Devotionals
The Kingdom Series Parable 1
Topic: The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed
Scriptural references:
He told them another parable: The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches. Matthew 13:31-32
(Other references: Isaiah 9:7; Isaiah 2:2; Micah 4:1; John 12:24; Matthew 28: 19-20)
Sermon:
Today we start a series on the Kingdom. We kick start with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed”. In Matthew 13:31-32, our Lord Jesus Christ described the Kingdom to be like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and planted in his field. The parable shows the scalability of the Kingdom of God. The man symbolizes God while the mustard seed symbolizes the Kingdom. Jesus said, "…. though it is the smallest of all seeds, when it grows, it becomes the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree that accommodates birds". Beloved, the Kingdom of GOD is ever growing and expanding. The body of Christ which is also a part of the Kingdom is also ever growing and increasing.
Prophet Isaiah prophesied about Christ and said - "Of the increase of his government and peace, there shall be no end, on the throne of David, and on his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from now on even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this" (Isaiah 9:7). Beloved, that is what we are seeing in this end time. GOD is expanding his church. He is increasing his kingdom. Prophet Isaiah and Prophet Micah saw it and both of them said - And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow to it (Isaiah 2:2, Micah 4:1). They both received the same message in the Spirit and prophesied the same thing. It's a confirmation, a two edged sword. Glory be to God!!! Church, believe it or not, the prophecies are happening now. There has never been anything like it before. There is a great revival going on across the nations of the world. People are trooping into the house of the LORD like never before. Beloved, it is happening now. Open your eyes and see what is happening; and awake and be part of it. GOD is moving.
That seed-like kingdom that our Lord Jesus Christ planted has now grown so big. He yielded his body to the Jews and roman soldiers. They killed him and He was buried but on the third day He arose. Can I tell you something? Do want to hear it? This is it if you can receive it - That seed-like kingdom that was planted is the body of Christ and From the day Jesus arose, up till this day, the body of Christ has been expanding and increasing and people have been flowing into it. Jesus also used the term "grain of wheat" to explain this and the multiplication effect caused by his death in John 12:24. Glory! Hallelujah!!!!
Beloved, allow me end this sermon by reminding you of the great commission and to encourage you to be a part of it. The great commission can be found in Matthew 28:19-20.
It says - Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen.
As you volunteer and make yourself available, GOD will use you to expand his kingdom and to spread his kingdom influence in Jesus name (Amen). If you believe, shout, JESUS is LORD! Glory be to GOD!!
Prayer: Father GOD, Whatever you are doing in this season, don't it without me. Use me to expand your kingdom influence on the surface of the earth. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name.
The Kingdom Series Parable 2
Topic: The Kingdom like a leaven
Scriptural reference:
Another parable spoke he to them; The kingdom of heaven is likened to leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened - Matthew 13:33
(Other references: Hebrews 6:4-5; 1 John 3:2; Proverbs 4:18)
Sermon:
Today we are going to continue with the Kingdom series. Yesterday, we kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed”. Today, we are looking at the second part titled, "The Kingdom like a leaven". In Matthew 13:33, our LORD Jesus Christ likened the Kingdom of heaven to a leaven which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened. This is a deep mystery but I will explain it by revelation.
Now, the woman symbolizes GOD. The meal symbolizes man while the three measures of meal symbolizes the body, the soul and the spirit of man. The leaven which he likens to the Kingdom is the divine life of GOD. It is a combination of the gifts and fruit of the Holy Spirit, the word of God and the power of God which is the power of the age to come (see Hebrews 6:4-5).
To explain this mystery further, let us look at the scenario of a man who just got saved. Immediately, He got saved, the life of GOD goes into his heart which is his spirit man. But the man would need to meditate on the word of GOD continuously to get his soul renewed on a daily basis. As he does this, the life of GOD becomes evident in his soul. His character is formed and he becomes Christ-like. He begins to manifest the fruit of the Spirit namely; temperance, peace, faithfulness, love, joy, kindness, meekness, patience and goodness. Then as he continues to walk in the Lord, the life of GOD becomes evident in his body. He begins to manifest the power of God. People can get healed when they touch him or when he touches them. His face reflects the glory of GOD like it happened to Prophet Moses and Stephen the Martyr. And if he continues to serve GOD and walk with GOD when the raptures takes place, his entire body would become immortal like the body of Jesus, our Lord (1 John 3:2) and at this point, his body, soul and spirit would be said to be perfect.
