Stories of the Saviour - Living Waters

Stories of the Saviour

“With many such parables he spoke the word to them–he did not speak to them except in parables.” (Mark 4:33)

The word parable means to “come along side.” It’s a story or illustration with a deeper, hidden meaning within it. Jesus seemed to delight in using common, everyday things–like seeds, a pearl, a coin, a fig tree–to teach spiritual truths. These stories not only show that Jesus was familiar with everyday life–they also reveal something of God’s heart. You want to know how God feels about His children, read the Parable of the Prodigal Son; you want to know how God feels about obedience, read the story of the houses built on rock and sand; you want to know how God feels about money, read the Parable of the Talents. Jesus was a master story-teller and through parables and stories, He reveals to us the mysteries of the Kingdom, and how we are to live our lives. The parables can be challenging–they force us to reflect on our everyday attitudes and actions; to step outside of our traditional understanding and ways of being; and call us to a higher level of obedience and commitment. Because of this, they’re perfect for study during Lent–a season that calls us to inner reflection, transformation, and growth. By looking at these earthly stories with heavenly meanings, this 6 week series will challenge us to look at our life, faith, and relationships–our own earthy stories–from a heavenly perspective.

SERMONS

Sermon: The Parable of the Sower

Preacher: The Rev. Christopher Doering

Date Preached: Sunday, March 5, 2017 – The 1st Sunday of Lent

Reading: Matthew 13:1-23

Handout: Part1.HO