Welcome to week 23 of Weekly Word!
We’re excited to begin a new series through the parables of Jesus! Why did Jesus speak in parables? How can they help us learn from Him today? Can you imagine sitting at the feet of Jesus and just learning from Him? Over the next several weeks, we will do just that.
Below, you’ll find your readings for this week, along with discussion questions and a short devotional for you to enjoy at the end of the week.
Readings:
- Matthew 13:10–17 & Mark 4:10–12
- Judges 15-16
Devotional:
Readings: Matthew 13:10–17 & Mark 4:10–12 | Judges 15-16
I recently heard a beautiful description of what a parable is: a story with a heavenly meaning.
When the disciples explicitly asked Jesus, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” (Matthew 13:10), He explained that these stories were not just creative illustrations, but a deliberate filtering mechanism. Jesus explained His reasoning through three distinct, interconnected purposes: to reveal truth to those seeking after the Kingdom of God, to conceal truth from hardened hearts and those rejecting Him, and to fulfill Biblical prophecy.
A parable is not just a clever illustration; it can be a spiritual diagnostic tool. It uncovers whether we are approaching God with a posture of humble submission or stubborn self-righteousness.
As we sit at the feet of Jesus and learn from Him, may our hearts be continually open to His teaching, our eyes clear to see His face, and our ears open to His Words of eternal life!
Discussion Questions:
- Jesus quotes Isaiah, describing people who hear but never understand because their hearts have grown dull. What daily habits or distractions tend to make your spiritual heart feel heavy or unresponsive?
- Knowing that the Holy Spirit reveals God’s truth to us, how does that change the way you read your Bible or listen to a sermon?
- Samson had incredible spiritual giftings but very shallow roots, causing him to wither under temptation. What practical steps can you take this week to ensure your faith moves past external performance and into a deeply rooted, daily relationship with Jesus?
Dig Deeper
Stay tuned for next week’s Weekly Word, where we’ll dig deeper into the parable of the sower in Antioch’s 2023 sermon series, “Parables.”
We are praying for you as you dig into God’s Word this week!