Proverbs 4:18 declares that - the light of the just is like a shining light that shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. This scripture combined with the other two scriptures explains the hope of every believer, that on the perfect day, the redeemed man would see the LORD, would put on perfect immortal bodies and would become perfect like Christ. Jesus would reign on earth for 1000 years. The Kingdom of the earth would become our LORD's, the present earth and present heaven would pass away; and there would be a united "new heaven and a new earth" ruled by GOD. Earth would be an annex of Heaven. The LORD would be it's sun and the whole earth would be full of the glory and power of GOD. Glory! Le somebody shout, Hallelujah! Glory be to God.
Prayer: Father GOD, I desire to be more like you. Purify me and transform my entire being (body, soul, spirit) to be like you. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name (Amen).
The Kingdom Series, Parable 3
Topic: The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field
Scriptural references:
The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field - Matthew 13:44
(Other references: Hebrews 12:2; 2 Corinthians 5:15; Matthew 6:33)
Sermon:
Today we are going to continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed followed by part two which was titled, "The Kingdom like a Leaven". Today we are going to look at the third part which is titled, "The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". In Matthew 13:44, our LORD Jesus Christ described the Kingdom to be like a treasure which a man discovered in a field and went to sell all he had in order to buy the field. Beloved, this parable shows that God’s Kingdom is of high importance. Therefore it should be treasured and given first priority (Matthew 6:33). This parable has to do with Christ, the church and the price He paid in order to redeem us. The man in the story symbolizes the Lord while the treasure symbolizes the Kingdom which is of course made up of souls of men and the church. Our LORD Jesus valued the salvation of our souls (and the church) so much that He gave his own dear life in order to redeem us. He paid the ultimate price of dying for us and shedding his blood in order to buy us. Hebrews 12:2 says, “looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame and is now seated at the right hand of GOD”. Jesus suffered for us and gave himself for us. Our souls are no longer the property of the devil. We are now the property of him who died for us, bought us with his blood and translated us from the Kingdom of darkness into his own Kingdom of light. Beloved, Jesus is the man who gave his all in order to buy the field. He gave his own life to buy us from slavery and sin. He was excited about the salvation plan and He gave his all in order to buy our souls. Hallelujah! The salvation plan was hidden from the devil. If the devil had known, He wouldn't have plotted to kill Jesus. Our LORD had to give his life in order to achieve the plan. Glory be to GOD!
Now, that you have been saved by the Lord, it is the will of the Lord that you do not see your life as your own but as a property of the one who died for you and gave his all for you. For it is written, “And he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.” (2 Corinthians 5:15). Therefore, endeavour to live for the Lord and for the purpose for which He created you and for which He saved you.
Prayer: Everlasting Father, thank you for giving your life to purchase my soul. Give me the grace to live for you and for the purpose for which you created me and for which you saved me. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name (Amen).
The Kingdom Series, Parable 4
Topic: The Kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls
Scriptural reference
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it (Matthew 13:45).
(Other references: 2 Corinthians 5:15; Matthew 16:26; Luke 15:1-7; Matthew 18:12; Philippians 2:5-8; 1 John 3:16)
Sermon :
Today, we continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed” followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Today, we are going to look at part 4 which I titled, “the kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls. In Matthew 13:45, our LORD Jesus Christ likened the kingdom to a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
This parable shows the importance of the soul of man to the LORD. The merchant in the story is our LORD Jesus Christ while the pearl symbolizes the Kingdom which is of course made up of souls of men and the church. The message is entirely about the salvation of the soul of man.
In Matthew 16:26, Jesus said, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?” and in Luke 15:1-7 (and Matthew 18:12), He shared the parable of the lost sheep of how a man left ninety-nine sheep and went after the missing sheep; and when he has found it, he called his friends and neighbours to celebrate the sheep he recovered. This two scenarios show the importance of the soul of a man.
