All these comments are fascinating but my thoughts have been trending another way lately. The Prodigal received forgiveness and grace - his initial thought was that if he confessed his sin he would get something to eat.

But the Father forgives and blesses him before he can get the words out - the robe covers his guilt, dirt and shame, the shoes show he is no longer a slave (slaves were not allowed shoes to keep them from running off), and the ring was the authority of the family name given to him.

The older son sought to gain grace and approval (and a goat to cook) through hard work. I think many of us as Christians begin to question why our (material) prayers aren't answered and two of the answers we come up with are that we aren't doing enough "good stuff" (older son) or that we are sinners (prodigal son).

The Father's reply fascinates me [paraphrase] "Son (child) you are always with me and all mine is thine." In other words, as a child of the Father everything the father had was available to the older son in the same fashion as forgiveness was available to the prodigal -- without doing anything, without "deserving" it. "Here it is; it's yours. Partake of all that I have," says the Father.

I'm beginning to work on an article that I'm tentatively calling "the Spirituality of Abundance". While I fully realize that, in this life, we are not to be controlled by money, is it wrong to participate in the Father's abundance? Not according to the Father's own words.

Neither the Prodigal's sin nor the older son's hard work and obedience seemed to matter to the Father when it came to participating in the Father's abundance.

Think this through in steps: 1) in John's letters it says "see how God has lavished his love on us that we should be called Children of God. Beloved, NOW we are Children of God." 2) In Psalms it says "the earth is the Lord's and ALL it contains" and 3) the Father said to BOTH his sons (one in actions and the other in words) "All that is mine is thine". The conclusion is that the riches of the earth are my Father's and therefore MINE.

So why did the older son seem unable to participate in this abundance? Look at his complaints -- "you never once GAVE me an animal so I could have a party with my friends" -- but how did the Father give abundance to the Prodigal?

He commanded his servants "Quick! Bring . . ." -- Hebrews says that angels are ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit the kingdom. I believe the older son did not participate because he kept waiting for someone to give him something. I think all he had to do was reach out and take what he wanted; the Father seemed to assume that was how things worked!

How much are we missing in life because we do not take hold of the abundance of God our Father -- not because we get a prize for being a repentant sinner nor because we have worked hard and feel we've earned something -- but simply as Children of a kind, gracious and loving (and wealthy!) Father?
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pls. give me an ending to the parable of good samaritan!
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can you tell me where I can find this quote about
the mustard seed in the Bible? The one about how even
the tiniest faith can grow? thank you.

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to me, the prodigal son`s elder brother did not know his rights despite his loyalty to the father, not until he was told by the father himself. As a child, you have every right to your father`s properties and that was why it was easier for the younger brother to receive his own portion without any query from the father. (well, it now depends on how you spend it)
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"Why were the first paid last, and the last first?

The pay God's servants receive is enternal life, and is characterized by the penny. Therefore, those who are granted the assurance of a never ending life first, are those who were hired last, and according to the parable, it was the company called at the eleventh hour. They are those who are marked or sealed by the man with the writer's inkhorn of Ezekiel 9, or as John calls him, the angle with the seal of God: and he sealed, or marked, 144,000. Rev. 7:1-8. This glorious company are the first who are granted the assurance of never tasting death. Thus they are paid first, but those who were called early in the morning (Ancient Israel) are to receive their reward, enternal life when they are resurrected. "So the last shall be first, and the first, last."

Why was he calling those questioning him evil? Was he calling them evil?

They that murmured represent that part of the Jewish nation who were unworthy, and the phrase, "Friend, I do thee no wrong... Take that thine is, and go thy way," denotes the rejection of the nation.

Note that those who were hired last were paid first, and the first, last. As all were equally regarded, the ones hired first murmured, though they were paid in full. Their disdainful act denotes that the Jewish nation was unworthy of their hire, and the Goodman said to them, "Take that thine is, and go ty way." As Ancient Israel is represented by the first called, so shall they be the last paid.
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I am looking for a large picture of a tree grown from a mustard seed to
use as an object lesson with children - young and old!
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Although many of those who dare interpret the extremely difficult Parable of the Unrighteous Mammon (Luke 16:1-13) have seen the lessons to be learned as otherworldly for heaven, our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ still expects His followers to obey it beyond conversion to Christ to get out of coming damnation for sin sure to be found out. This parable is no mere allegory; it has practical value, sadly neglected by today's churches. I aim to show the following twin points:

(1) The availability of individual faithfulness in the unrighteous mammon through personal practice of bankruptcy law (vv. 1-8).

