It is easy to miss something right in front of us when we are looking for something else. Many people missed Jesus, because they were looking for a different kind of kingdom than the one Jesus came to establish. Specifically, they were expecting immediate judgment on sinners, but Jesus surprised everyone by associating with sinners and then dying for them. Following the Parable of the Sower are three other parables in Matthew 13:24-43. Together they emphasize that judgment is coming, but not yet. First the Kingdom of God must fill the whole earth.
Through two visions, two visits, and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit, Peter learned that Christ's work removed the barriers between Jews and...
God is free to define Israel, to show mercy or wrath, and to add to Israel from the nations.
God's presence in the early church produced awesome acts of community giving and healing but also an awesome judgment against hypocrisy and deception.