Beloved, the soul of a man is of great importance. Therefore it should be highly valued. Our LORD Jesus valued our souls so much that He gave his own dear life in order to redeem us from the devil. He paid the ultimate price of dying for us and shedding his blood in order to buy us. Philippians 2:5-8 says, “Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross”. Even though Jesus was GOD right from the beginning, He left his throne in heaven, became a nobody here on earth and gave up his dear life in order to save mankind. He valued our souls so much that He gave his all in order to buy our souls. Hallelujah! Glory be to GOD!
The Lord indeed gave his all to save you, and he wants you to reciprocate the same love by giving your all to him and for the course of love and of the kingdom. For it is written, “And he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.” (2 Corinthians 5:15). For it is also written that, “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers” (1 John 3:16).
Prayer: Everlasting Father, thank you for treasuring my soul so much that you gave your all in order to purchase my soul. Grant me the enablement to live for you and for the purpose for which you saved me. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name (Amen).
The Kingdom Series, Parable 5
Topic: The Kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish
Scriptural reference:
Again, the kingdom of heaven is likened to a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered fishes of every kind – Matthew 13:47
(Other references: Matthew 4:19 and Mark 1:17, Matthew 28:19-20; Proverbs 11:30b).
Sermon:
Today, we continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed” followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Then part four which was titled, “The kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls”.
Today, we are going to look at part 5 which I titled, “The kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish. In Matthew 13:47, our LORD Jesus Christ likened the kingdom to a net that was cast into the sea, and gathered every kind of fish. The net symbolizes the body of christ which was birthed on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit invaded earth and has ever since been gathering people from every tongue and tribe. The fishes are the people. In Matthew 4:19 and Mark 1:17, Jesus spoke to Simon Peter and his brother Andrew saying, “…. Follow me and I will make you fishers of men”. And He did just that. He made them soul winners. The disciples of Christ in the early won souls for the kingdom and the kingdom of God expanded and has been expanding ever since then.
Beloved, the task of winning souls have been given to Christians all over the world and we have been sent to preach to every tongue and tribe. The great commission from Jesus in Matthew 28:19-20 says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen”. And Proverbs 11:30b also says, “He who win souls is wise”. So therefore make up your mind today and determine that you would go out and win souls for the Lord and disciple them. The Lord desires that you would be a fisher of men that would win souls for his Kingdom. If you would do just that, say – Amen!
Prayer: Father GOD, give me the grace to wins souls for your kingdom. Use me to expand your kingdom on the earth. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name.
The Kingdom Series, Parable 6
Topic: The Kingdom like a certain king taking account of his servants
Scriptural references:
Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened to a certain king, which would take account of his servants …….. (Matthew 18:23-35)
(Other references: Matthew 6:12 ; Matthew 5:7; Hebrews 12:14; Romans 14:17; Matthew 18:22)
Sermon:
Today, we continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed” followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Then part four which was titled, “the kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls”. Then part five which titled, “The kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish”.
Today, we are looking at part six which I titled, “The kingdom like a certain king taking account of his servants. In Matthew 18:23, our LORD Jesus Christ likened the kingdom of heaven to a certain king, who took account of his servants. The King symbolizes God while the servants symbolizes believers. He told the parable from Matthew 18:23-35, with emphasis on forgiveness and mercy. He shared a story of a King who forgave one of his servants and expected that the servant would forgive others like he has done but the servant did not. So He decided to punish the servant. This story is in line with the beatitude that says, “Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7) and part of the Lord’s prayer that says, “ forgive us our debts as we forgive those who trespass against us” (Matthew 6:12). The main emphasis of the message is that: 1. Every follower of God should forgive those who offend him or her, so that he or she would also be forgiven by the Lord . 2. If God has forgiven you, then you should reciprocate the same act of kindness by forgiving those who offend you.
