithful in little things as a foundation for greater responsibilities.

     "You have to be faithful in little things before you can ever hope to be faithful in the big things."

Notable Quotes:

• On Contentment:

  R.C. Sproul [21:02]: "The Apostle Paul had to learn how to be content... Whatever job God gives us to do, whatever state we find ourselves in, we are to be happy and content with where we are."

• On Service and Sacrifice:

  R.C. Sproul [19:20]: "Jesus is first the obedient servant before he is crowned as the King of the kings."

• On Family's Role:

  R.C. Sproul [22:42]: "The family is the number one place where we are called to be nurturing our children in the truth and admonition of the Lord."

Conclusion: Embracing Purpose and Service

The episode beautifully ties the narrative of Davey the donkey to the broader Christian ethos of service, humility, and contentment. Through Davey's journey, R.C. Sproul imparts essential lessons about finding purpose in every task, mirroring the sacrificial love of Jesus. The conversation between Chris Larson and R.C. Sproul further enriches these themes, urging listeners to embody the servant-hearted leadership exemplified by Christ.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own roles, whether grand or modest, and to approach each with dedication and gratitude, understanding that every task holds significance in God's divine plan.

Additional Resources

For those moved by this episode, R.C. Sproul's "The Donkey Who Carried a King" is available in hardcover and ebook formats. The hardcover edition includes a section for parents and grandparents with follow-up questions to facilitate gospel conversations with children. Interested individuals can request their copy by donating any amount at renewingyourmind.org or by calling 800-435-4343.

Stay Tuned: The rest of the week’s episodes will continue to explore the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, delving into the profound question: What did Jesus do to save sinners?