To condense it all into a nutshell, if you're doing it for show, if you're doing it to impress people, it doesn't count in God's sight. What you do in secret, for God, in accord with God's Word, is what pleases God. And I believe this is what true humility is all about.

The Pharisees did what they did with the primary motive of impressing those around them, but their hearts were far from God. They substituted their own traditions for the Word of God, laying heavy burdens on others but not offering any help themselves. They prayed long prayers on street corners to impress others of how pious they were, but foreclosed on widow's houses. They had people to blow trumpets before them when they put their money into the treasury so everyone could see how generous they were. But they only gave of their surplus. Jesus' most scathing rebukes were reserved for these hypocrites, accordingly. And this also is why he told them harlots and tax collectors would go into the kingdom ahead of them, because they would see their sorry condition and repent, while the hypocritical pharisees would only justify themselves and look down on others.

The parable of the Pharisee and the publican I think most graphically illustrates this differencel
^ TOP

I agree with you about putting more into it than what is there. I too wonder what the oil is and that you can go and buy it. As for being ready look up for HE is coming. When you see the shadow, know that things are near. Paul said Feast days are a shadow of things to come. Rosh Hashanah is the blowing of the horn for TEN days and then at the LAST TRUMP well, you know the rest of the story.
^ TOP

Tare's love liberal idea's, and organizations of destruction....they "tare" things apart. Also, are found in the 4 agencies, Polictic, Econmics, Education, Religion.....that reglious teaching that is destructive and compromising....."falls short"....they twist the scripture to meet their agendas.....They appear very sweet....yet their teeth are sharp.
^ TOP

I believe that the 10 virgins are bridesmaids. Wedding signifiies a good and wonderful time, and in our daily vocubarlary, "Let us celebrate and go partying".

When we go partying, it applies to everyone. In our christian world, every ordinary christians are invited. But if you are not alert and not watchful, you will miss the party time.

So, the virgins are just us, the ordinary christians. Bridesmaids help the wedding party, but they are not someone improtant enough to make or break the wedding.
^ TOP

This is not about the rapture of the church at all. Jesus is speaking to Jews about the tribulation period. The virgins are Jews. Five responded to the preaching of the 144,000 evangelists and worshipped God and five did not. When the king comes to reign at the end of the tribulation period, the tribulation saints are raptured as He gathers the elect from the four winds from one end of heaven to the other. 24:31 Notice that they go out to meet the bridegroom, not to marry him. He is already married to the church which is a virgin in the singular never in plural. This parable which begins with "then" (Identifying the period that is being discussed) is nestled between Matt 24:30 describing the Lord coming in in the clouds in His glory (Rev 19) and Matt.25:32 where is is seated on His throne and judging the nations. While these foolish virgins go out to buy oil, they take the mark of the beast, forever shutting themselves out and sealing their destiny to be cast into the lake of fire. Rev 14:1-6
^ TOP

Why aren't all the characters in this parable Jewish?
Why did Jesus pick a Samaritan to be the neighbor in this story?

As Robert Mendez Jr. previously pointed out, Samaritans were "a product of mixed interbreeding between jews from the Northern Kingdom and other people after Israel's exile. They were considered heretics." The Jews saw them as half-breeds. Samaria was directly north of Israel. When Jews needed to get on the other side of Samaria ... they literally walked all the way around so they didn't have to pass through. Why bother? Because that's how strongly the Jews felt about Samaritans.

But before we look down on the Jews we must admit that there is still racism in our society today. So who is our neighbor? Jesus felt the need to point out that the person we find hardest to love is our neighbor.

What's an example for modern times? Being from the US, to me this question is the same as asking "What group of people do Americans want to love the least?"

Arabs, Muslims, Iraqis ... these people are our neighbors.



--Peter

^ TOP

I have a challenge for anyone reading this. In my studies of the “kingdom of God” there is this mystical thing breathing in the background that if you understand and accept, it will make you more productive in the kingdom of God. I’m convinced that it is the actual spirit of the matter, and if not understood, a lot of people will sit there and scratch their heads pondering why their spiritual lives are not more productive. What is this mystical spirit that permeates the teachings of the kingdom of God? It’s the spirit of true humility.