(2) The importance of corporate faithfulness of a congregation in the unrighteous mammon by sending the members in Christ out to befriend the rich people of the world (vv. 9-13).

These points are of great importance to depose the evil servants in charge of so many of today's churches and to dethrone stingy Budgets which have severely limited the work of God in most congregations.

First, let us examine the practical value of the parable alone in Luke 16:1-8. I leave it to others to explain the allegory in which the master represents God threatening damnation yet offering to afford our salvation; still, however, as it continues to speak differently to the converted, there is great practical value even for surely born-again Christians to heed in it. Let us now examine the transactions of this parable as a triangular double exchange.

These exchanges are reminiscent of bankruptcy proceedings. If we follow the example of the Unjust Steward, except his dishonesty, as believers, we should seek a way to offer mercy to the world as the fired steward offered partial forgiveness of perhaps legally binding debts --- in exchange for the debtors' good will (vv. 4 - 7). We should seek a way to arrange for the indebted people of the world to provide partial payment to its masters in exchange for the masters' words of forgiveness (vv. 6 - 8). We should seek a deal with the masters of this world to offer them our professional services in exchange for the commissions or fees of the steward's position (vv. 1, 3, 8). Such a position is available out in the world for us to take up: bankruptcy lawyer.

In almost any modern bankruptcy case, the judge and creditor(s) hold the master's position in the parable; the debtor holds the debtors' position; while in the position of the steward being fired are bankruptcy lawyers. The bankruptcy lawyers corresponding to the parable are not permanent employees of the creditors and will seek other cases when the case at hand is closed. The deal is similar to the parable as follows: The bankruptcy lawyers grant mercy to the debtor by arguing the case for forgiveness of debts before the judge in the presence of the creditor(s). The debtor provides partial payment to the creditor(s) and remains grateful to his lawyer in addition to paying the lawyer's fees. The judge presents the word of justice to all creditors and to the debtor through explaining how the settlement thus reached is fair according to all applicable laws and precedents. The creditor pays lawyer's fees in exchange for legal services. Thus does the profession of bankruptcy law embody personal emulation of the role of the Unjust Steward.

Alas, it is not easy to take this position up in modern English-speaking countries. In the days of Jesus' ministry, nigh any freeman, or servant or slave with his master's permission, well-behaved in court, could argue as an advocate for the creditors or the bankrupt; Roman bankruptcy law was simple and harsh. Today's English-speaking countries, on the other hand, aim to protect the public from "unqualified" professionals; the result is a long, expensive and worrisome training of law school and certification such that disbarment is greatly feared. There are therefore two good reasons for Christians not to train for the professional position of bankruptcy lawyer: worry (Matt. 6:24ff) and belief that Jesus might rapture us saints out of this world before the career could pay off. Nevertheless, whenever an entire congregation of many Christians has left the profession of bankruptcy law completely to worldly lawyers, that church is not following the example of the Unjust Steward.

What brings me to my second point is that it is not always possible for Christians to hold the positions of bankruptcy lawyer. A missionary is uniquely ill-equipped to argue cases at law in a foreign language, for instance. For this reason, Jesus Christ has given us the real requirements for faithfulness in the unrighteous mammon in practice on a congregational level (Luke 16:9-13): that at each congregation claiming to follow Jesus we make friends with the wealth of unrightous people so that they might take us in if we should lose our homes through persecution, disaster, or financial trouble (v. 9) and so that the rich people of the world might endow us with the wealth created by God for us which accrues to the rich so that we might be well-funded for generous Christian ministry (vv. 11-12). That we cannot serve both God and Mammon (wealth) (v. 13) indicates what happens whenever a church is thoroughly unfaithful in the unrighteous mammon and relies on hard-earned donations for its function and replaces the generosity of God with stingy Budgets. Such churches have held to their Budgets and despised Jesus Christ's commands to give freely and set people free from financial worries, just as He predicted! Judgement is coming for these evil servants in charge!

