JESUS' TEACHINGS - PARABLES

 

                                                 24: THE LOST SHEEP

                                                    Matthew 18:10-14,  Luke 15:-7

In this passage in Luke 15, how Jesus and His Father celebrate with the angels in Heaven, when people REPENT OF THEIR SINS AND FOLLOW AFTER HIM.

"I say to you likewise, there will be more joy in Heaven over ONE SINNER WHO REPENTS than over ninety nine just persons who need no repentance."                                                                                                                           Luke 15:7 (NKJV)

"They rejoice with JOY unspeakable and full of GLORY over one sinner who repents." Charles Spurgeon  

This needs to be something we need to learn about, just as the shepherd celebrates when he finds his sheep; and the angels celebrate in heaven over those who repent, we need to get excited when our family and friends, or any new people come to a relationship with Jesus Christ in the our Church. 

We need to be "radiant" and "full of cheer", spending time with them whose names are "now written in the book of life" with us. 

"Rejoice with me, for I have found my SHEEP which was LOST!" Luke 15:6 (MSG)

                                            

                                                25.  THE LOST COINS

                                                    Read Luke 15:8-10

      "Likewise, I say to you,  THERE IS JOY IN THE PRESENCE OF THE ANGELS OF GOD, OVER ONE SINNER WHO REPENTS." Luke 15:10 (NKJV)         

In theis second Parable, Jesus agains tells how God seeks after those who are lost, just like the woman did with her coin, and she CELEBRATES with her neighbours and friends when she found it, just as God did with the angels in Heaven, over the "sinners who repent".   

Just like the shepherd searched  all over the whole pasture, leaving behind his other "99 sheep", looking for ONE LOST SHEEP,  the woman swept her whole house for just ONE LOST COIN.   

"And when she found it, she calls her friends and neighbours together, saying, "REJOICE WITH ME, for I have found the piece which I lost!" Luke 15:9 (NKJV)

We too are challenged to seek the LOST, because in the eyes of God and Jesus, His Son,  His LOVE, MERCY, GRACE and SALVATION, show us great "VALUE AND WORTH" in their 'KINGDOM".   

                                                      26. THE LOST SON
                                                       Read Luke 15: 11-32 

"GOD LOVES YOU passionately, wholeheartedly and unconditionally.  It is never too late tio TURN TO GOD. He will ACCEPT YOU and EMBRACE YOU. Jesus will tell us another parable about a father and his lost son, because HE CARES DESPERATELY about the LOST. GOD'S LOVE is extroadinary and goes on beyond anything you could accept or imagine." Nicky Gumble

Go on an read this next PARABLE!

                                               

 Probably the greatest story ever told is that of the LOST SON and the LOVING FATHER. The youngest son requests his inheritance from his father - an "ourageous request" in Middle Eastern culture. Yet in an act of "extrodinary love" his father gave it to him, along with his FREEDOM, and his son LEFT HIM. 

Many people today have experienced this loss of a family member. The son went away and "wasted all his money". He ending up "empty inside", feeding the pigs. Turning to God, he came to his senses and decided to return home. He would tell his father he would work for him as a servant. 

"At home, even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here am I dying of hunger! I will go home to my father and say to him, "Father, I have sinned against both Heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. Please take me on as a hired servant." Luke 15:18&19 (NLT)

It appears the father had been "watching and waiting" for him. Each day, he came outside, in the hope that his son would return. He had never "forgotten him". 

"His heart was pounding as he ran out, emracing him and kissed him."                                                                                                                         Luke 15:20 (MSG)

This is how GOD RECEIVES US! His son had prepared a "speech of repentance"m but his father treated him as an "honoured guest" and planned a "lavished celebration party". Doesn't this remind you of the celebration in Heaven in previous parables, when GOD'S CHILDREN HAD REPENTED.

Yet his older brother was not happy! He did not come to the party! He was "sulking"! Why? 

* He didn't accept his father's FORGIVENESS of his brother. Had he ever thrown him a party?

* He was jealous of his father putting his arm around his brother.  Had he ever done this to him?