Humility is something that can be misconstrued. One person may think their being humble by saying “there’s none righteous no not one” and this is after he’s made Jesus the lord of his life. In their false sense of humility they reject scripture that support that in Christ we have become the righteousness of God. Humbleness never says “oh, no God. You’re sadly mistaken. I’m a putrid thing, if you only knew how pathetic I really am”. Notice the arrogance in this. Telling God that he’s so stupid he doesn’t know how retched you are. When he’s the guy who told you to repent for being a sinner. There comes a time when we must humble ourselves as children and just accept what he says without challenging him. What do we care if he says you’re the richest person in the universe? ACCEPT IT! What do we care? What if he says you’re the most beautiful person in the universe? Don’t run and look in the mirror and say I’m hideous, and through doing so cast Gods word out as a lie. Just accept it like a child does. “You’re a good boy aren’t you Johnny”? “Oh no mom I’m a retch”! Children don’t act like that and we need to learn to do the same thing. Otherwise his word will never penetrate our hearts and will not sink roots. Doesn’t the ground have to receive the seed before the seed will grow and produce fruit? Well what does it matter what God says-if it’s a good thing?

Now notice these expressions used in scripture and see if you don’t notice an underlying spirit. “HIDDEN”, “SECRET” ”CONCEALED”, “WHISPERED IN THE EAR IN CLOSETS”, (your own prayer closet) “DO NOT DISIGURE YOUR FACE WHEN FASTING LIKE THE HYPOCRITS DO”, “LET NOT THE LEFT HAND KNOW WHAT THE RIGHT HAD DOETH”, “DO THY ALMS IN SECRET” ‘SOUND NOT THE TRUMPET AS THE HYPORITS DO”. Do you see anything in all these expressions? The idea is that if we will humble ourselves and be content to be hidden, to do things in private, not attempting to show things to the outer world, YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER WILL REWARD YOU OPENLY.

There is a story that frequently comes up in faith circles that goes like this. A woman was suffering from a terrible goiter that had grown to about the size of a basketball hanging from her neck- if that’s not an exaggeration. Well this woman wood come to the meetings of a very blessed man of God by the name of Wigglesworth (last name). For three years in a row she would come to these meetings and testify to the crowd that she had been healed by God and was demonstrating her faith by doing so. Well, in the presence of the crowd as she was testifying, the goiter disappeared and she was healed. Truly a wonderful miracle. But faith people have seized upon this to say, “Look at the faith of this person who would testify of things that are not yet manifested as though they already were” and they encourage to do likewise But did you know that Jesus taught just the opposite? “Yes, but she was healed” you may say. Isn’t God wonderful! I’ve been blessed too when my thinking was absolutely backwards. The secret of faith is to do just the opposite. It’s called humility or humbling yourself before God. We are to accept Gods word into our hearts through prayer and then to conceal it as though it was a map to a treasure. Harboring it in our hearts and literally fighting its’ coming to the surface. “Let not your left hand know what the right hand doeth” If it’s you, then you have your reward. But if it’s God who’s doing the exalting, you’ll be exalted indeed, in the presence of people. I liken it to a train jumping its tracks at just the right time. Your own heart will assume a mind of it’s own.

Maybe the act of planting a seed is literally humbling that seed. It’s dead you know. The life has gone out of it. Maybe it’s an example of the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. But one thing is certain to me anyway. There is a spirit of meekness that just beckons God to exalt us. Maybe in this day and age of know-it-alls, we’ve become a little too all knowing ourselves. Maybe we need to hide ourselves in Christ trusting that the father will promote us into the light. Just a thought.



^ TOP

Because Jesus told this parable (and had therefore not died yet), keep in mind that a person could not simply "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved-Acts 16:31. Jesus had not died yet. Sin's debt had not been paid "once and for all". This passage therefore does NOT show where a New Testament believer in Christ will go, but rather where Old Testament believers would temporarily exist. I say temporarily because both the rich man and Lazarus will one day stand before the Great White Throne where the book of life will be opened and THEN their FINAL destination will be decided; either eternity future with Christ on a "new heaven and a new earth", or in torment forever in the lake of fire. Remember that Abraham obeyed God and it was "accounted to him for righteousness". This parable gives us an insight to the waiting place of the Old Testament believer; not the New Testament. This is NOT a proof text for the Catholic view of limbo. This does NOT relate to a present-day Christian.
Looking at the parable, I find several interesting points:

(1) The rich man and Lazarus were in the SAME place. Yes they were separated by a "great gulf fixed", but they could see and recognize each other.

(2) Being able to see one another, we see that they must have had bodies that were visible to one another. The rich man could still see, speak (to God), and feel the pain of his torment.

(3) However, Although their physical senses are functional, they do not still have their physical bodies. Verse 22 is clear in explaining that the rich man's physical body was indeed buried!