Now if you read Luke 16:9 or any discussion of it with "it" in the second clause instead of "ye" or "you" (all, as a congregation), the text has been corrupted and translated from a Greek text missing the two letters Tau and Epsilon present in the word "eklipe^te," "(when) you fail financially," in the correct text. Please ignore such an author's or preacher's pronouncements from the wrong text (e. g., NIV) and pick up a King James Version to interpret correctly. Even experts reading from the corrupted translations make false promises of houses and welcomes in heaven and claim a false need to have the favor of many poor people in Christ for heaven's sake in eternity. Do not believe their mistaken promises; the "failing" in verse 9 is loss of home in the here and now rather than loss of dominion after death. Now, if we neglect the rich mission field as most American Christians have seen fit to do, we shall continue to lack the means for faithful local ministry, let alone world evangelism (v. 12). I, Kevin Douglas Rosenberg, refuse to tolerate this abominable state of affairs any longer; I decry and denounce the evil servants in charge of most churches and cry out for their master to return in the here and now (Matt. 24:45-51). Let it be known that those evil servants in charge when their master returns have no forgiveness from me, but sure awareness of the wrongness of their expedients to serve Christ in stinginess while His Holy Word requires their generosity. If the laws in the way of this judgement were repealed, I could gladly call a respected pastor an evil servant in charge and hack him apart and kick him out and flog him if I had the position; that position, however, is not mine, but that of the gatherings which hire such individuals. In the meantime, be sure of each church's need for favor with the rich people of the world, especially if there be no bankruptcy lawyers in it.

Let God enrich your churches through the favor of the rich people of the world, not through hard, proud work. Good luck!


(Erratum to my earlier message: A transposition occurred in my typing afflicted with carpal and cubital tunnel syndromes in both arms: "Matt. ... 6:42" -- a nonexistent verse -- should have read "Matt. ... 6:24, ..." in which Jesus taught against worry.)
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Our Father in Heaven's greatest commandment are clearabout our love toward God and others.St. Matthew 5:43-47 shows Our Lord Jesus giving an example of how we are to Love.St. Matthew 22:37-40 shows Our Lord and Savior Jesus speaking the 2 greatest commandments to the pharisees.These are fulfillments of the law.All is given from God the Father through Jesus Christ our Lord.Read Romans 10:8-10. God Bless You.
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When the Prodigal Son got a job on the pig farm, it would have been total humiliation, since the Jews believe that pigs are unclean. To make things worse, he had to eat the husks thrown to the pigs because no-one would give him anything. What do the pigs signify? Is it because he had to look after a living being other than himself? It seems that in the famine, the pigs were the only ones willing to share their food with him. ... A bit like the Good Samaritan maybe? I would appreciate some feed-back.

Thanks ever so much.

God Bless

Love Wendy
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Ok I do attend a catholic high school but I'm not that knowledgeable on this stuff so I have a question is somone could answer it quickly.........
True or False .... The message of Jesus given us in the parable of the Prodigal Son is God's unconditional forgiveness.
Thanx
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Actually augusta, the idea of the Trinity originated in Genesis Chapter One and reaffirmed in John Chapter One. The Trinity is threaded throughout the entirity of Scipture. Remember, the Trinity does NOT represent three gods.
God is ONE. Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Just as you are one: mind, soul and spirit. Just because you have three parts does not mean you are three different entities. Consider the egg. It has shell, white, and yolk; yet is one egg. I like to think of the Trinity exampled this way. The sun:
That large ball of fire 93 milliion miles away representative of the Father, the light which reaches us representative of the Son, and the heat which we feel representative of the Holy Spirit. Three definitive parts yet:::::: ONE SUN!
It is an interesting theory that the trinity idea started about 345 AD, but the Bible was written well before that date!!!!!
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Jesus makes his point clear by telling the story in three parts. First thing to note is who was the parable told for? The parable was for tax collectors, sinners, Pharisees and Scribes. In my opinion the message applies to all four groups, but it was mainly for the Pharisees and Scribes. In the Parable of the Lost Sheep it has a pattern of losing something(a sheep) and finding it then rejoice TOGETHER. In the Parable of the Lost Coin it follows the same pattern; something is lost(a coin) but is found then is followed by rejoicing TOGETHER. Similarly the prodigal son was lost then found but was there rejoice TOGETHER? As you may have notice i capped TOGETHER to bring in a point. The older son did not rejoice together with the family. This is how the Pharisees/Scribes were. Even though Jesus was bringing people to God(teaching to repent,etc) the Pharisees tried to stop him and plotted against him. It is similar in a way how Jesus use "Should he heal on the Sabbath?". Rather than being bitter about it, they should rejoice. If Jesus is bringing a new soul toward God and if we are all children of God, we should rejoice! If the Pharisees/Scribes are all children of God they should rejoice together when a sinner is admitted in.
Also notice how Jesus did not say how the older son replied, which is smart because it was a question for each Pharisee as an individual to answer.