"Son, you don't understand. You have been with me all the time, and everything that is mine is yours, but this is a WONDERFUL TIME and we had to CELEBRATE. This brother of yours was dead but NOW HE IS ALIVE! He was lost, but HE IS FOUND!" Luke 15:31&32 (MSG)

This is one of the greatest PARABLES - the greatest passages in Luke. Jesus talks a lot about "PARTYS" and "CELEBRATIONS". Each story speaks about something LOST - the LOST SHEEP, THE LOST COIN and THE LOST SON. And each of the people: the SHEPHERD, the WOMAN and the FATHER FOUND what they had LOST. Then there was CELEBRATION AND HAPPINESS! 

"The Holy Bible, New King  James Version", 1982, Thomas Nelson

"The Holy Bible, New Living Translations", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

""The Message - The Bible Commentary Language Copyright", 2018, Eugene H Peterson, Navigation Press/Tyndale House Publishers

"The Parable of the Lost Sheep - Jesus Shares te Parable of the Lost Sheep", 2914,                                                                                                                            Superbook''

"A Lost Coin - Parable of the Lost Coin - Kids Song", 2025, Bible Fun Sing a Long/                                                                                                                                                 You Tube

"The Prodigal Book -- Parable Kids Bible - Episode 12, Season 2," 2025, Superbook

"How Deep the Father's Love", Stuart Townsend, (Composer/Singer), 1995, Thankyou Music/Capital (CMG)/Integrity Music

"GUMBLE, Nicky & Pippa, "Commentary - the Bible in One Year: Parable: 3 Lost Sheep, Coin ands Son" - 2009/2025, Alpha International/You Version

   

 

            

JESUS' TEACHING: PARABLES

23. THE COST OF BEING A DISCIPLE

Read Luke 14:25-33

"And whoever does not CARRY THEIR CROSS and FOLLOW ME cannot BE MY DISCIPLE." Luke 14:27 (NIV)

Jesus used three analogies to talk about the cost of following Him and being a disciple:

1. CARRYING A CROSS - they needed to give up everything that was important to them.

"So you cannot become my disciple without giving up everything you own." Luke 14:33 (NLT) 

2. BUILDING A TOWER - * they needed to "estimate the cost" and see if they could afford                                                    it.

                                                * they also needed to "lay a foundation", so they could finish it.

"For if you would begin the construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if ther is enoug money to finish it. Otherwise, you might only complete the foundation before running out of money." Luke 14:28b-29a (NLT)

3. A KING GOING TO WAR AGAINST ANOTHER KING - * needed to consider whether                                                        his "10, 000 men" could win the war against the "20,000" of his                                                                                                              opponent.

                                                   * If he can't, he will send a "delegation" to make PEACE with                                                          them, while "they are a long way off".

"What king would go to war without sitting down with his counselors to discuss whether his army could defeat them...should they discuss terms of peace?"                                                                                                             Luke 14:31a & 32a (NLT)

Jesus is telling hiswould need whatever they decided to do, to make a TOTAL COMMITTMENT.   If they want to "give up their possessions" , "their family" and even "carry their own cross"; just like the the builder, who needed to commit himself to what he started, so he could finish; or the king, who needed to risk everything, even if it meant losing his life. 

"The image of the cross clearly suggests that there will be suffering. We hold on to lots of things, but we need to open up our hands and give everything you have to Jesus. The cost of FOLLOWING JESUS is nothing compared to the blessings God gives you. It is nothing compared to the cross that Jesus carried for you. "                                                                                                            Nicky & Pippa Gumbel

"The cost of giving up everything is like a covenant of marriage, that requires sacrifice.  There is nothing worse than a Christian acting as though their possessions and still their own. Look at everything in Luke 14 - are you willing to PAY THE PRICE, just as Jesus did." Kris Langham

 "HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION",  2011, Biblica                 

" HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippa, "The Bible in One Year - Your Invitation" - (2009/2025), Alpha International/You Version

LANGHAM, Kris, "Count the Cost: Luke 14" - 2025, Through the Word               

JESUS' TTEACHING - PARABLES

 

                                           22. THE GOOD SAMARITAN

                                            Read Luke 10: 25-37 (NLT)

The Pharisees were testing Jesus about TRUE LOVE. They wanted Him to justify Himself by asking Him: "Who is my true neighbour?"  Jesus told them this story of the "GOOD SAMARITAN".

A man was travelling from Jerusalem when he was attacked by robbers and left on the side of the road. A PRIEST past by and did nothing! A LEVITE did the same! Then a SAMARITAN MAN STOPPED!  Though despised by the Jews, he stopped and helped the injured Jewish man.  HE HAD COMPASSION!  

