The Nature of the Kingdom
The Nature of the Kingdom3
Within Christianity There Is Great Mixture
By T. Austin-Sparks0MAT 13:31T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the complexities within Christianity, using the parable of the mustard seed to illustrate how the Kingdom of Heaven, while starting small, has grown to encompass a mixture of good and evil. He warns that many who hear the teachings of Jesus may not grasp their deeper meanings, leading to misinterpretations of the parables. Sparks highlights the importance of discernment among believers, as the presence of 'birds'—representing evil—within the 'tree' of Christianity can lead to confusion and disappointment. He encourages Christians to seek understanding and not be surprised by the mixture of good and bad within the faith community, as Jesus foretold these challenges. Ultimately, he reassures that God will separate the good from the bad at the end of the age.
Matthew 11
By John Nelson Darby0ISA 61:1MAT 11:2MAT 11:11MAT 11:25LUK 4:18JHN 1:18ROM 10:12EPH 2:8John Nelson Darby expounds on Matthew 11, illustrating the definitive judgment of Israel and the contrasting responses to Jesus' ministry. He highlights John the Baptist's inquiry about Jesus' identity, emphasizing the need for faith to recognize the true nature of the Messiah amidst His humble appearance. Darby explains that the kingdom of God was being preached, requiring a violent faith to enter, as the proud rejected the grace offered by Jesus. He underscores the importance of submission to God's will, as exemplified by Christ, who calls the weary to find rest in Him. Ultimately, the sermon reveals the profound grace of God that extends beyond Israel to all who seek Him, regardless of their background.
The Parable of the Leavened Meal
By G. Campbell Morgan0G. Campbell Morgan explores the Parable of the Leavened Meal, presenting two interpretations: one that views leaven as a symbol of the Kingdom of Heaven, and another that sees it as a representation of evil corrupting the Kingdom's testimony. He argues that the latter interpretation aligns with the consistent biblical symbolism of leaven as a corrupting influence, emphasizing that the Kingdom's influence in this age is marked by a mixture of good and evil. Morgan highlights the importance of maintaining purity in the Church's testimony and warns against the dangers of hypocrisy, rationalism, and materialism that weaken the Church's influence. Ultimately, he asserts that the parable serves as a reminder of the need for separation from corrupting influences to effectively represent the Kingdom of God.