It is also incorrect to say there is only one thing you should learn from this parable, but many things. As you can see we gather up quite a bit of different points in the story.
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About Mustard seed, he is
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The parable of the mustard seed continues with the same central thoughts set forth in the previous parable, the parable of the wheat and tares. Fruit-bearing remains at the forefront [v.31], as well as Satan's contining activity as he seeks to stop Christains from bearing fruit
And the method which Satan uses as he seeks to stop Christians from bearing fruit, revealed in the previous parable, is through sowing tares among the wheat. Then the parable of the mustard seed reveals that which would happen because of this activity of Satan.
In this respect, the parable of the mustard seed is simply a commentary on the previous parable, providing additional explanatory help. The mustard seed is seen growing after an adnormal fashion, showing Satans success in stopping Christains from bearing through causing an unnatural devoloping so abdormally that it eventually became a tree; and this tree is seen to be of such a nature that" the birds of the air", indivduals doing the work of Saten, found a lodging place in its branches[v.32;cf.vv.4, 19.] Thus the third parable, continuing the thought from the second parable, presents the tares being quite effective. They are seen deciving Christians to the degree that they bring about an unnatural growth in Christendom, resulting in unfruitfulness, barrenness; and the matter is carried to the point that, in the end, the tares even found acceptance among those whom they had decieved. Through producing an unnatural growth in Christendom-- one in which they themselves could find acceptance-- the tares stopped Christians from bearing fruit. The destruction has to do solely with [ The Word Of The Kingdom], the subject matter at hand. Then the tares were able to simply settle down in that which they had produced.
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Hello; When Christ was on earth the first time there were two major religious parities in Judaism--the Pharisees and the Sadducees. The Pharisees were the fundamental legalists. They believed the letter of the law. They believed in a future resurrection, in angels, and in the spirit realities. The Sadducees though were more liberal in their theology. They rejected any thought of a future resurrection, and they didn't believe in angels or in spirit realities [ Acts 23:8 ]

But the Pharisees and the Sadducees did have one thing in common. Neither would have anything to do with the message surrounding the proffered kingdom [Matt. 16:1-6 ]

The Pharisees followed Christ about the country, seeking to counter the signs being manifested , and seeking to bring about unbelief on the part of the people. They formed, by far, the largest religious sect in Israel. And, because of there numbers, they held undisputed sway over the people and masses. The sadducees were the second largest sect in Israel and sometimes joined themselves with the pharisees who controlled the religious like of the nation. They sat "in Moses seat" [Matt.23:1,2]. I hope this helps , Bye.....
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I hope your study of the good Samaritan brings forth amazing fruit in your life. I think it is time for all of us to realize that time is running out and we should spend ourselves, as the good Samaritan demonstrated, seeking out and caring for the lost. We can truly be ambassadors from heaven if we're willing to take Christ to a lost and perverted world. Jesus is the only answer. May God bless you and anoint you to proclaim his Word with boldness to all who will listen. My prayer is that He will give you such a love for souls that you will spend time in prayer and fasting believing for a harvest of souls. God Bless.............in His service, Bro. Pat
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If the father divided his estate between his two sons, 2/3 to the elder brother and 1/3 to the younger, then surely the younger brother returned to the land owned by his brother, not his father?
Please help.
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Sandals in the Bible are connected with the feet. Feet are connected with the WALK. The father is interested in our walk. The son was obviously barefooted. His feet/walk were exposed to stones, glass, injury of all kinds whilst unshod. When we are not walking with God, our feet, our lives are exposed to the pains which are caused by sin and transgression. When our feet, our walk is protected by the sandals we can walk in a way that is pleasing to our father. Sandals represent protection for the feet, a renewed walk, walking on a right path. See Psalm 1.

Paul also spoke of the feet being shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. See Ephesians 6. There we can relate to the need for the feet to be prepared to walk or run with the gospel message. Without feet that are properly shodden or covered, they too will be exposed to the harshness of the road. It won't be long that we shall not be able to walk with the gospel. We need help.

We need to have feet that are properly prepared for the journey, wether the Christian life or the gospel.

How beautiful are the feet of them the publish the gospel of peace.
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Tnx!!! i have an assignment and it is about parables of Jesus... Because of this forum, i can understand it and it is easy to explain in the class!!!Im not a Catholic so i cant understand in the book... TNX Very Much!!! ^_^





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Matt,

Not only does the parable speak to me, but so does your message. In my younger days I worked hard and exploited my professional talents. I amassed sizable wealth and had the pleasure of building homes that I and buyers were proud of. I became more and more playful, coasting on the material wealth and "security" that I "created", ignoring God and thinking that I alone controlled my destiny. Rather than praise God and continue my profession in earnest, I decided to invest my $$$ and look forward to an early, comfortable retirement. Work days became shorter. Recreation became expensive. I was smarter than the average Joe, right? WRONG! God reminded me who was boss. Sizable losses in the stock market was the large helping of humble pie I sorely needed. I now treasure what I have, most of all my God and my family. I know that if I use my talents wisely, I will multiply and honor God. With that comes peace of mind knowing that I've done my best.