"He tended to His wounds, put him on his animal and  took him to the Inn, paying for his care, promisind to return and cover for his additional expenses".                                                                                                                     PeoplesChurch

These "religious leaders" were expected to do what was right, but they didn't. Somestimes, we are just "TOO BUSY" to "LOVE OUR NEIGHBOUR".

But the SAMARITAN - the outcast - who was not expected to be HIS NEIGHBOUR had love and compassion on him. He took TIME AND PITY on him, lots of PATIENCE TO HELP HIM. 

"This is a call for us to help "real hurting people". CARE that "restores and renews". The Samaritan didn't save the world, but he was a NEIGHBOUR to that ONE PERSON that day. Jesus said: "Go, and do likewise"." Chris Langham

Only Luke tells the famous story of the Good Samaritan. Although Samaritans and Jews did not get along, Samaritans still held the LAW SACRED. The Jews saw them as "scum and untouchable", but only the Samaritan showed real LOVE and KINDNESS to the Jewish man beaten up on the side of the road. 

"How did Jesus show this Samaritan as a hero in this story, despite the  animosity between them?" PeoplesChurch

"You must LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all YOUR HEART, all your SOUL, and all your MIND, and 'LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR AS YOURSELF." Luke 10: 27 (NLT)

"We, like the Samaritan, need to demonstrate our LOVE FOR GOD, by LOVING those we may find DIFFICULT TO LOVE. By giving them GRACE AND FORGIVENESS just like Jesus."  Charles Swindoll

"What can we do this week to LOVE the unloveable and neglected? How can you reach out as Jesus would with GOD'S LOVE?"  Max Lucado

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION." (2015), Tyndale House Foundation


"The Good Samaritan: Lyric Video Children's Worship Song About Compassion and Kindness- Luke 10:25-37",  (2025), MarigoldsLoveJesus/Spotify

"Love the Lord - Kids Worship Motions with Lyrics" (2019), CJ and Friends, You Tube

PeoplesChurch, "Parables of Jesus - The Good Samaritan", 2025, You Version

Langham, Chris, "Luke Explained - Part 1: Througout the Word", 2024, You Version

Swindoll, Charles, "Simple Faith",1993, Insight for Living. 

Lucado, Max, "Just Like Jesus", 1998, Word Publishing Group

JESUS' TEACHINGS - PARABLES

                                                       20. THE TALENTS

                                                   Read  Matthew 25:14-30

These "TALENTS" (GOLD) were a large sum of money. Each man was entrused to a certain amount of money, and he was expected to invest it, while his boss went away. What they used - their TALENTS - determined their future.

Today, thest TALENTS are a representation of our GIFTS. The first two servants did something with their money, but the third servant just "buried" his. The could have used it for GOOD WORKS, growing in their FAITH, but the third servant wasted his TIME and ENERGY. 

This man feared his Master, rather than accepting His GRACE and KINDNESS. The Religious Leaders had these chances too, but unlike the disciples they wasted their time with Jesus. They had the opportunity to accept his HIM, but they did'nt!

 USE IT, OR LOSE IT

We too have been given GIFTS from God. He is generous and kind! We have the skills, the energy, the time and the opportunity to be FAITHFUL with what He has given us. We can be "afraid" like the third servant and "hide our talents", or we can work hard and STEP OUT IN FAITH and USE OUR GIFTS!

"The master said: "Well done, my GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT. You have been FAITHFUL HANDLING THIS SMALL AMOUNT, so now I will give you MORE RESPONSIBILITIES. Let's celebrate together!" Matthew 25:23 (NLT)

"Lord, help us to be FAITHFUL WITH OUR TALENTS , in praying with our friends, and persevering and being KINDHEARTED AND REACHING OUT TO OTHERS - everyone we meet." Nicky Gumbel

"I feel sorry for the man who was too frightened to use HIS TALENT. Sometimes we fear FAILING, and looking like a FOOL. But God made us a way to GIVE US PURPOSE, so that we can FULFIL HIS WILL." Pippa Gumbel

                                               21. SHEEP & GOATS

                                           Read Matthew 25:31-46

"When the Son of Man comes in His glory and the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will seperate the people one from another, as a SHEPHERD SEPERATES THE SHEEP FROM THE GOATS. He will put the SHEEP ON HIS RIIGHT and the GOATS ON HIS LEFT."                                                                                                           Matthew 25:31-33 (NIV)

Jesus was taking about HIS COMING on JUDGEMENT DAY. The SHEEP were representing the RIGHTEOUS and they were being blessed, for they had been "feeding the hungry" and caring  for all the strangers and sick. They don't remember doing these things for Jesus, but they did do them for his children and followers. 

