The Kingdom of Heaven
Jesus spent a great deal of time talking about a new kingdom which is happening in the world. Using stories and illustrations he helps us understand how the world truly works, our place in it, and what God is doing in the messy parts of life. One of those places which can become unexpectedly messy is church. Why don't things go smoothly within churches if they are God's idea in the first place? Some of Jesus teachings shed light on what people experience as they gather together to seek and serve Godl. (NOTES)
Matthew 13:1-3 Later that same day Jesus left the house and sat beside the lake. A large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat there and taught as the people stood on the shore. He told many stories in the form of parables, such as this one:"Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seeds.