What I have covered thus far is merely an introduction to this parable (only covering up to verse 24). The real meat of this story is in Abraham's warning in verse 25 and the importance of the spiritual rather than the temporary things of this world. To quote one of the humblest Christian poets of my generation:

"Who have I in heaven but you Jesus? What better could I hope to find down here on earth?" -Rich Mullins

I hope this has been helpful.
Myself your servant for Jesus' sake
-B.D. Means

^ TOP

The Jungian view would be to see these two sons as parts of ourselves. The Shadow side would be the son we deny (hide). The Father represents Individuation, or Wholeness.
Many haggle over which brother should receive the most praise. If we consider that the risk-taking adventurer and the dutiful cautious law abider are just two slices to investigate within ourselves, we may deepen our understanding of how God can love both when we are centered in Him (or home). The older son "projects" his shadow on the younger instead of owning it. This is like the pharisee who prayed (regarding the sinner( "I thank you God that I am not like him".) Or like the woman about to be stoned by those who probably fantasized about what she did, but never dared act it out. Shadow issues come out when we get critical and judgemental.
Regardless of which brother moves us or yanks our chain, the Father symbolizes the wholeness (in Christ) that can come when we don't split-off (judge) and we come home to forgiveness (reconciation) and a wholeness that gives us peace. I am a Christian as well as a Jungian psychotherapist (pastoral).



^ TOP

Would you help me in my project about the parable of the prodigal son???
^ TOP

please can l have someone help me with the sermon on the prodigal son.the lessons we learn from the story as l am to preach the sermon soon.
^ TOP

I am catechist and would very much like to obtain the picture which you describe. Thank you and God Bless!
^ TOP

Something Preachers in this Country has forgotten!
They care more for their wallet then they do the sheep in the fold!


Which off you,

having a hundred sheep,
if he lose one of them,
doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness,
and go after that which is lost,
until he find it?

And when he hath found it,
he layeth it on his shoulders,
rejoicing.

And when he cometh home,
he calleth together his friends and neighbours,
saying unto them,
Rejoice with me;
for I have found my sheep which was lost.

I say unto you,
that likewise joy shall be in heaven
over one sinner that repenteth,
more than over ninety and nine just persons,
which need no repentance.
^ TOP

Also do not forget what Jesus says later in both Matthew and Mark... several chapters after the cursing of the fig tree and the parable of the fig tree Jesus says this:

"Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that it is near, right at the door. I tell you the truth, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my workds will never pass away." - Matthew 24:32-35 and Mark 13:28-31.

Jesus is speaking here just after relating a series of warnings about the end times and in fact the since the fig tree represents the NATION (tree) of ISRAEL (fig) it is feasible to suggest that this is a direct prophesy about the coming of the Tribulation.

I'm not the kind of person who goes around prognosticating and ranting about the end of the world and the Bible clearly says that "the day of the Lord will come like a thief" (2 Peter 3:10) so I'm not trying to predict the end but I do think that it is fascinating to see how this correllates with the withering of the nation of Israel about AD 70 and its subsequent rebirth in AD 1948.

I've read that the Bible maintians that a generation lasts 40 years and begins in the 20th year and ends in the 60th, putting the coming of Christ some time in 2008 if you do the math that way. But generation could also mean RACE in which case there is no math to be done. If this is the prophesised generation of the fig tree then we may see these things fulfilled very soon. Perhaps not though.

The point is to be prepared and always have your heart in the right state and never waver in doing the work God has put you here to do.
^ TOP

I hope that it is possible to assist me
I have a Bible Study on
St. John 4:35 - The Ripe Harvest;
James 3:18 - The Plenteous Harvest;
Luke 10:2 - The Righteous Harvest.

I urgently need information please help me
^ TOP

Better late than never to understand that his work to empower those bidden to supper was done. He wasted no time at all but extended what was intended for them to any within his reach. So it began again, to embolden others to forge ahead and gain their relationship to god. I see it as a positive outcome. The strength of the parable was in the nature of the giver to give, not the receiver to receive.
^ TOP

Neither would mine! Why? Because God has the control of our hearts, giving us His Love for the lost, that no flesh shall die from lack of knowledge. whereby we don't look for earthy things!
Our only desire is to see a sinner turn to Our Lord, that they might be saved!