 "Whatever you did for the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.....For I was hungry, and YOU FED ME. I was thirsty, and YOU GAVE ME A DRINK. I was a stranger, and YOU INVITED ME INTO YOUR HOME. I was naked, and YOU GAVE ME CLOTHING. I was sick, and YOU CARED FOR ME. I was in prison, and YOU VISITED ME." Matthew 25:40, 35&36 (NLT)

Those who didn''t do these things "missed opportunites", and these were the "unrighteous", representing GOATS. They did not remember not doing this, but they did not accept Jesus as their Saviour or follow Him in obedience. 

"This Parable concludes  with the RIGHTEOUS BEING REWARDED WITH ETERNAL LIFE, while the unrighteous were condemned with EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT. " PeoplesChurch

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION" - 2015, Tyndale House Publishing

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION" - 2011, Biblica

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippa, "Bible In One Year" - "Use It or Lose It", 2009/2025, Alpha International/You Version

PEOLES CHURCH, "Stories of the Kingdom: Parables of Jesus", 2025, You Version

"The Parable of the Talents - Matthew 25", 2021, Col Johnston (Singer), A Gospel in Song Collection

"The Parable of the Sheep and Goats - Matthew 25", 2022, Ian Grant,In God's Service.

JESUS' TEACHING - PARABLES

                                  

                                                        18. THE TENANTS

                              Matthew 21:33-44; Mark 12:1-11; Luke 20:9-18

Jesus describes HIS KINGDOM as being like A VINEYARD. This time we see GOD'S LOVE, but we also see HIS JUDGEMENTS - for there are those who reject Him and are evil.

"A certain LANDOWMER planted a VINEYARD, built a wall around it, dug a pit for pressing out the grapejuice and built a look out TOWER. At the time of the GRAPE HARVEST , he sent his servants to the tennant farmers to whom he had leased the VINEARD." Matthew 21:33&34 (NCV)

The tennants killed the servants - "BEAT ONE, KILLED ANOTHER and STONED THE THIRD". Their final act of rebellion was "KILLING THE LANDOWNERS SON". The Landowner had sent Him, thinking the tennants would respect his son, but instead they wanted to kill him so they could "claim his inheritance".

Jesus was telling the disciples about His death. He tells the Temple Leaders and John's disciples that he was the Son of God, and they thought that maybe they would respect Him; but this was not going to be the case. 

"Didn't you read the Scriptures?" "The stone that the builders rejected has become the CORNERSTONE. This is the Lord's doing and it is beautiful to see."                                                                                                                   Mark 12:10&11 (NIV)

"Jesus asked his listeners: "What do you think the owner of the VINEYARD will do when he discovers his tenant farmers killed his son?" "I'll tell you, he'll come and kill the farmers and lease the VINEYARD to others." Luke 20:15&16 (NIV)

In this Parable Jesus reminds us that like Him, we, as His followers, will be  persecuted and undergo trials. His disciples may be led to the CROSS, yet, his RESURRECTION would finally lead us to VICTORY.

"But thanks be to God, who  gives us the VICTORY through our LORD JESUS CHRIST."                                                                                              1 Corinthians 15:57 (NKJV)

"Father, help us to FOLLOW JESUS' EXAMPLE, to STAY CLOSE TO HIM, to LISTEN TO HIS VOICE, READ HIS WORD, and SEEK HIS SPIRIT" Nicky Gumbel

                                                THE WEDDING FEAST

                                       Matthew 22:1-14,  Luke 14:16-24

"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding; and they were not willing to come." Matthew 22:2&3 (NKJV)

These people did not come to the wedding because they did not want to have a relationship with the son (Jesus). They didn't want to come on God's terms - for a special occasion - "a wedding", and they would not enter into Jesus' Kingdom. 