Walking in mercy and forgiveness are righteous acts and acts of peace. The scriptures in Hebrews 12:14 instructed us to, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord”. It is compulsory to walk in mercy and forgiveness, which are acts of peace if you want to see the Lord. Another thing you must note is that the Kingdom of God is full of righteousness, peace and joy. If there is no righteousness, peace and joy in your life, the tangible presence of the Lord is absent. God only dwells in an atmosphere of righteousness, peace and joy. For the kingdom of God is ……. righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost (Romans 14:17). So, if you are a seeker of God’s kingdom, you must learn to be merciful and forgiving in nature. Let it be your lifestyle. Forgive people ahead of time because people would surely offend you. Our Lord Jesus Christ said in Matthew 18:22 that you should forgive people seventy times seven, just to show that you should always forgive those who offend you. I pray for you, that as you walk in mercy and forgiveness, you will obtain mercy and favour, goodness and mercy would be following you everywhere you go, the heavens would be opened over you and your life shall be brighter than the noon day and your light shall be as bright as the morning in Jesus name (Amen).
Prayer: Father GOD, give me the grace to be just and upright like you are; and the grace to be merciful and forgiving as you are. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name (Amen).
The Kingdom Series, Parable 7
Topic: The Kingdom like a householder who hired more labourers
Scriptural references:
For the kingdom of heaven is likened to a man that is an householder, who went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard .... (Matthew 20:1-16)
(Other references: Romans 2:11; Acts 10:34; 1 Samuel 30:24; Psalm 135:6; Psalm 115:3; Ephesians 4:3-4)
Sermon:
Today, we continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed” followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Then part four which was titled, “the kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls”. Then part five which I titled, “The kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish”. Then part six which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king taking account of his servants”
Today, we are looking at part 7 which I titled, “The Kingdom like a householder who hired more labourers”. In Matthew 20:1, our Lord Jesus Christ likened the kingdom of heaven to a man that is an householder, who went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. The householder symbolizes Christ and the labourers symbolizes servants of the Lord. Jesus shared the story from Matthew 20:1-16. He narrated how the householder hired servants at different periods of the day but at the end of the day, he paid them the same wage. Firstly, this story goes to show that God is not a respecter of persons. He sees everyone as equal. He is not partial. He does not discriminate.This agrees with the scriptures that says that there is no respect of persons with God (Romans 2:11; Acts 10:34). Secondly, the story also shows that the Lord is sovereign in nature (Psalm 135:6; Psalm 115:3). He can do whatever He wills and no one can question or query Him. His sovereignty can be seen in the last verse of the main scripture, Matthew 20:16 which says, “So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen”. The householder decided to give all the labourers the same way instead of paying per hour basis. Thirdly, the story goes to show that all the labourers working for the vineyard are all team mates. They are all one in spite of how many hours they worked. They have signed the same contract and they are one big team. Just like in a football team. The players who play full match, the players who sat on the reserve bench throughout a match and the ones who only play for some minutes in a match would get the same match bonus at the end of the day. Scripturally, we see King David apply the same principle in 1 Samuel 30:24, where he said, “…. The share of the one who went to battle will be the same as the share of the one who stayed with the supplies. They will get the same share”. (1 Samuel 30:24).
Beloved, the Lord has shown that He is impartial and sovereign and that He sees all believers as one body of Christ. Therefore, emulate him and do not discriminate. See all believers and servants of God as members of one body and see them as team mates working for the same goal (Ephesians 4:3-4). Glory be to God!
Prayer: Father GOD, You are impartial and sovereign. You see all your followers and servants as one and you do not discriminate. I ask for the grace to be like you, to be impartial and to see all members of your body as one team working for the same purpose. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name (Amen).
The Kingdom Series, Parable 8
Topic: The Kingdom like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son
Scriptural references:
……“The Kingdom of Heaven is likened unto a certain king, who made a marriage for his son….. (Matthew 22:1-14)
(Other references: Revelations 16:15; Ecclesiastes 9:8a; Matthew 21:14; Matthew 7:14; Isaiah 61:10; Psalm 105:15; 1 Chronicles 16:22).