If Kevin, or anybody else, is looking for reward, instead of leading the lost to Christ, maybe they should try something besides the Ministry!
^ TOP

I think you've seized upon something that isn't a part of the parable of the sower. The context is the kingdom of God. The place where we're sowing the seed is into the realm of the spirit, our hearts. Jesus said that the kingdom of God is within you. Did you notice that Jesus never addressed the issue of watering the seed? Well don't seeds need to be watered? Then why not address such a critical thing? Because if you go back into the Garden of Eden, you'll recall that a mist watered the plants of Eden, the watering was already provided for in this garden. In this realm of the kingdom within, the watering is already provided for. And lets not forget that the seed were talking about is the Word of God. "Being born again not of corruptible seed but of incorruptible seed, by the word of God which live and abides forever. If the seed is planted it will grow! God will provide the increase. The curse that has come upon the earth and our physical bodies has not contacted that place where these seeds are sown. It's infinitely easier to produce in the realm of the spirit for "he watches over his word to perform it." The tough part is in having enough scriptural knowledge to be able to plant the seed and turn loose of it for long periods of time. Being patient. But I wouldn't seize upon the curse that IS in this earth to allow the enemy to say why ever bother. Maybe your just saying that God has the final say. But then what about dope and poppy plants? If seeds are planted in the realm of the kingdom of God inside us they will grow. Good or bad.
^ TOP

Who are the tares and when were they first planted and do their progeny still exist today? Is it possible that the source of these tares is directly connected with the "sons of God" and their offspring, the nephilim as recorded in Genisis 6:4? Does the book of Enoch have any relevence to this. After reading it, I believe that the all this is very possible.
^ TOP

Father God in the name of Jesus I pray that you will give me the power to confuse and confound the enemy. God I pray please bring the Holy Spirit into my office. God I pray that you will bring people around myself, my children, my brother, my sisters and all other family members that are under the Blood of Jesus. God I pray please heal Jake's ankle and let the swelling go down. God I pray for Bonnie that the might be healed. God I pray for Mr. Rick who has cancer that he might not suffer. God I pray please give Christopher protection over in Iraq. God I pray for you to send the right person to get me out of bondage. God I pray please give me the wisdom to know what to do. God I pray for you to lead, guide and direct me by your spirit. God I pray please give my son some financial help. God I pray please bring ministering angels to Debbie and get her the help that she needs. God I pray go ahead of me and clear the way today. God I pray that you might strengthen my faith and let me see your mighty power at work. God I pray please keep the devil and his demons off of my back. God I pray that you will stop this harassing spirit and harassing phone calls that I am getting. God I give you all of the praise and honor and glory for it. In the Holy Name of Jesus. Amen
^ TOP

In Jesus’ time Israel was under the control of the Roman Empire. Hellenic culture was taking over traditional Jewish culture, and the Roman Empire had governors to rule over their provinces. There were many different groups that separated the people of Israel. People went to Jesus to ask if there was any hope for the Jews and their way of life.

The situation is similar in Australia today, with different cultures and religions mixing together and the nation's culture and identity changing as a result.

Jesus’ teachings, while initially based on the Jews’ dilemma, are still relevant today, at least for Australians.

^ TOP

Hello,

My Name is Jill Arrington. God gave me a vision for my company logo that includes the mustard tree. I am really interested in seeing what that looks like.

Thanks,

Jill Arrington


^ TOP

When asked about eternal life Jesus affirms the "Teacher" on his understanding that unadulterated love for God is the basic requirement for eternal life. In todays vernacular that would be "Christian". What situation in your life would make you think otherwise?
Len
^ TOP

I read a story years ago in a booklet entitled the "Good News." It said that at some point in history, the people who lived in the area the good Samaritan was from, departed from their homeland. They were led by an old man with a long beard, possibly Ezekial (this might be wrong). However they rolled a large stone with them as they left, and eventually reached England......and today (said this article) the stone they rolled all this long distance now sits HIDDEN UNDERNEATH the throne of the English Queen/King. Was this just my imagination??? Does anyone have any information on this?
^ TOP

Denny,

I really enjoy your musings. I tend to agree with you about most of what you say. I think that makes you a very wise person - in my estimation :)

Humility is not groveling in the dust, calling God a liar. The apostle Paul called that "false humility". True humility is when we agree that God's view and opinion is reality. True humility is when we agree with God who says we are righteous. We WERE sinners but not now.

The parable of the "unprofitable servant", (Luke 17) when taken out of context might, at first blush, seem to be telling us to work hard for God and not expect any words of thanks. But Jesus had just finished telling of the great power that is available to us if we would just believe it. "Lord, increase our faith", prayed the apostles.

If I'm commanding sycamine trees to be uprooted and planted in the sea, then such power might go to my head, don't you think? Jesus warned us to do these great works of God and keep in mind that He is the source of our power.

Far from trying to connect people with a sense of inadequacy, Jesus parable is a warning NOT to let all this power go to our heads. Jesus has all power in heaven and earth and if we are in Him, so do we. If Jesus can walk on water then so can I. The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in me. If Jesus can heal the sick then so can I. If Jesus can raise the dead, so can I. "I can do all things", the apostle said, "through Christ which strengeneth me".