"In order to "eat  bread in God's Kingdom" to say "YES" when given an invitation, to His banquet (the wedding). You will have no second chance if you exclude yourself."                                                                                              Pat & David Anderson

The king was upset with those who didn't want to come to his wedding.  It was a huge priviledge to be invited, and to have a relationship with Him. But those who were invited mad excuses.  So, he told his servants:

"The Wedding Feast is ready, and the guests I invited aren't worthy of the honour. Now go out to the STREET CORNERS and INVITE EVERYONE YOU SEE. " So the servants brought in everyone they could find, good and bad alike, and the banquet hall was filled with GUESSTS." Matthew 22:8-10 (NLT)

When the king came in to see the guests, he saw one man who was not wearing "wedding clothes". He asked the man why he wasn't "dressed appropriately", and he didn't know what to say. The king had him bound, had thrown outside in the dark, where "there was weeping and gnashing of teeth,"

"Yes, MANY ARE UNVITED, but ONLY A FEW ARE CHOSEN." Matthew 22:14 (NCV)

"We can only get into God's KINGDOM if we have the GARMENT of SALVATION which is the FREE GIFT from JESUS. Jesus was rebuking the Pharisees for rejecting Him as Messiah.  We have been given the urgent task as SERVANTS to go and bring people into HIS HOUSE AS GUESTS.We are called  to announce the GOOD NEWS OF CHRIST - TO COMPEL!" Jordon Scott. 

"Lord, thank you for your LOVE; that you have INVITED US TO YOUR BANQUET! I ACCEPT YOUR INVITATION, and COME TO ENJOY an intimite relationdship with YOU!" Nicky Gumbel

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"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW KING JAMES VERSION" - (1982) Thomas Nelson

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION" - (2011), Biblica

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GUMBEL Nicky & Pippa, "The Bible in One Year", (2009/2025) Alpha International/          You Version

     

JESUS' STORIES - PARABLES

               

 

16. THE BARREN FIG TREE

                                                            Luke 13:6-9

In Luke we hear about another FIG TREE that is not bearing fruit. The owner of the Vineyard tells the servant to water it, and if it doesn't bear fruit, he is to cut it down. 

"Look, for three years, I have come seeking fruit in the fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?"  

"But he answered and said to Him, "Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, WELL. But if not, after that you can CUT IT DOWN."      Luke 13: 7b-9 (NKJV)

                          17.     THE LESSON OF THE WITHERED FIG TREE

                                                       MATTHEW 21:18-22

This scene is similar to that told in the parable in Luke, but Jesus is with his disciples by the FIG TREE. Jesus was hungry and wanted something to eat, but the fig tree was bearing NO FRUIT. 

"He said to it: "Let no fruit grow on it ever again". Immediately the FIG TREE WITHERED AWAY." Matthew 21:21:19b (NKJV)

The disciples wondered why it withered away so soon, and Jesus started talking about FRUIT AND FAITH! 

1. Just like the FIG TREE we need to bear fruit in our live, BELIEVING AND TRUSTING GOD.

2. Religious people are like the FIG TREE and they too do not OBEY GOD and bear fruit in their lives. They do not believe and follow Jesus' teaching. 

3. Like the disciples, we need to follow the KINGDOM OF FAITH. We all need to bear the FRUIT of repentance and FAITH, believing in Jesus, and change our lives.

"Truly, I tell you, if you have FAITH and do not doubt.....if you BELIEVE, you will receive what you ASK FOR IN PRAYER." Mathew 21:,21a & 22 (NIV)

"The Holy Bible - New International Version" - 2011, Biblica

"The Holy Bible - New King James Version" - 1982, Thomas Nelson

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"Jesus Cursed the Fig Tree: A Powerful Lesson on Faith and Fruitfulness", 2024, Joyful Bible Stories For Kids/You Tube

JESUS' STORIES - PARABLES

These next Parables are stories about Jesus' return:

                                                            1. Watchful Servants                                                                   Mark 13:35-37; Luke 12:25-40.

"ALWAYS BE READY! Otherwise HE MIGHT COME BACK suddenly and find you sleeping. I tell you this to everyone: "BE READY!" Mark 13:36&37 (NCV)

"So you also must BE READY, because the SON OF MAN will COME at a time WHEN YOU DON'T EXPECT HIM." Luke 12:40 (NCV)