Sermon:
Today, we continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed”. Followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Then part four which was titled, “the kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls”. Then part five which I titled, “The kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish”. Then part six which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king taking account of his servants”. Then part 7 which I titled, “The Kingdom like a householder who hired more labourers”.
Today, we are looking at Part 8, which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son”. In Matthew 22:2, Our Lord Jesus Christ likened the Kingdom to a certain king, who arranged a marriage ceremony for his son. The King symbolizes God, His Son symbolizes Christ, the servants symbolize servants of God (or preachers), the first and second class of invited guests represent a certain class of religious people while the last class of guests were the ordinary people of the world. Jesus shared the story from Matthew 22:1-14. He narrated how the King sent out his servants to go and call the invited guests but they didn’t come. He sent another batch of servants to call them but they refused to come. Some of the rebellious people went to the extent of killing the second batch of servants from the King. When the King heard of what happened, he sent his armies to destroy all the murderers and to burn down the city. Then he sent servants to invite the ordinary and poor people on the highway. They came for the wedding but one of them was not well dressed. The King therefore ordered his servants to take him out to outer darkness.
Firstly, this story goes to show that though many are called, few are chosen as the last verse (Matthew 22:14) of the main scripture declares. Matthew 7:14 affirms this, for it says, “For small is the gate and narrow the way leading to life, and few are those finding it”. Though a lot of people were invited, only few made at the end. Strive to be among the few on the narrow path that leads to eternal life. Secondly, the story shows that the Lord is mindful of the garment we put on, spiritually. He expects everyone who believes in Him should put on garments of salvation (and robes of righteousness according to Isaiah 61:10). Ecclesiastes 9:8a explains this. For it says, “Let your garments always be white”. The Lord also sheds more light on it in Revelations 16:15, which says, “Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watches, and keeps his garments on, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame”. Those that are not putting on the garment of salvation when the Lord returns shall be thrown into outer darkness (Matthew 22:13). A third lesson from the story is that the call of God (and rapture) can come anytime and as believers we should be ready at all times. I believe the first two sets of guests that were invited for the wedding were religious people who normally should be interested in attending such a godly event. But they were not ready. Be ever ready for the Lord’s calling and coming. A fourth lesson from the story is that God can speak through his servants and as believers we should be respectful to servants of God, and we should also be sensitive to the voice of the Lord and be obedient to Him. The Lord does not always speak to us directly with an audible voice. Sometime he uses people. The second batch of servants that were sent to call the invited guests were disrespected and killed. It shows that the murderers had no iota of respect for the servants. As a believer, you should have respect for anointed servants of God and ensure that you do them no harm. For the word of the Lord says, Touch not my anointed and do my prophet no harm (Psalm 105:15; 1 Chronicles 16:22). It is a very dangerous thing to harm the Lord's anointed. Such a thing would always attract God's wrath as seen in the parable.
In summary, the parable teaches every Christian to be sensitive and obedient, to strive to be among the few chosen ones, and to be ever ready for the Lord's coming.
I pray for you, that you would remain in Christ and be sensitive to his calling and not be found wanting when the Lord returns. May grace qualify you and mercy make way for you in Jesus name (Amen).
Prayer: Father GOD, give me the grace to be ever ready for your calling and coming. Let me be among the few that would be raptured when you return. Grant me a humble mind, respectful attitude, sensitive heart, obedient spirit and a permanent garment of salvation. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name.
The Kingdom Series, Parable 9
Topic: The Kingdom like a travelling man who gave talents
Scriptural references:
For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered to them his goods ….. (Matthew 25:14-30)
(Other references: Luke 19:13; Romans 14:12)
Sermon:
Today, we are going to continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed” followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Then part four which was titled, “the kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls. Then part five which I titled, “The kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish”. Then part six which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king taking account of his servants”. Then part 7 which I titled, “The Kingdom like a householder who hired more labourers”. Then Part 8 which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son”
Today, we are looking at Part 9, which I titled, “The Kingdom like a travelling man who gave talents”. In Matthew 25:14, our Lord Jesus Christ likened the kingdom of heaven to a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered to them his goods. The man symbolize Christ while the servants symbolize believers.
