1st century Christianity in the 21st century
– PARABLES OF JESUS –
The Parable of the Minas
Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immmediately. (Luke 19:11)
Continue reading “Faith In Action: Living Out Stewardship and Accountability”– PARABLES OF JESUS –
The Parable of the Shrewd Steward
This is perhaps one of the most difficult of Jesus’ parables to grasp. As we read it and look for lessons, we must be careful what we apply and how. This isn’t the only time the Lord used an unfaithful servant in a parable, but His usage here is somewhat unique.
Continue reading “The Shrewd Steward: Walking in Wisdom and Faith”– PARABLES OF JESUS –
The Parable of the Talents
If we hear someone speak about “talents,” we tend to think about skills or abilities that one has. In Matthew 25, Jesus gave a parable about three servants and their use of the master’s talents. In this case, a talent was not their skill or ability, but a sum of money.
Continue reading “Being Wise Stewards of the Lord’s Talents”– PARABLES OF JESUS –
The Parable of the Two Sons (Authentic Service)
The Jews confronted Jesus, asking what authority He had to do and say the things He did. He answered:
I also will ask you one thing, which if you tell Me, I likewise will tell you by what authority I do these things: the baptism of John – where was it from? from heaven or from men? (Matthew 21:24-25)
Continue reading “Lip Service Or Authentic Service: What Do We Offer God?”– PARABLES OF JESUS –
The Parable of Children Playing Games
Jesus spoke about the work of John the Baptist to the people. They “justified God,” for they had received his baptism. However, Luke says the Pharisees,
…rejected the will of God for themselves, not having been baptized by him. (Luke 7:30)
Continue reading “Playing Games or Genuine Service? What Do We Offer the Lord?”
“Now thanks be to God who always leads us to triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing. To the one we are the aroma of death leading to death, and to the other the aroma of life leading to life. And who is sufficient for these things?”
—2 Corinthians 2:17—
“You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16)
Continue reading “Salt of the earth and Light of the World”