Do all things, small and great and remember always to give God the glory. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths. (Proverbs 3:6) By acknowledging God in all that we do, He keeps us on the strait and narrow. That's a promise I can use.

And the scripture was fulfilled which said, "And Rob and Denny believed God and it was credited to them for righteousness."

God has blessed you with every spiritual blessing in heavenly places. Rest in the peace and joy of the Holy Spirit.

Your brother,
Rob

^ TOP

Well this present kingdom(till JESUS returns and included his reign). The church started off small and now it is big(just like the mustard seed) and there are other religions considered as CHRISTIANDOM which are not and it is up to CHRIST in the end to get rid of the tares among the wheat. These kingdom of heaven parables are not the goody goody thing that everyone thinks they are. You have two groups in this section of Matthew: the multitude(Those with no ears to hear and no eyes to see) and the diciples (who represent GOD's people).The multitude will never understand these parables and JESUS explains them to the diciples how to interpet them in Matt. chapter 13,the parable of the sower. You see the Kingdom (this present day) there are Non believers and satans people (Tares in the wheat) masked by all other christian organization,they are the birds perched in the large mustard tree(the fowl that take the seed in the Sower parable).When Christ comes in his second coming he is going to change all that with his glorious rule in the millineum. You notice the LEAVEN was HID,what is there to hide,our salvation or GOD's great gift to the world I THINK NOT.



^ TOP

A mustard seed should stay an herb,if it becomes as a tree it is not good for seasoning.It has become something it shouldn't be and the birds perch in it looking for an easy meal.
Mustard seed = The Church,GOD's children Birds = satan and his croneies,false teachers
To GOD be the glory.

^ TOP

I agree with your interpretation that the neighbor is the Samaritan, i.e. Jesus.

The dying man trusted the Samaritan and took the Samaritan's help without doubt and hesitation, even though he despised the Samaritan.
In this parable of Good Samaritan, the dying man is ourselves. People should beleive in God humbly like the dying man did.

This Parable of good samaritan tells me that men should humble themselves for believing in God and loving Jesus.


Thanks,

Donna
^ TOP

I just wanted to thankyou Raphael. I had at first misunderstood what it was that you were saying, but in finishing what you had written I was very pleased to see that it was a great confirmation fo the Love that is given us through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Thankyou and God bless you!

Your Brother in Christ,

Christopher
Lynn
Godwin

^ TOP

what are good works? how does one use his abilities to serve the lord? is it selling airplanes to don king? is it selling cars? or insurance? what about the birds that neither sow nor reap nor amass riches? what material things are gained by making 100, 000 per year? how is owning a lexus doing good works? what could people buy with money in 500ad? not computors!!! it is my observation the worlds point of reference is monetary gain and not christian charity. Self aquisitions and personal security above charity to its extreme. Although many interpretations of the parable of ten talents are similar i see common flaw running throughout their illogical analysis. i however have no revelation as to its true meaning. the master expects usury fees and yet christ said if they want ur cloak give ur shirt as well. give without expectation of reward. the first 2 servants are likely to have exploited the needs of the others in order to amass greater riches and leave the masses less wealth. wealth is not created. it only exchanges hands. if someone has more, all the rest have less. i see the servant with 1 talent as taking doing the least harm
^ TOP

The Spirit indwelling an individual occurs at the time of the birth from above ( Cor. 3:16; 6:19 ). The individual is immersed in the Spirit, which places him in" in Christ", making him part of the one new man and Abraham's seed, because Christ is Abraham's seed (cf. Matt 3:11; 1 Cor.12:13; Gal.3:26-29 ).

But the filling of the Spirit is another matter entirely. The filling of the Spirit occures subsequent to the indwelling of the Spirit and may or may not occur in a Christian's life.

The filling of the Spirit is connected with receiving the Word of God, and, at the same time, allowing the indwelling Spirit to lead the individual into all truth. The filling of the Spirit is conected with Christian maturity. The two go hand - in - hand in this respect. From a Biblical standpoint, the more a person matures in the faith the more he can be said to be filled with the Spirit.

Note parallel verses in two companion epistles, Ephesians and Colossians, relative to the filling of the Spirit:

"And be drunk not with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit.
Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord ( Eph. 5:18,19).

" Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord" ( Col. 3:16 ).

In Ephesians , Christians are commanded to be filled with the Spirit; and in the parallel section in Colossians, Christians are commanded to let the Word of Christ dwell in them richly in all wisdom. The latter relates how the former is accomplished.

