Windows and Mirrors

<p>Key Points</p><p>Parables are stories Jesus “throws alongside” everyday life to reveal spiritual truth.</p><p>Every parable should be framed with a window (into the heart of God and the secrets of the Kingdom) and a mirror (into the condition of our own heart).</p><p>The secrets of the Kingdom are given to those who follow Jesus; hardness of heart keeps others from seeing and hearing.</p><p>The condition of the soil (our heart) determines whether the Word produces lasting fruit.</p><p>The Kingdom grows quietly and often invisibly (like a mustard seed or leaven) from the inside out.</p><p>Weeds and wheat grow together until the final harvest; God is patient and we are not the reapers.</p><p>The Kingdom is a treasure worth selling everything to obtain. It brings great joy.</p><p><br></p><p>Discussion</p><p>Pastor Bob said every parable should be viewed through a window and a mirror. What window into God’s heart or the Kingdom did you see most clearly in these parables?</p><p>Which of the four soils in the Parable of the Sower most challenges you right now, and why?</p><p>Jesus said the secrets of the Kingdom are given to His disciples. How does that truth affect the way you approach Scripture and teaching?</p><p>The Parable of the Weeds teaches that wheat and weeds grow together until the harvest. How does this help you stay patient with difficult people or situations?</p><p>The mustard seed and the leaven both start small and work from the inside. Where is God currently working in quiet, almost invisible ways in your life?</p><p>In the parables of the Treasure and the Pearl, both men sold everything with joy. What would it look like for you to value the Kingdom that highly?</p><p>Jesus asked, “Have you understood all these things?” What is one truth from this message that you sense the Holy Spirit wants you to apply this week?</p>