Jesus shared the story from Matthew 25:14-30. He narrated how the man gave talents to his servants and travelled far away. Unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey (Matthew 25:15). He expected that all of them would engage in business by trading the talents till he comes back (Like in the story in Luke 19:13). But that was not the case. When he came back, he called his servants and they came to give account of what they had done with their talents. The servant that was given five talents had doubled his talents. The one that was given two had also doubled his talents but the one that was given one talent hid his own and didn’t use to do any business. The man was so annoyed with the unprofitable servant, that he commanded that the one talent be taken from him and given to the servant with ten talents; and that the man should be cast into outer darkness (Matthew 25:30).
In summary, the parable teaches that: 1. Every believer should be occupied with the gifts he or she has received from the Lord. 2. Every believer would give account of all the gifts he or she has received from the Lord (Romans 14:12).
I pray for you that the Lord would give you grace and wisdom to occupy by using the talents he gave you till he comes back. May you not be found wanting in Jesus name.
Prayer: Father GOD, I ask that you give me the grace and wisdom to occupy till you come back. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name (Amen).
The Kingdom Series, Parable 10
Topic: The Kingdom like ten virgins
Scriptural references:
Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom …….. (Matthew 25:1-13).
(Other references: Matthew 24:42; Luke 12:40)
Sermon:
Today, we continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed”. Followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Then part four which was titled, “the kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls”. Then part five which titled, “The kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish”. Then part six which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king taking account of his servants”. Then part seven which I titled, “The Kingdom like a householder who hired more labourers”. Then Part eight which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son”. Then Part nine, which I titled, “The Kingdom like a travelling man who gave talents”. .
Today, we are looking at Part ten, which I titled, “The Kingdom like ten virgins”. In Matthew 25:1, our Lord Jesus Christ likened the kingdom of heaven to ten virgins, who took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. The bridegroom symbolize Christ, while the ten virgins symbolize believers.
Jesus shared the story from Matthew 25:1-13. He narrated how ten virgins prepared to meet their bridegroom. Five of them were wise and five were foolish. The five wise virgins had oil in their lamps while the five foolish virgins didn’t have oil in their lamps. When it was time to meet the bridegroom, they all trimmed their lamps but the five foolish ones had no oil in their lamps and had to go and buy. The five wise virgins went to meet the bridegroom while the foolish ones were gone to buy oil. When the five foolish virgins had gotten oil and were ready to meet the bridegroom, He denied knowing them and left them.
The lesson from this parable is that as a believer, you ought to be ever ready for the Lord’s return. Because he can come at an hour you do not expect (Luke 12:40). As the scripture says, “Watch therefore: for you know not what hour your Lord shall come” (Matthew 24:42). Therefore be always prepared for the rapture.
Prayer: Father GOD, help me to be always ready for your coming. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name.
The Kingdom Series, Parable 11
Topic: The Kingdom like a man who sowed good seed in his field
Scriptural references:
…..The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way …… – Matthew 13; 24-30
(Other references: 1 Timothy 4:1-2; 1 John 4:1; Matthew 24:11; John 8:31-32)
Sermon:
Today, we continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed” followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Then part four which was titled, “the kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls”. Then part five which titled, “The kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish”. Then part six which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king taking account of his servants”. Then part 7 which I titled, “The Kingdom like a householder who hired more labourers”. Then Part 8 which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son”. Followed by Part 9, which I titled, “The Kingdom like a travelling man who gave talents”. Followed by Part 10 which I titled, "The Kingdom like ten virgins".
Today, we are looking at Part 11, which I titled, “The Kingdom like a man who sowed good seed in his field”. In Matthew 13:24-30, our Lord Jesus Christ likened the kingdom of heaven to a man who sowed good seed in his field. Jesus shared the story from Matthew 13:24-30. He narrated how a man sowed good seed in his field but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat and went his way (Matthew 13:24-25). Then when the seeds began to sprout, the servants of the man saw both the true seed (wheat) and the tares. When they informed the man, who is the owner of the wheat and asked if they could remove the tares, he advised them to wait till the time of harvest.