Good luck in your studies of law. After 20 years experience in practicing law, I hope to give you some advice: you can be a good lawyer without compromising your Christian beliefs . . . even the most vexing problems can be solved with meditation and prayer.
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I have traveled the Country and always heard the same interpretation of the Mustard Seed and never say one mention above (unless I just missed it). There are many times people feel down but if they can maintain their faith, even if it feels so small, small as a mustard seed, God will always be there to grow that faith into the largest of seed baring plants. If you want to debate herbs, plants and trees, go nuts (no pun intended). The importance of the parable is that God is there-Always. Keep the faith, even when it seems unbearable, He will grow your faith to the largest.
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I believe your third explanation about Matthew 13:22 and what type of person this is, is not entirely correct. I believe they have indeed recieved the spirit and do have understanding. But the choking of the word or known as quenching of the Spirit, is done because of their cares for the world. They would rather indulge than follow the spirit in their heart therefore they choke him off from flourshing.
Like Paul says Don't take your liberty as an occasion to sin. That is this person. Thankyou for your comments on this though. I am sorry to see of the painstaking process you have had to endure. This is the patience and endurance of the Elect (Saints). God has blessed you with redemption friend what more do we need from this world.

Brother in Christ

James
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The wise were those who build their lives on Christ, not on any worldly form so many are doing. So many seem to build their supposedly Christian life on anything but the real Truth of Christ. The power of reason is so strong in many that they become as god's to themselves. They decide what the rules are based upon their own way of believing. It is a form. a shell of godliness, but is shallow and without power. They do not have the approval of God upon their heart. They know nothing of the assurances the true believer experiences when they follow the Lord. These have been decieved by the great deceiver of mankind, the Devil. To these, the Bible has been largely ignored. Or they have not divided the Scriptures so it all fits together without contradictions. Their supposedly educated reasoning is so wonderful, that in fact they make their own laws, and worship themselves. These have not built their house upon the eternal rock of Christ, but upon the sand of their own ideas. Or they have picked out some of the Bible truth, according to their own liking, and left some other vital facts of the Bible out. This is building on sand. Their house will not hold up in the time of testing, of the trials of life.
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The "fig tree," without fruit, represented fruitless Israel. Christ had sought fruit for three years, and had found none[Luke13:6-9]. There was nothing but leaves. Thus, the tree was to be "cut down", with a view to the Church being called into existence to bring forth fruit in relation to the kingdom of the heavens, in the stead of Israel [Matt. 21:43].
And, though Israel would be restored at a future time, Israel could never again be placed in the fruit-bearing position in relation to the heavenly sphere of the kingdom[Matt.12:31,32]. The nation, through a failure to bring forth fruit in this realm, had forfeited this right forever. Israel, when restored, can only bring forth fruit in relation to the earthly sphere of the kingdom
Thus, in Genesis, fig leaves only, apart from the figs themselves [fruit], depicted man's condition following the fall. He was in a fallen state, in no position to bring forth fruit relative to the reason surrounding his creation. Then, in the gospel accounts, Israel, though in a position to bring forth fruit surrounding the reason for the nation's existence[ as Gods first born son,in possession of the passover lamb], didn't bring forth fruit. And Christ used a fig tree without leaves only to respresent not only Israel's condition at that time [fruitless] but to also show, through the cursing of the fig tree, what was about to befall Israel.
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Please consider that a simple reading of this parable teaches something that is actually untenible.

How can it be that the 99 are " just persons, which need no repentance."

There are no such persons anywhere, ever.

So who are these 99, and to what is Jesus referring?

In Matthew 15:1-2 we read to whom Jesus was speaking: tax collectors and sinners, Pharisees and teachers of the law. These latter two groups were being critical of Jesus as he spoke.

Is it not the case that the Pharisees and teachers of the law were the ones who represent the 99? Would not they, and all who heard, have know Jesus was speaking of them as the ones "which need not repentance?" Not that they did not need repentance, but that they denied needing repentance.

The whole story is about the pruning of the vine, in which the hard hearted Jews were removed. The one sheep is then those Jews who would hear, and the gentiles as well.

As you read the following 4 stories Jesus gave, you will see this same thread in all of them, culminating in the Rich Man and Lazarus.

This is the real reason the Pharisees and teachers of the law got more and more perturbed as Jesus spoke!

