A constant problem for the reputation of the church is the presence of persons who claim to be believers but deny the faith with their lives. This problem is not new. In fact, in John 8:30-59, Jesus had an extended argument with some who had believed in him but ended up wanting to kill him. Their lives showed that God was not their father, no matter what they said. Ever since then, there have been many so-called Christians who follow their own wills rather than Jesus' words. Let's make sure we are not among their number. (sermon notes)
Jesus combined a warning of judgment with a demonstration of the liberating power of the kingdom of God.
An overview of the history of redemption, from Genesis to Revelation in four acts
Four short parables point to the surpassing value of the kingdom of God and the need to find it now.
