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Being Part of a Kingdom Parable

Posted by COGI on Thursday, February 16th, 2012

The “kingdom of God” parables reveal an important element for evangelism or spreading the word about how we’re supposed to live. If we look at several parables mentioned in Matthew 13 we see they feature the ACTIONS of an individual man and woman or a collective “they.” It’s what men and women do as they come in contact with the “living by the kingdom rules…now.” Some responses are more involved than others, but in each, the ultimate outcome depends on what is done personally or collectively. Let’s take a quick look:

  • Verse 24: “The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sows….”
  • Verse 33: “The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took…”
  • Verse 47: “The kingdom of heaven is like a net…which when it was full they drew to shore….”

We are frequently asked, “What can I do to get the word out in my family or community.” There’s no single answer other than to do what you are gifted to do. And frankly, some are more gifted than others. In some cases, it may be no more complicated than making “the good news” available. One of our ministers recently related this story. He talked about a conscientious member who received our weekly sermon tapes. This man decided to play them where he worked, so that everyone coming or going would hear them. He thought it would be better to have everyone listening to sermons rather than all the confusing and oftentimes irritating music that we’re all incessantly exposed to. Now, many weeks later, there are 20 or so men who have become interested in some aspect of “the truth.”

If we were to put this in a modern day parable it might go like this: “The kingdom of God is likened to a man who took his CDs and … [you fill in the rest].” Among so many possibilities, God has determined to have His way of life promulgated through the efforts and example of men, women, and “they.” What we do individually and collectively is a means to an end. In a sense, you are part of a kingdom of God parable. Just imagine what it says about you.

                                                                                                                        Charles E. Groce


Category: Blog Post

Comments

  • Posted by Nancy W on February 18th, 2012 at 2:12 p.m.
    Well said! Even when we are not gifted with dramatic opportunities or seemingly special talents, we still have the opportunity to "preach" the gospel - by our words, by our actions, by sincere caring and (maybe) by playing CDs in the work place. That leaves no room for me to make excuses like "I'm too poor, old, busy, tired, etc." to do anything.