Last time, as we started this new series on the Parables, we attempted to define what a parable is and compared and contrasted Jesus’ parables with those from other ancient Jewish literature. We left that study understanding that parables are short stories that twist scenes from everyday life to speak on some spiritual theme, generally … Continue reading Reading the Parables Today
One of Jesus’ most distinctive traits as a teacher was his extensive use of parables, short stories using everyday images to deliver messages on spiritual themes. While most teachers use analogies from time to time, this was a particular hallmark of Jesus’s teaching. Depending on how you define the term, the Gospels count from between … Continue reading Kingdom Stories: Introduction
[This month, we've been revisiting an old series from 2022. Below is a slightly updated version of the text from the original post] At the beginning of this series on vocation, I set some pretty lofty goals — to do nothing less than address the questions, Who am I? and Why am I here? What … Continue reading Vocation Today – Concluding Thoughts [Revisited]
Christianity is many things, but contrary to what some false teachers today might tell you, it’s not and has never been a religion that claims that good things will happen to good people or that we get what we deserve. No, it's far too realistic about both the world and the human condition for that. … Continue reading When All Around Has Fallen: A Reflection on 1 Kings 19.1-15
[This month I'm revisiting an old series on vocation. I hope you enjoy the post below, which is a slightly edited version of what I first posted in 2022] Before ending this series on vocation, we need to look at the all-important topic of spiritual discernment. It’s all well and good for us to talk … Continue reading Vocation and Discernment [Revisited]
Matthew Root 