                                                               2. Wise and Foolish Servants

                                                            Matthew 24:45-51 , Luke 12:42-48

"Who is the WISE AND LOYAL SERVANT that the Master trusts to give the OTHER SERVANTS  their food at the right time?" Matthew 24:45 (NCV)

"When the Master comes and FINDS THE SERVANT DOING HIS WORK, the SERVANT WILL BE BLESSED." Luke 12:43 (NCV)

                                                        3. The Ten Virgins                                                          Matthew 25:1-13

"At midnight someone cried out, "The BRIDEGROOM IS COMING! Come and meet Him! Then all the bridesmaids woke up and got their lampstands READY."                                                                                                              Matthew 25: 6&7 (NCV)

                                           13. WATCHFUL SERVANTS      
                                               

Jesus talked to His disciples about being WATCHFUL and PREPARED for HIS RETURN. He  tells them a story about a Master and His servants, whom he kept in charge of a household. He told them to be "vigilant and ready for is return". Jesus likened His disciples to these servants, and God entrusted them to be faithful as they waiting for JESUS RETURN!!

"Therefore KEEP WATCH because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back - whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn". Mark 13:35 (NIV)

"He may come in the middle of the night or just before dawn. But whenever HE COMES , He will reward His serants who ARE READY." Luke 12:38 (NLT)

"Watchfulness and active service go hand in hand." Max Lucado 

14.   THE WISE & FOOLISH SERVANTS

Jesus tells the second Parable of the Wise and Foolish Servants.  Like the previous parable which speaks of WATCHFULNESS in JESUS COMING, this one speaks of FAITHFULNESS. The master gives his servants responsibilities and duties while he is away.  The WISE SERVANT carries put these duties; while  the FOOLISH SERVANT mistreats the fellow servants, thinking the master will be delayed. 

When the master returned he "rewarded" the WISE, FAITHFUL SERVANT, and he made him "ruler over his possessions"  The FOOLISH SERVANT was punished for his drunkenness and "negligance". 

Jesus again told his disciples that they needed be "vigilant and faithful" , knowing the day and hour of His return.

"If the MASTER RETURNS and finds the SERVANT HAS DONE A GOOD JOB, there will BE A REWARD. I tell you the truth, the MASTER will PUT THE SERVANT IN CHARGE of all HE OWNS...... When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been ENTRUSTED WITH MUCH REREQUIRED." Luke 12:43,44 & 48b (NLT) 

"JESUS IS COMING! He loves you with an everlasting love, and he will never be turned off by your bad choices. He wants to give you the opportunity to make the RIGHT CHOICE - receive God's GOD'S LOVE, MERCY AND GRACE." Max Lucado. 

                                        15.  THE TEN VIRGINS

"At that time, the Kingdom of Heaven will be like 10 Virgins who took their lamps to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were FOOLISH and five were WISE. The FOOLISH ONES took their LAMPS but not their OIL with them. The WIISE ONES however, TOOK OIL IN JARS, with their LAMPS. The bridegroom, was a long time coming and they fell asleep."  Matthew 25:1&2 (ESV)

The Watchman tells that the Bridegroom (Jesus) is coming. But only the WISE VIRGINS HAD OIL FOR THEIR LAMPS. While the FOOLISH WENT OFF TO BUY OIL the BRIDEGROOM CAME. The virgins with lit lamps followed Him, but the foolish ones missed out. 

Jesus reminds us, that like the WISE VIRGINS we need to BE READY. We need to live a live a life of OBEDIENCE and LOVE for Jesus. We also need to LOVE OTHERS. 

"Ultimately, it's not WHAT you know, but WHO you know! Have a personal relationship with the bridegroom (Jesus)." Nicky Gumbel

This is the last of Matthew's & Luke's teachings on JESUS' speaks about his RETURN. He  talks with His disciples again, preparing them to be "ready for His return." We don't need to be afraid of judgement day, because we know that our sins have been FORGIVEN, "blotted out and remembered no more". We can surrender our lives to Christ, sharing our JOY!  But you do need to KEEP WATCH!

