There is a popular expression that says "seeing is believing." However, many people saw the amazing signs performed by Jesus and did not believe in him. In two separate incidents recorded in John 4:43-5:18, Jesus performed signs of healing, but few believed in him. One politically connected man did believe while the religious leaders did not. He became a model of faith, while they became a warning about the dangers of man-made religion. (full sermon notes)
Christians need to learn to speak with joy, listen with discernment, and grow in grace.
Although we work for the growth of the kingdom, it grows mysteriously in ways that we cannot understand or control.
This first parable from Matthew provides the key to understanding all the parables and to entering the kingdom of God.
