Stories are not just for bedtime or for the television screen. Jesus used storytelling to communicate what his Kingdom is all about. And in Matthew 13, Jesus uses a specific type of story to do this: a parable—a practical story, often framed as a simile, that illustrates a spiritual truth. In order to understand Jesus’ parables we must listen from the original hearer’s perspective, look for the main point, and let the truth change our perception.
Take-Away Questions:
What is the responsibility of believers who have been given an understanding of the secrets of the kingdom? How should we respond to this knowledge?
Reflect on the gratitude for grace mentioned in the sermon. How does the awareness of being recipients of God's grace impact your worship and daily life?
How would you evaluate your own heart of giving in light of what God has given to you, namely “eyes that see” and “ears that hear”?
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