Thus , the importance of spiritual growth unto maturity in this manner cannot be overemphasized. Spiritual growth unto maturity is inseparably related to the filling of the Spirit, a necessity for Christians if they would be properly prepared for meeting Christ at his judgement seat and attending the marrige festivity.

^ TOP

This passage is offered as a comparison allegory to the coming of Christ. Christ came and gave us a great gift, through Grace, and then "went away on a long journey." Christ will come back. How have we responded to the freedom and power given to us through Jesus Christ? Have we cowered in fear or are actively living out God's will?


^ TOP

What happen to Barabas after Jesus Christ death.
^ TOP

Point #2
(2) Being able to see one another, we see that they must have had bodies that were visible to one another. The rich man could still see, speak (to God), and feel the pain of his torment.

The comment should be "to Abraham" rather that "to God"

Simply another reminder that I am as fallible as the next man.

^ TOP

Dear Beloved Brother / Sister in Christ,

Greetings to you in Jesus Name Amen!

First of all I praise and thank Lord Jesus for giving an opportunity to have beautiful fellowship with your Blessed Ministry by sending this Email. This is pastor pravardhan varma from SOUTH-INDIA. Running a church named by Good Seed Church Ministry since the year 2000.

Good Seed Church Ministry is moving with a vision not only preaching Gospel, but also feeding the destitute street Children with Food, Cloth & Good Education. Most importantly, all of this work is carried out in the name of the Lord, with the result that many are finding Salvation, deliverance and personal healing through faith in Christ.

For this we are in need of your powerful prayers for my country Orphan Children’s. If you are having a vision to work with our Good Seed Church Ministry to spread Gospel for children and people here in INDIA in these End Days, we heartily welcome you to visit India and share gospel here for the people who are in darkness. And win souls for God. We need your ministry Branch here in India.

We are going on prayers to be fulfilled in the name of Jesus Christ Amen. Please pray for us and for my Ministry. Convey my Greets to your family & Staff.


We are waiting to hear favor from you soon as God leads you Amen!

Our Email Address: - info_goodseedchurchministry@yahoo.com

In His Service,
Pastor.Varma & Family.
GOOD SEED CHURCH MINISTRY.
Gospel On Wheels,
South India.


^ TOP

Is it true that when the small mustard seed is planted should grow into a large garden plant instead of a tree....?
^ TOP

Tnx!!! i have an assignment and it is about parables of Jesus... Because of this forum, i can understand it and it is easy to explain in the class!!!Im not a Catholic so i cant understand in the book... TNX Very Much!!! ^_^





^ TOP

can i request a picture of the mustard tree
^ TOP

The sandals represent that the prodigal son was taken back not as a servant or slave but as a son. That goes along with the ring. The servants and slaves did not wear sandals!
^ TOP

Notice the simplicity of this parable. All of us live in a world where we see plants daily. All of those plants come about as a result of a seed falling to the ground and being buried. Have you ever considered that you’re walk with God may equally be as simple? According to Jesus it is that simple.

Ok, What’s the real meaning of this parable? Why would Jesus use this in conjunction with the statement “I will speak things that have not been revealed from the foundations of the earth”. Don’t we all know about seeds? Don’t we all know that seeds will not grow on a kitchen counter? Then what’s the “mystery”, what’s the “secret”? Well whatever it is I’m going to listen. What on earth is God almighty going to say when he has an opportunity to teach? Have you ever thought about that? Jesus’ time was limited and he was not a person to mix words.

In mark chapter four Jesus lays an important foundation that he builds on all throughout the gospels. The seed is the Word of God. The ground is the heart of a man. The word grows in a man’s heart the same way seeds grow in soil. My favorite portion of this scripture is “for the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear”. Do you know what the Greek word for herself is? It’s automatos. Or in our vernacular automatic. The word produces fruit in our hearts automatically. The word automatic means: done without conscious thought or decision of the will (volition). Isn’t that interesting. There is a system that is set up by God whereby we can produce fruit without our even having to work at it or strive. “He knoweth not how”.

Jesus said “ you cannot add one cubit to your stature by taking thought”. Now think about that. Jesus is saying that there is no supernatural power in the thinking process. Might Jesus also be saying that there is a power to change the stature, which entails not thinking about it? Were dealing with the power of Gods word. I’ll admit that very few people have tapped into that power, but for Jesus to say that he will reveal things that have been kept secret from the foundations of the earth; is he talking about the wheel? Or maybe magnetism? No, he’s talking about miracles! A man of this caliber doesn’t lead people on to say something ludicrous. Unfortunately some people will never have “ears to hear” what Jesus was really talking about-the ability to transport something from the spiritual realm to the physical realm-a miracle, and according to Jesus it’s as easy as planting a seed.

