In this episode we focus on parables that encourage us to make decisions about the Kingdom of God. We explore the confrontational nature of the parables about the sheep and the goats and the barren fig tree, drawing out their emphasis on the importance of what we do – Christian faith in action. We discuss how Jesus used these stories to provoke and challenge his audience regarding their relationship with God and their life choices. We conclude by thinking about the cost of discipleship, highlighting the trials and sacrifices involved in following Jesus.

Timestamps

• (00:00) - Intro
• (00:40) - How do parables bring us to a decision?
• (02:45) - How do these parables function?
• (04:45) - The parable of the sheep and the goats
• (07:00) - What does this parable mean?
• (12:00) - What we do matters
• (17:07) - The parable of the barren fig tree
• (19:07) - Ancient views on misfortune and sin
• (22:12) - The patience of God
• (26:22) - Pursuing the right fruit
• (28:42) - The cost of being a disciple

Rooted:
Rooted is our devotional journal that helps make the Bible available to everyone, everywhere. Every other month, you’ll receive a new 80-page journal filled with insightful devotionals, thought-provoking prompts, and lots of opportunities to reflect, journal and be creative. Sign up today to receive your first journal for free.

Send us your questions!
We'd love to hear from you.
Submit your question

Bible Society:

The Rooted Podcast is brought to you by Bible Society, a Christian organisation that translates, publishes, and distributes the Bible. We communicate its relevance and invite people to experience the transforming power of the Scriptures in today’s world. Visit our website to find out more.

Bible Society socials:

Facebook
Instagram
X (formerly Twitter)

Disclaimer:

This is a Bible Society podcast, but it’s also a conversation between people exploring the Bible together. We won’t get everything right, and we won’t always agree! Please be patient with us and join us on the journey.

#Parables #JesusTeaching #KingdomValues #GospelTeaching #GodsValueSystem #KingdomOfHeaven #ChristianLiving #ChristianPodcast

Today we're joined by Liam Thatcher, a church pastor from Oxford and former writer at Bible Society.

In this episode we discuss how Jesus used simple illustrations to convey profound truths about the kingdom of heaven, emphasising the hidden yet transformative nature of these teachings. Looking at the parable of the leaven, we discuss the growth and impact of the kingdom in the world today, highlighting the importance of being active agents of change.

We also explore the parable of the dragnet, emphasising the importance of patience and discernment in church life, the role of teachers, and the need for humility and celebration in our lives.

Timestamps

• (00:00) - Intro
• (01:30) - Jesus using short illustrations
• (10:45) - The parable of the yeast
• (14:56) - The scale of the kingdom
• (18:26) - Do Christians need to be in places of power?
• (23:20) - The hidden power of the kingdom
• (25:31) - The parable of the dragnet
• (27:56) - Judgement and justice in the kingdom
• (30:26) - Church discipline
• (35:51) - The parable of the lost coin
• (39:26) - Measuring worth in God's eyes

Rooted:
Rooted is our devotional journal that helps make the Bible available to everyone, everywhere. Every other month, you’ll receive a new 80-page journal filled with insightful devotionals, thought-provoking prompts, and lots of opportunities to reflect, journal and be creative. Sign up today to receive your first journal for free.

Bible a Month
Could you put the Bible in someone’s hands every month with a regular donation of £10 or more? Find out more about how you can share God's word today.

The Rooted Podcast is brought to you by Bible Society, a Christian organisation that translates, publishes, and distributes the Bible. We communicate its relevance and invite people to experience the transforming power of the Scriptures in today’s world. Visit our website to find out more.

Bible Society socials:

Facebook
Instagram
X (formerly Twitter)

Disclaimer:

This is a Bible Society podcast, but it’s also a conversation between people exploring the Bible together. We won’t get everything right, and we won’t always agree! Please be patient with us and join us on the journey.

#Parables #JesusTeaching #KingdomValues #GospelTeaching #GodsValueSystem #KingdomOfHeaven #ChristianLiving #ChristianPodcast