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I have heard leaven compared to rot because it was left out to ferment and was wild as apposed to the neatness and cleanliness of the Jewish Kitchen. Any comments?
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i think it is roung
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the parable of good samaritan is very interesting topic because what good deeds do we want to do is in the topic.and we know that love is very important in this world and without this is everywhere is chaos.
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Thank you so much for all of your comments.
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For michelle Tobin and everyone else:
It seems by the way Jesus told the story, that one need not be a christian to inherit eternal life. Jesus was asked this question and after the parable answered " Go and do likewise". Now the good samaritan was not a christian, but a product of mixed interbreeding between jews from the Northern Kingdom and other people after Israel's exile. They were considered heretics. Yet, it was what was in the samaritans heart that was the focal point of the parable. To say that only christians ( only people who accept Jesus as their Lord and savior and accept that he died on the cross for their sins) are going to be saved, is in a way like, judging other people. And as you well know, Jesus clearly states "judge not, least you yourself be judged.
Amen and God bless everyone.
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I believe GOD was the Father in the story of the prodigcal son and He taught His child to love uncondionally by loving Him uncondional
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Hello,
I am also just starting a CGS Program here in the Sacramento area. Could you please forward the photo of the mustard tree. I am having a difficult time locating one for the class. Thank you so much! God bless, Christine
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There are a few major representations of the "oil". One, in the Old Testaments, it was instructed of Moses, by God, the use of the oil to anoint Aaron, the priest, for service for God. This was a great representation of separation and consecrating unto God to the priesthood. The anointing of God being represented on and in the presents of Aaron, which was also the same as the Holy Spirit in dwelling. Psalms 133:2 describes it as following: "It is like the precious ointment poured on the head, that ran down on the beard, even the beard of Aaron [the first high priest], that came down upon the collar and skirts of his garments [consecrating the whole body].

It also was the representation the Priests, Kings and Prophets that were anointed. Oil was poured on the head of the person being anointed. Kings were set apart through the ritual of anointing, which was performed by a prophet who acted in God's power and authority.

In the New Testament, anointing was represented with healing. The Holy Spirit's activities in a believer's life are picture in terms associated with anointing. The disciples anointed the sick in Mark 6:13 and James even instructed the elders to anoint the sick with oil (James 5:14).

Also in the New Testament, it represents the HOLY SPIRIT, which brings understanding to the believer (1 John 2:20, 27). The Holy Spirit anoints a person's heart and mind with the love and truth of God's word.
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i hope i am not asking too much but can you send me a picture of the mustard tree via e-mail
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The fig tree in this instance does represent us. ( In Gods Garden ).

Sometimes in life before we have excepted the Word of God we do not produce the desired fruit by God. (Compassion, kindness, wisdom etc)

In turn God "put shit on us" or fertilyzer. (A situation that stinks to us, but in turn allows us to grow spiritually.)

The Gardener, Jesus asks that God allow us to stay a little longer with the hope that we will one day fruit.

The fruit of God. - Gods Will.

If we fail to turn back to God and except His guidance, that we are indeed an unfruitful tree.

If this happens than we are not needed in Gods Green Garden.


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Would you please send me a copy of that picture? If it's good, I'd like to use it for my sermon on Sunday.

Mike
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The fact that the ninety and nine were following the shepherd assured their salvation. They were justified because they stayed under the watchful care of the shepherd and they trusted in Him.
They were justified by the actions of the shepherd. For we are justified by faith through grace and not of works lest any man should boast.

The lost sheep is only lost because he has failed to do one thing, follow the shepherd. He may now be lost, alone and scared but he does not know how to get back with the fold.

The shepherd left his throne in heaven to find the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

If you are lost and don't know Jesus, simply ask Him to find you and make you his own.

