May 29, 2022

Dull Spirituality

As Jesus often spoke in parables, it divided those who understood the truth and those who rejected it. When people’s hearts become dull, they cannot receive the blessings of God’s truth.

Parables are memorable stories intended to communicate spiritual truths.

Context

  • Jesus’ ministry gained some traction, but it had not reached the anticipated momentum yet.
  • Jesus was experiencing the skepticism from His forerunner (11:3), the conspiracy of religious leaders (12:14), the uncertainty of the crowds (12:23), and the pressure of His family (12:46).

Content

  • The gospel produces a harvest depending on the type of reception (13:1-9).
  • Jesus doesn’t expect people to agree with spiritual truths if they don’t have a Kingdom mindset (13:10-13).
  • Even religious people are in danger of possessing a dull spirituality (13:14-17).
  • Every person has either a critical (18-19), casual (20-21), conflicted (22), or compliant (23) heart.  

Concept

  • Spiritual vibrancy is contingent upon how you process Kingdom values.
  • If you don’t find yourself eagerly embracing a Kingdom mindset, it’s because you value something more.
  • What does the manner of your receptivity say about your spiritual condition?
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More from this Series

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Be Ready When It’s Time to Go

In The Parable of the Ten Virgins, Jesus warned disciples to prepare for His return. While we know neither the day nor the hour, we can guarantee that He will come again to gather those who belong to Him.

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The Danger of Entitlement

Jesus taught that those who serve God should not become entitled. Even if we do all God commands of us, we are still unworthy servants who should still be amazed to belong to Him.

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The Irony of Religious Resentment

In The Parable of the Prodigal Son, Jesus showed the grave mishandling of the religious community to those whose lives were being changed. We cannot confuse our relationship with the Father as something we deserve.

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Rejecting God’s Son

In The Parable of the Tenants, Jesus foreshadowed how the world would reject Him rather than receive Him. As we look at His sacrifice, how will we respond to the cross?

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