"So always BE READY, because you don't know the day the Lord will come.".....So YOU ALSO MUST BE READY because the Son of Man will come when you don't expect Him....No one knows the DAY OR HOUR , not even the angels in Heaven, not even the Son, but only the Father." Matthew 24:36,42,44 (NCV)

"Come to Jesus, and LAY YOUR PAST AND FUTURE INTO JESUS' HANDS."                  Max Lucado

"The Holy Bible: New Century Version", 2005, Thomas Nelson

"The Holy Bible: New International Version", 2011, Biblica

"The Holy Bible: Living Translation", 2015, Tyandale House Foundation

"The Holy Bible: English Standard Version", 2001, Crossway/Good News Publishers

"Parable of the Watchful Servants - Jesus is Coming Back", 2025, Word if Life Children's Bible Stories

"Jesus is Coming Soon", 2014, Matt Duncan (Tenor), Ben Duncan &  Caleleb Koble (Lead/Baritones), Josh Koble (Bass);  Redeemed Quartet, Gospel Classic/You Tube. 

LUCADO, Max, "The Devotional Bible - Experiencing the Heart of Jesus" - (2003), Thomas Nelson;    "Just Jesus", 2024, Gateway Church

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippa, "The Bible in One Year" (2009/2025) Alpha International/New Version

                                                         

 

JESUS' TEACHING - PARABLES

 

                               

                                            12. DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY

                                                             Read Matthew 10:26-31

"Are two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside of the FATHER'S CARE. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So DON'T BE AFRAID; your are WORTH MORE THAN MANY SPARROWS."   Matthew 10:30&31  (NIV)

Jesus is not only in control of our lives,  He loves us deeply. HE CARES ABOUT WHAT HAPPENS TO US! 

1. Christians are not exempt from anxiety. We have  trials and fears, and we can feel worried and guilty; but we can also TRUST in the Lord, and know that when we live in HIS PRESENCE and this song can remind us: "Don't worry, Be Happy".  The Word of God also reminds us:

"Come to me all you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you. Let me teach you because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you FIND REST for your souls. For MY YOKE IS EASY TO BEAR and the burden I give you IS LIGHT." 

Matthew 11:28-30 (NCV)

2. Are you being "pulled down" by problems , thinking that something bad is always going to happen. Are there days when you would rather stay in bed, and don't want to go to work, or anywhere in the world, or social gatherings, even Church. Here is a promise from God:

"Rejoice in the Lord ALWAYS. Let your gentleness be evident to all. BE ANXIOUS ABOUT NOTHING, but in everything bY PRAYER - SUPPLICATION, WITH THANKSGIVING, make your requests make known to God; the PEACE OF GOD, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your HEARTS and MINDS in CHRIST JESUS." Philippians 4:4-7 (NLT)

"Lord, thank you that you LOVE AND VALUE US so much. Help us to TRUST YOU and NOT BE AFRAID!" Nicky Gumbel

3. A number of years ago I faced my first flight on a plane, ALONE. well, I thought I was. I was ANXIOUS about flying and leaving my husband and son. When I got into the wrong seat I looked out the window at the wing - it seemed cracked? When I arrived at my destination, I discoved my luggage was lost. My ANXIETY LEVEL BEGAN TO RISE! 

I remembered the C.A.L.M Bible Study I had been reading from Max Lucado that morning. While the plane was in the sky I had looked over the cloud  and was reminded of GOD'S PROMISES. I don't believe that it is GOD'S WILL that we face a life of ANXIETY AND DREAD every day, but there are times we have to face some difficulties, and in these times we will always know that if we reach out to JESUS, HE WILL ALWAYS BE WITH US. 

"With God on your side you can face your FEARS. You can TRUST your Sovereign God. CELEBRATE God's goodness! ASK God for help! LEAVE your concerns with Him! MEDITATE on good things! With God as your helper, you can SLEEP better tonight and SMILE more tomorrow." Max Lucado

4. I often wake up in the morning with  "fear of the future". After my third stroke there are times  feel I have have let down my family  - especially my husband.  I used to cope well with change - moving around to different places, but now I often keep awake at night  wondering what each day will bring. I haven't got all the answers, but one thing I do know, GOD DOES! 

"CAST ALL YOUR ANXIETY ON HIM, because HE CARES FOR YOU." 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV)

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION" - 2015, Tyndale House Publishing

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW CENTURY VERSION", 2005, Thomas Nelson

GUMBEL, Nicky  &  Pippa, "The Bible in One Year- Classic Version", 2009/2025, ALPHA International/You Version

LUCADO, Max, "Life Lessons from Matthew", 2018, Thomas Nelson

"Don't Worry, Be Happy", (2014), Bob McFerrin (Composer/Singer),  Playing for Change Foundation. 