One way the Shepherd can find a lost sheep is by that sheep crying out. The Word of God states, "Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord Jesus shall be saved. Cry out to him from your lost place and I guarantee you He Will Find YOU and bring you Safely Home!!!!
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Like the other parables of Jesus, this one is about fruit-bearing, and the un-fruitful are thrown into hell. Those who hear the TRUE word of God, they are cleansed by it by doing it. Christ abides in the TRUE hearers and doers. Luke 6:47 - Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them..." John 8:47 - He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. 1 Corinthians 4:15 - For though ye have ten thousand instructers in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel." The branch cannot bear fruit by itself. 1 Corinthians 2:12 - Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 2 Corinthians 3:5 - Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God" Philippians 3:9 - And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith" 3 John 1:11 - Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God." Who can do good, but the true ones on the vine? Even TRUE faith is not from flesh and blood, but from God. John 3:27 - John answered and said, A man can receive NOTHING, except it be given him from heaven." 1 Corinthians 12:9 - To another FAITH by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;" Not one man can TRULY say that Jesus Christ is the son of God nor can any man truly tell people,(so-called preachers, ministers, or pastors) Matthew 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven." Also, to put an end to false teachers that say if you believe in Jesus Christ and accept him as your Lord and saviour, you'll be saved, NO MAN can come to Jesus unless God Himself decides that he would. Acts 16:31 - And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." But then, those people heared the TRUE word of God, and the words of JESUS CHRIST, John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. 2 Thessalonians 2:14 - Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." Then again, same gospel, 65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. 66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.(God revealed it to them, and had faith in him, that faith is not from their own heart, but from God) 70 Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve(God approved those 12, not the other disciples, because if He did give it to them to come to Jesus, they would of stayed, like the true disciples), and one of you is a devil?" Now all you people that read this, the false christians will not believe this, but the true christians will. John 15:20 - Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also." These sayings are in the bible, those who just ignored them in the bible will ignore my words(no, not truly mine) also. Those who believe these things, or knew them already, please, please contact me, at dallascourchene @ hotmail.com (NOTE: there are no spaces in the address.) Also to the so-called born-again christians, what did God call you to do? Live a normal life? I don't think so. People who are truly called are CALLED to do something for the LORD, not just worship Him and those who are called, know what they have to do by a certain wonder, or phenomemon. Acts 16:10 - And after he had seen the VISION, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had CALLED us for to preach the gospel unto them." Romans 1:1 - Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, CALLED to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God," Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." 1 Corinthians 7:20 - Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called." Ephesians 4:1 - I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called," We MUST be also worthy of this calling. 2 Timothy 1:9 - Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began," 1 Peter 2:21 - For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:" 1 Peter 5:10 - But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you PERFECT, stablish, strengthen, settle you." 2 Peter 1:3 - According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:" And yes, we can be perfect like Jesus. Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified." 2 Corinthians 4:4 - In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." Philippians 2:6 - Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:" John 16:33 - These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." 1 John 2:13 - I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father." 1 John 3:9 - Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God." Revelation 3:21 - To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne." We are called to be made into the image of Christ, who is the image of God. Jesus said so himself, the called can and will be like him. Matthew 10:25 - It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord..."
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The parable looks toward the gospel cry of righteousness by faith just prior to the second coming of Christ This message will go out across the world and many who have been quietly seeking the Lord through bible study and prayer, in places where the gospel has been otherwise supressed, will join their voices to those who are giving this "Elijah" message, whie personally putting away every known sin from their own lives and warning other to do the same. These 11th hour workers will be of every kindred and tongue, and from every nation and culture where the gospel has been deliberately supressed. They will recognise from the leading of God's spirit through their study of His word, the truth of this message- when they hear it, and they will also sound this last call of mercy where missionaries have never yet been able to reach. They will enjoy all the benefits of God's grace as co-laborers with Him according to His plan for mankind's eternal salvation-even though others have been faithfully giving this gospel message for many years. It is not for man to say who recieves what rewards Christ will give his children. His government does not consist of industrial laws where wages are determined by human policy, but by the grace of a loving God who rewards according to the state of a man's heart.
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James J suggests this parable has "the master" (God) asking for immoral earnings from his servants. Even the suggestion to put the money in the bank and get interest would have been against the Torah law against usury.

The more you think about this parable as it would have sounded to the people of the time, the more strange it seems.

I think the chances of us getting at what Jesus actually mean, if he ever said it, are slim.

Still, like many parables it can be made to fit in with what ever current thinking is, and thereby demonstrate that that current thinking is based on "Biblical principles". Or am I being cynical?
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I agree with you about the elder son who stayed home but the bible records that the Heavens rejoice when one lost comes home. For the brother that stayed, he's symbolic of us that have been in the church and done the bidding of the father for years and we let our selfishness get in the way of celebrating the return of our family (maybe some church members that used to come). He was faithful indeed and deserves merit, but he is also at fault in the fact that he should have known that he had a special place in the heart of the father. Just something to think about. God Bless

