Parables – Planter, Pastor, Preacher

Take Care How You Hear

Take care then how you hear, Christian, because this world “is passing away along with its desires” (1 John 2:17a). Let the life, death, and resurrection of your sinless Savior speak to your heart. Let your ears daily hear the truth of his Word, that it may dwell in you richly,[6] training you to confess your sin to your faithful and justice Father,[7] to walk in his righteousness, as the Spirit conforms you to Christ.[8] “For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Cor. 4:6).

The Sown Word

In the tenth chapter of Romans, the apostle Paul describes the necessity of proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ, as “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” One cannot believe the gospel if one does not hear it, in various ways and various forms, and one cannot hear it unless it is shared or proclaimed. Hearing then is necessary for salvation, but hearing is not enough. The gospel must be truly believed, yet not all who hear believe.

Awaiting the Bridegroom

Stories are indeed powerful, as we see in this simple parable. But more powerful than a parable is the reality of Christ’s presence within all who believe.

Gratitude for Grace

Rejoicing in the generosity of our gracious God, let us extend grace to our neighbor, rejoicing in God’s blessings. And let us glorify God with our lives, living in gratitude for grace.

The Purpose of Parables

Therefore, the purpose of Jesus’ parables is less in the story told but of whom the story tells. He is the central theme of every parable, a truth understood only by receiving the gift of saving knowledge in Him.

Faith Comes from Hearing

Through our union with Christ we bear fruit. There may be varying yields according to God’s grace, but a true disciple is identified by bearing it.

An Advancing Kingdom

The kingdom of heaven is flourishing on earth since its inauguration but is disregarded by the world. It advances while sin, wickedness, and rebellion continue, but as the advancement continues there will be a conclusion, the close of the age (Matt. 13:39), and the consummation of the kingdom of heaven.