God's Kingdom in the Parables (Part One): Sower and Seed
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeThe 'kingdom of heaven' is commonly interpreted to describe the church, but in the first four parables of Matthew 13, it has a clearer application: Israel.
Seeking the King
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeIt is common to focus on what the King gives and does, at the expense of what the King desires and requires, emphasizing God's grace over obligation.
Parables of Matthew 13 (Part 2): Leaven
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Kingdom of God or of Heaven has past, present, and future aspects. The Kingdom parables primarily provide instruction for the present aspect.
The Rest of the Sign of Jonah
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeJonah likely drowned; the great fish was his coffin rather than his prison. While Nineveh repented and was spared, Judah did not repent when Christ preached.