Parables of the Kingdom
Parable of the Kingdom – Matthew 13:24-43
GC discussion questions
1. Read Matthew 13:24-43. From the message on Sunday, were there any new insights you received concerning the text? What specific insights did you gain concerning The Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds?
2. Pastor Jim stated, that as we live for Christ and his kingdom, what we can experience after this life in the heavenly kingdom are, “Retirement benefits that are out of this world.” What are some of those benefits? How should knowledge of this motivate you to live for kingdom treasures over earthly treasures? Are there earthly treasures you’ve been willing to give up to attain greater heavenly treasures?
3. Read Matthew 13:31-32. What is the kingdom significance of such a small seed becoming such a huge tree? (A - the kingdom expands from the days of small beginnings, dramatically & externally throughout the world in a myriad of ways)
4. Read Matthew 13:33. What is the kingdom significance of leaven or yeast spreading through the entire 50lbs of flour? (A – The kingdom radically transforms individual lives from the inside out)
5. How do you see IFC, in its own days of small beginnings, revealing evidence of the kingdom of heaven externally growing in our world and internally in the lives of family members at the church? (Be specific as to IFC ministries. Maybe even use this time to share the evidence you see in fellow GC members’ lives.)
6. Read Matthew 13:40-43. In this text Jesus speaks specifically about the afterlife – the eternal destiny for believers and unbelievers alike. Share with the group how this personally impacts your life. Are there specific things or people that come to mind?
7. Pastor Jim stated that he felt as if the main point of the message Jesus was sending was, “Let the wheat and the weeds grow together until the harvest.” What is the personal message you received? How does it impact your view of the weeds & life going forward?
8. Pastor Jim stated that what we often forget about when speaking of a kingdom, is the fact that there is a king. He stated that Jesus’ only expectation of his children is surrendering everything to him as king. Is Jesus the King who sits on the throne of your heart and the one you’ve given control over all things concerning your life? Explain.