Why don’t we then see more miracles? Well as simple as God made it, there is an adversary that forever confronts us in the growing time of this plant of faith. (That’s what were actually doing-cultivating faith). And subsequently these dark spirits typified by the fowls of the air attempt to devour that seed. If were not resolute to “hold fast” that seed for the duration of the cycle, all will be aborted and the glorious reality’s of Gods word will never materialize.

If you realize what’s at stake here you can see why Satan is going to attack with full fury the use of the principles of this parable. Because:
#1. He’s going to sit idly by as you “bring forth fruit” unto Gods Kingdom (if done right there is nothing he can do). And
# 2. He’ll watch his kingdom be systematically dismantled by the believer who understands this principle.

All in all, it’s good news for God and bad news for the adversary.

Just remember that Jesus is talking about miracles, and the person who gets a handle on the teachings of the kingdom will have a real tiger by the tail.

^ TOP

Gospels V. Letters the bible, as we know it today, was compiled by the Roman Catholic Church in the 11th and 12th century by religious counsels, this Latin bible was then translated to English by a counsel authorized by King James of England. Why are the Letters treated with the same amount of authority (law) as the Gospels? The Letters seem to be just that letters from one church leader to another about contemporary problems of the day with their specific churches in the fist century, the Gospels seem to hold the actual philosophy and religiosity of Christ, or how Christ wants us to act.
^ TOP

The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed,
which a man took, and sowed in his field:
Which indeed is the least of all seeds:
but when it is grown,
it is the greatest among herbs,
and becometh a tree,
so that the birds of the air come
and lodge in the branches thereof.

heaven = mustard seed.
mustard seed = a tiny tiny seed.
mustard seed = a herb.
least of all seeds = a tiny tiny seed.
But when a mustard seeds grows it becomes the greatest among herbs.

The Kingdom of heaven started with a few Jews getting in to the
marriage, then the rest rejected him and killed the prophets, so he
sent his son and they killed him also, So he sent his servants
which are us Christians to go into the streets & invite everybody
who would come into his Kingdom for the wedding.

The growth of the tree doesn't represent a monstrosity!

^ TOP

The moral of the parable is plainly expressed in verse 35. "So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses" (Matthew 18:35). The forgiveness by God of which children of God are recipients must be demonstrated by them toward their fellows.

The immensity of the debt does not hinder God's full and free pardon (Isa. 1:18; 55:7). God will save the chief of sinners (1 Tim. 1:15). No one is beyond forgiveness; it makes little difference as to how many, how big, and how long one's sins have reached.25

God, then, teaches us how to forgive. Finally,

. . . this parable is striking and impressive because of its acute contrasts. First, there is the contrast of Peter's number and the Lord's. Peter was willing to forgive several times, but the Lord said to forgive to infinity. Second, there is the contrast of the two debts. One was a trifling sum, the other was unpayable
^ TOP

I simply believe it is a tool to prophecy his ressurrection. Note the punchline - If they don't believe Moses they won't believe if someone rises from the dead.
^ TOP

Some of us possess stronger ability to share God's grace, or our faith with others. Someone called to the ministry may be able to share the word of God more freely and to more people (i.e. possesses 5 talents). A deacon or a Sunday school teacher may be able to share the word effectively with a few people (i.e. possesses 2 talents). But someone who accepts Christ but makes no effort to share their faith and the grace of God, is like someone who buries their faith within themselves. Being too afraid to share the good news. Yes God does not need our help to save man, he could do all on his own if he so chooses (i.e. reaps where he did not sow, gathers where he scattered no seed). But God asks us to acknowledge him to man. To share the good news. This is our Talent, using whatever ability we have to share Him; not necessarily maximizing the use of our gifted profession.
^ TOP

Those who hear and understand the parables are of God, those who don't are not of God. Jesus said that. Also warned in proverbs 30:5 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. 6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar." That is a really bad thing to be found as too. Proverbs 6:16 These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood," What happens to liars? Proverbs 6:19 - A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren." Proverbs 19:5 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape." Proverbs 19:9 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies SHALL PERISH."
^ TOP

Sir,

If you would like a picture of an aged mustard tree, I can email the jpg to you.

Regards,
Deborah
^ TOP

I'll just quote a sentence from this mail then put my oppinion....

In this view, who would Gods mercy fall favor on in salvation?

