Matthew 13 marks a transition in the ministry of Jesus. As you read through these parables remember the backdrop to the story. The Jews had rejected Christ as their Messiah (11:20-24). The Jewish religious leaders began to plot for His life (12:14). Jesus explains the reason for speaking in parables (13:10ff.) with a quote from Isaiah 6:9-10. This is very significant as you look at the last two verses of this section, "But Jesus said to them, 'A prophet is not without honor except in his own town and in his own home.' And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith. (vv. 57-58).
Jesus continued to speak publicly, but only His true disciples understood the spiritual significance of His parables. So read the parables which indicate things about God's kingdom.
1. Jesus makes clear that the seed falls on all kinds of soil. Later he explains that the soil is a picture of the heart's readiness to receive God's word. What is your readiness to receive the gospel message?
2. Each of the parables that follow speak about aspects of the kingdom. Those that belong to God grow up right next to those who belong to the evil one. When the message is cast like a net, it picks up everything, the people of faith along with those that don't belong to God. What does this mean?
3. Remember Jesus is helping His disciples understand what is happening around them. If He is the Son of God, why is He being rejected? And why are those that aren't truly His disciples still around. What do these parables tell you about when you will be able to tell who belongs to God and who does not?
How Should we Pray?
Thank you Lord for a heart to believe. Give us discernment to understand what is happening today as the the gospel is proclaimed.
The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.
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