The man symbolize Christ. The good seed (wheat) symbolize the true church. While the tares symbolize the false church. While the true church preaches sound doctrines. The false church preaches error and the doctrines of the devil. The false church is identified with false doctrines and principles of Satan.
Right now, there are lots of false prophets and false teachers who are out there to deceive people (1 Timothy 4:1-2; 1 John 4:1; Matthew 24:11). They don't operate with the principles of Christ. While we have the true church and true preachers that are out to fulfill the purpose of Christ and save and win more souls for the Kingdom. At the end of the age, our Lord Jesus Christ would destroy the false church but harvest the true church. The true church would be raptured while the false church would be judged and burnt. Pray for discernment to be able to differentiate between the two (John 8:31-32). You can only know the difference by discernment.
The lesson from the part 10 is that: 1. There exists the true church of Christ and a false system planted by the devil. 2. The Lord is coming for the true church, 3. He would destroy the false church. 4. You need discernment to be able to differentiate between the two.
Prayer: Father GOD, grant me the grace to discern between your true church and the false church. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name.
The Kingdom Series, Parable 12
Topic: The Kingdom like a man who scatters seed on the ground
Scriptural references:
He also said, “The kingdom of God is like a man who scatters seed on the ground. He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how …… (Mark 4:26 - 29).
(Other references: Acts 19:20; Matthew 16:18; Romans 1:16)
Sermon:
Today, we continue with the series on the Parables of the Kingdom. We kick started with part one titled, “The Kingdom like a grain of mustard seed”. Followed by part two which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Leaven”. Then part three which was titled, “The Kingdom like a Treasure hid in a Field". Then part four which was titled, “the kingdom like a merchant seeking pearls”. Then part five which titled, “The kingdom like a net that gathered every kind of fish”. Then part six which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king taking account of his servants”. Then part seven which I titled, “The Kingdom like a householder who hired more labourers”. Then Part eight which I titled, “The Kingdom like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son”. Then Part nine, which I titled, “The Kingdom like a travelling man who gave talents”. Then Part ten, which I titled, “The Kingdom like ten virgins. Then, Part eleven, which I titled, “The Kingdom like a man who sowed good seed in his field”.
Today, we are looking at Part twelve, which is titled, “The Kingdom like a man who scatters seed on the ground”. In Mark 4:26, our Lord Jesus Christ likened the kingdom of God to a man who scatters seed on the ground. He shared the story from Mark 4: 26 - 29. He described a farmer who scatters seed on the ground and when he wakes up every night and day, the seed grows and he doesn’t know how. By itself, the stalk shows up , then the ear, then the full grain in the ear and when the corn is fully ripe, it is due for harvest (Mark 4:26-29). The man (or farmer) symbolizes the servant of God preaching the gospel and spreading the word of God.
The parable portrays the assignment of servants of God to preach, and propagate the gospel through the spreading of the word of God. It also shows the miraculous power of the gospel after being preached. How it grows spontaneously, inexplicably and miraculously. The growth and progression of the gospel is beyond human explanation and reasoning. It grows and advances supernaturally. Acts 19:20 says, “So mightily grew the word and it prevailed”. The growth and increase of the word has advanced the Kingdom and it is still advancing the kingdom. For by the preaching of the gospel, souls of men are harvested. Because the word (gospel) is the power of God to save the souls of men (Romans 1:16).
In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said, He would build his church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. This shows that growth and advancement of the church and Kingdom cannot be stopped. It is advancing and would keep on advancing spontaneously until the end.
The lesson from this parable is that: 1. As we preach and propagate the gospel of Christ, we spread and scatter the word for the advancement of the Kingdom of God. 2. The consequent effect of sowing the seed is growth and supernatural/spontaneous advancement which is purely the work of the supernatural grace of God. It is not the work of man and cannot be explained by man. 3. The preaching of the gospel leads to harvest of souls .
Prayer: Father GOD, I choose to be part of what you are doing on the earth. I choose to be part of your fruitful and advancing Kingdom. Empower me with your word, so that I may win more souls for you and advance your kingdom. I pray with thanksgiving in Jesus name.
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