My oppinion...............God looks apon the heart............people miss the point of this story, because they look at it through their eyes, and through their justification, so ofcourse those that are poor and suffer are more worthy than those who dont, God said their is none righteous no not one, rich people will go to hell exactly the same as poor people, we can sympathize with the poor but it is only aggreeing that envy has a place in Gods kingdom it doesnt............Jesus could have told the same story in reverse because gauranteed he knows one poor man that is going to Hell and one rich man that is not, but that would have not had the same appeal to our views on justification, we have to be led to the truth, line upon line precept on precept............. tell me when they shouted crucify him to pilate, were there more rich than poor? When Jesus said you seek me because your bellies were filled, ie they followed him fore the bread, and said Abraham was their father, and he said if Abraham was your father you would Love me................are these poor going to heaven?...............God looks upon the heart, it doesnt matter if youve lived the best life ie rich, or the worst life ie begger............circumstances wont change your heart, rich or poor if you have no love for God you have no love for God............10 lepers got healed only 1 came back to thank God........... I believe this story is not about rich vs poor it is about the heart of Lazurus and he had a heart for God ..................and it is a story of the Beauty of God because he is no respecter of persons.
^ TOP

The Bible is its own interpreter. Rightly divide the word by taking proper consideration of other scriptures that provide the total picture of its true meaning. Maybe the key to the passage is found in verse 29:

"For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an
abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will will be taken from him."

Jesus used these very same words in the parable of the sower in Matthew 13:12. And we know from that parable that the seed sown is the WORD OF GOD, the MESSAGE ABOUT THE KINGDOM (verses 18-23). Is the 'seed sown' and the 'talent entrusted' the same thing? I think so.
Both parables are about bringing increase to the knowledge of God in your life by acting on it--putting it to work. In fact we have an obligation to do so. Do other scriptures refer to knowledge being like money or something of value being given to us?

"What you HEARD from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Gaurd the good DEPOSIT that was ENTRUSTED TO YOU..."
(2 Timothy 1:13,14).

"...that they may have the full RICHES of complete UNDERSTANDING (knowledge), in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely Christ, in whom are hidden all the TREASURES of wisdom and KNOWLEDGE" (Colossians 2:2, 3).

How would you bring increase to an amount of money entrusted to you?--put it to work--do something with it. Keeping it hidden in an old mattress won't bring any increase and your master will be disappointed with you. The very LEAST you could do is entrust it to someone else, like a bank, who would then put it to work and bring increase to it. They get the increase and you receive a pittance. The greatest return is realized when YOU put it to work (open a business, etc...). It's the same with the kingdom of God. There is a big difference between living out the will of God and sharing that knowledge with someone else.

Anyone who does not act on and retain the word of God--like hiding a talent in the ground or having the ravens snatch the seed away--will lose that knowledge and its eternal benefit, condemning themselves to the wrath of the one who gave it.

"...since they did not think it worthwhile to RETAIN the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind...(Romans 1:21, 28). "...darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance (lack of knowledge) that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts" (Eph. 4:18).

"That servant who knows his master's will and DOES NOT GET READY or DOES NOT DO what his master wants will be beaten with many blows...From everyone who has been given much, much will be damanded; and from the one who has been
entrusted much, much more will be asked". (Luke 12:47,48b)

All the rewards and benefits of good stewardship will go to the faithful:

"...do not throw away your confidence; it will be RICHLY REWARDED. You need to persevere so that when you have DONE THE WILL OF GOD, you will receive what he has promised" (Heb. 10:35, 36).

What are you going to do with the word of God?--discard it, or use it wisely by acting on it, bringing increase to it. It's a matter of turning a seed of knowledge into the visible, ripe fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22,23) or putting the riches of God's truth to work insuring your future, eternal security. You decide.

"Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent, and humbly ACCEPT THE WORD PLANTED IN YOU, which can save you. Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. DO WHAT IT SAYS." (James 1:22).

"Not everyone who says to me 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but ONLY HE WHO DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER who is in heaven...Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and PUTS THEM INTO PRACTICE is like a wise man who built his house on the rock...But everyone who hears these words of mine and DOES NOT PUT THEM INTO PRACTICE is like a foolish man who built his house on sand"
(Matt. 7:21, 24, 26).

What are YOU doing with the knowledge of God's will? Will you bury it, or act on it? Which one will bring praise from God on 'that day'?

"..find out what pleases the Lord...do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is" (Eph. 5:10, 17)

^ TOP

reverend father,
i am a 4th year theology seminarian from st.mary's theologate i would like to secure a copy of your sermon on "good shepherd" for my homily guide regarding the same subject....tnx
^ TOP