In the earlier parables, Jesus left people wondering what he meant. In the latter parables, Jesus was often very direct. For example, in Matthew 21:33-46, Jesus spoke a parable directly against the leaders of the Temple in Jerusalem. They had no problem understanding the parable, but they trapped themselves by their reaction to it. We too need to be careful not to fall into the same trap.
The proclamation of the King’s word provokes two opposite responses.
One of the most controversial sections of James is James 2:14-26, because some verses sounds very different from what we find in Paul’s teaching....
The chief priest could not control his wicked sons, so God removed them all and raised up the one who could intercede between humans...