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God's Kingdom in the Parables (Part Four): The Pearl, the Dragnet, and the Householder
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeThe Kingdom of God, in its mysteries, reveals the profound nature of God's dominion through the parables Jesus taught. These parables illustrate the Kingdom's humble beginnings and immense growth, as seen in the Parable of the Mustard Seed, where a tiny seed grows into a large plant, symbolizing the expansion from Abraham's faith into a mighty multitude. Yet, this growth is marred by spiritual uncleanness, with birds representing satan and demons nesting in its branches, reflecting the corrupted state of the nation during Jesus' time. In contrast, the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price portrays the Kingdom as a singular, precious gem of supreme value, sought by a merchant who sacrifices everything to possess it. This merchant represents Jesus Christ, who relinquished His divine position and sacrificed His life to purchase a spiritual nation defined by the faith of Abraham—a faith that is a divine gift. This parable emphasizes the purity and worth of the spiritual Family, unlike the physical nation's uncleanness shown in the Mustard Seed. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure further unveils the mystery, depicting Christ purchasing the entire world for the small, hidden faith God placed within it. While the Hidden Treasure highlights faith in individuals, the Pearl underscores the collective beauty and value of faith working in unison within the spiritual nation. This spiritual nation, the church, is prophesied to receive the Kingdom, as its value lies in the active faith Christ so dearly cherishes. Additionally, the Parable of the Dragnet reveals the inclusive nature of the Kingdom's call through the gospel, gathering all kinds without distinction of race or ethnicity. Yet, it warns of a future sorting at the end of the age, where God judges not merely by acceptance of Christ's sacrifice but by growth and spiritual health. Understanding these mysteries requires a divine gift, as Jesus notes that only those with spiritually healed hearts can comprehend the Word of the Kingdom. Finally, the responsibility of those instructed in the Kingdom's mysteries is highlighted in the parable of the scribe, who, as a disciple, brings forth treasures both old and new from a God-given understanding. This reflects the duty to teach and uphold the truth of God's dominion, maintaining the intent of past instructions while applying them with renewed clarity, as Christ fulfilled the law in His life. Thus, the mysteries of the Kingdom unveil God's work in building a spiritual nation through faith, intervention, and ultimate redemption.
I Love a Mystery
Sermonette by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Eighth Day focuses upon the Rivers of Living Waters, signifying God's Holy Spirit flowing from the resurrected saints, unlocking previously secret things.
Is God's Way Simple?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughJust because something is simple does not make it true and just because something is complex does not make it false. Deeper knowledge often comes with complexity.

Why Are We Here and What Is Our Focus?
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod has a plan to bring all to Christ, but each in his own order. We cannot have a proper understanding of the plan if we do not keep Christ as the focus.
Born Again (Part 4)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The gestation or fetus analogy does not adequately depict the sanctification process in which there has to be volition, judgment, and conscious choice.
Born Again (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We have been adopted into the family of God and have become members of God's Kingdom. The Kingdom is here in the same way the church is a spiritual entity.
The Purpose of the Church
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe function of the church is like a teacher's college, preparing the firstfruits and providing them with the needed education and character development.
Letters to Seven Churches (Part Three): Smyrna
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughChrist prepared the members of Smyrna for martyrdom, promising them eternal glory for enduring a relatively short time, looking at things from a hopeful perspective.
Man's Greatest Challenge (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIt is almost impossible to make sense out of this world if we try to process the voluminous information available in these days of exploding knowledge.