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Time and again, the Parables of Our Christ Jesus has taught us so many things. Loving unconditionally is one of the golden rule. As I have read the passage once again after several years, (maybe a year or two), it still somehow touched my life and made me realized that we should not be selfish with our time in helping other people especially those outside of our homes. Accidents happen unexpectedly, anytime, anywhere. But if we are willing to help without asking anything in return, (rewards or financial compensation, that is), we could make peoples burden easier to carry. In what way, you may ask? This, by giving comfort, moral support, and aid to the victim, err, by calling 911 or any similar emergency departments. That we must help people in need regardlesss of race, nationality and religion... that we must show compassion even when forced during emergency cases. Christian love is what the Lord wants us to learn and feel towards our neighbor...must be difficult, but, very rewarding, isnt it?
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I am doing Children's Message on faith and the mustard seed.
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This is simple. The seed is Jesus which is planted in the world. The birds are the people of the world whom are given the chance to eat of the tree which is planted for them.
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Better late than never to understand that his work to empower those bidden to supper was done. He wasted no time at all but extended what was intended for them to any within his reach. So it began again, to embolden others to forge ahead and gain their relationship to god. I see it as a positive outcome. The strength of the parable was in the nature of the giver to give, not the receiver to receive.
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To confirm my belief that God's destroyer angel was released on July 29, 2003 And is now surveying the United States, I was given a dream on July 30/31, 2003 that is similar to the parable of 10 virgins.

My reality was this: a clear water, cement canal, that winded, so that you could not see far ahead or behind because of the curves. I was swimming in this canal, when suddenly I saw a great white shark patroling the waters and coming my direction. I quickly climbed out of the waters onto the bank. I watched for awhile the creature swimming. Then I gathered the confidence to go back in. However, I knew that I must be vigilant incase the creature came back. Lo and behold, the creature did come back, but was on top of me so fast that I could not escape the water. But the creature passed by without harming me. I believe this to be the destroying angel patroling our nation which was released on July 29, 2003. I believe he does not have the power to destroy yet. And I believe we must remain vigilant, because the day and the hour inwhich he receives the power to destroy may come at any time. Dream/Commentary 2003 - www.bigfootlivesindallaswestend.com

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I have a friend on life support. She was like Lazurus, full of sores that our eyes could not see, but the heart could. So many people became tired trying to deal with her sores (including myself). She felt as though no one really loved her. She had received Jesus, but I don't really think she understood his love for her.

The family is pulling the life support in just fifteen more minutes, Wednesday, March 25th at 5pm. Do we know whether she will breathe on her own? Is she already with the Lord, as there is no brain function? She probably knows better than we who remain.

I ask Jesus for forgiveness for anytime that I did not treat her as my neighbor and acted in part as the rich man did who received good things. This is a day to remember, that in life, always love your neighbor, show mercy, share your good things and try to endure with patience those who have a life of evil sores befalling them. This is humbling.

God bless,
Victoria Trees
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Since, this parable of the rich fool,My understanding is that we should not be very materialistic, since this things are not ours, forever and
we never ever have these things without God's guidance and help. We can not be that greedy, what We have, it is best to share, and be kind to everyone, because as the saying goes, you can not reach where you want to go without looking it back, and always, say "Thank you" to the Lord with all the blessing he gave us in this world, you born naked I mean nothing, and we go with out anything. The best lesson we learn here is
whatever God given us, make sure we thank him for everything,

Put in mind and in our soul He is the One, Whom we owe everything.
Don't sit back and forget him, and we think we have everything. NAH!

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please can l have someone help me with the sermon on the prodigal son.the lessons we learn from the story as l am to preach the sermon soon.
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The Mustard Parable was a fulfilled Prophecy from Ezekiel 17!
Quote:
Ezekiel 17
22. Thus saith the Lord God; I will also take of the highest branch of the high cedar, and will set it; I will crop off from the top of his young twigs a tender one, and will plant it upon an high mountain and eminent:
23. In the mountain of the height of Israel will I plant it: and it shall bring forth boughs, and bear fruit, and be a goodly cedar: and under it shall dwell all fowl of every wing; in the shadow of the branches thereof shall they dwell.
24. And all the trees of the field shall know that I the Lord have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the Lord have spoken and have done it.












Other info....

Psalms 104
12. By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches.

Proverbs 11
28. He that trusteth in his riches shall fall; but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

Isaiah 4
2. In that day shall the branch of the Lord be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them...

Isaiah 11
1. And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
2. And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;

Isaiah 60
16. Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the Lord am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.
17. For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness.
18. Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise.
19. The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.
20. Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.
21. Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.


Jeremiah 23
5. Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.
6. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

Jeremiah 33
15. In those days, and at that time, will I cause the Branch of righteousness to grow up unto David; and he shall execute judgment and righteousness in the land.
_________________

The Harvest is soon......
and
If any person comes to Jesus Christ,
and doesn't love Jesus Christ over,
their father,
or their mother,
or their spouse,
or their children,
or their brethren,
or their sisters,
or even their own life,
they are not able to be a followers of Jesus Christ!

The Truth Shall Set You FREE!
http://www.freejesus.net/salvation.php
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