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Parables of Matthew 13 (Part Four): The Parable of the Mustard Seed
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsThe Mustard Seed parable is commonly interpreted as an illustration of church growth. However, rightly dividing the word of truth shows a sobering reality.
God's Kingdom in the Parables (Part Two): Tares, Mustard Seed, and Leaven
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeIn the Parables of the Wheat and the Tares, the Mustard Seed, and the Leaven, Jesus was speaking to the physical nation, which the parables clearly reflect.
Parables of Matthew 13 (Part 1): The Mustard Seed
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Bible, in both parables and prophecies, interprets itself and remains consistent in its use of symbols. We cannot arbitrarily attach meaning to symbols.
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.
Parables of Matthew 13 (Part One): Introduction
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsMatthew 13 contains more parables than any other chapter in the Gospels. They are related in theme and organized to teach Christians specific lessons.
The Parables of Matthew 13 (Part Five): The Parable of the Leaven
Bible Study by Martin G. CollinsMost commentators see this parable as a positive message of the growth of the church. However, deeper study shows that they have it exactly backward!
God's Kingdom in the Parables (Part Three): Hidden Treasure
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeIn Matthew 13, the hidden treasure the man finds provides the spiritual solution to the leaven - corruption - the woman hides in the three measures of meal.
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.
God's Kingdom in the Parables (Part Four): The Pearl, the Dragnet, and the Householder
'Prophecy Watch' by David C. GrabbeJesus' parables of the Pearl of Great Price, the Dragnet, and the Householder resolve the problems raised in their corresponding earlier parables.
A Seed of Highest Quality
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod calls Israel a seed of highest quality, but she turned into a degenerate vine, bearing bitter fruit, rejecting God and relying on her own resources.
Dominion and Leaven (Part One)
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeDominion theology holds that the church's responsibility is to spread God's Kingdom around the world, but it misunderstands the Parable of Leaven.
Dominion and Leaven (Part Two)
Sermonette by David C. GrabbeContrary to Dominion Theology, the Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven are not about the church but describe the history and condition of Israel.
Matthew (Part Eighteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughIf we ask God for protection from demonic influence, we cannot sit back passively; Satan always counterattacks. Evil must be displaced with good.
Why Many Do Not Understand
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBiblical truth cannot be discerned by human intellect alone, but must be spiritually discerned. God has hidden spiritual truth from the majority for now.
God Expects a Return on His Investment (Part Two)
Sermon by David F. MaasGod's promises to give us the desires of our hearts, His Holy Spirit, wisdom, and spiritual gifts to edify the Body all come with strings attached.