JESUS' TEACHING - PARABLES

                                   10. THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL 

"Then Jesus said to them, "Be careful and guard against all kinds of GREED. Life is not measured about how much one owns."  Then Jesus told this story: 

"There was a rich man who had some land and grew a GOOD CROP. He thought to himself: "What will I do? I have no place to keep all my crops." Then he said: "This is what I will do: I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my grain and other goods. Then I can say to myself , "I have enough good things stored to last for many years. Rest, eat, drink and ENJOY LIFE!" 

But God said to Him, "FOOLISH MAN! Tonight your life will be taken from you. So who will get those things you have prepared for yourself?" 

"This is how it will be for those who store up for themselves and are not rich toward God."  Luke 12:15-21 (NCV)

In this Parable, Jesus talks about a FOOL focusing on EARTHLY RICHES and GREED. He "neglects the state of his SPIRITUAL SOUL".  Later, HE DIES, leaving his WEALTH, without SHARING it with others or with the being "rich toward the Lord."

"Which steps can we take to ensure our priorities align with God's values rather than the worlds?"  (Stories of the Kingdom, Parales of Jesus)

                                       11. THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS

This story of the "Rich Man and Lazarus" is the only named character in Jesus' parables. The rich man has a lot of money and Lazarus is POOR, yet HE TRUSTS IN GOD!

"Later, Lazarus died, and was carried in the arms of Abraham to Heaven. The rich man also died  and was buried, he was in much pain....... He called out to Abraham, "Send Lazarus to cool my tongue , I am suffering in this fire." But Abraham said: "Child, remember when you were aliive, you had the good things in life, but bad things happened to Lazarus. Now he is comforted and you are suffering."                                                                                                    Luke 16:22, 24&25 (NCV)

Unlike Lazarus, who was a believer, the rich man did not go to Heaven, but HELL. He pleaded with Abraham to let him go home to tell his brothers the TRUTH. Abraham told the rich man that he had "wasted his days" with his money. He failed to "help the poor". He had been aware of Lazarus' needs  - his poverty and health, but he had refused to help him. This rich man's love for "materialism" and his lacked of a "relationship with God" - FAITH, HUMILITY and REPENTANCE had led his place in hell.

"If someone from the dead goes to my brothers they will REPENT. Abraham replied: "If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, they will not be convinced if someone rises from the dead." Luke 16:30&31 (MSG)

The rich man realized his mistakes but it was too late. He needed to REPENT and BELEVE when he was alive, by listening to Lazarus, and the Word of God.  He needed to show kindness to share his wealth with the poor. It was too late for his brothers, unless someone else could "communicate the TRUTH to them". 

"As convincing as it may be for someone to come back from the dead to warn others about HELL, GOD'S WORD is the MOST POWERFUL TESTIMONY about JESUS and the after life." Max Lucado   

Do you have friends or family who need to have a relationship with God? Jesus and Word of God (the Holy Scriptures) are the only GOOD NEWS. and you can't keep this to yourself! Look for a way today to share this NEWS OF SALVATION!

"I know that my REDEEMER LIVES, that in the end He will stand upon the earth. Even after my skin will be destroyed, (death). In my flesh, I WILL SEE GOD. I WILL SEE HIM MYSELF. I will see Him with MY VERY OWN EYES. How my heart wants that to happen!" Job 19:25-27 (NCV)

"THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW CENTURY VERSION", 2005, Thomas Nelson

"THE MESSAGE: THE BIBLE IN COMMENTARY LANGUAG", Eugene H Peterson, 2018, Tyndale  House Publishers

"THE PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL", (2025), Songs About Jesus/Music for Kids/      You Tube

"THE STORY OF THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS", (2024), The Word Stories/You Tube

"I KNOW THAT MY REDEEMER LIVERS" (2023), Keith & Kristyn Getty, Laura Story (Singer); Matt Merker, Matt Papa, Jordan Kanflinn (Composers), Getty Music/BMI

"STORIES OF THE KINGDOM- PARABLES OF JESUS." - (2025), PCPeopleChurch, You Version)

"JUST LIKE JESUS: A Heart Like Jesus - Devotional" , (2002) Max Lucado,               Thomas Nelson