Chapter 23

Jesus had audiences of different backgrounds, and He used parables with familiar characters and objects such as farmers, shepherds, people in authority, plants, and seeds, to convey a moral or spiritual lesson.

The Parable of the Wedding Feast is a reminder that many were invited to celebrate God’s gift of His son to the world. Those who rejected Jesus turned down the gift to heaven and salvation. “For many are called but few are chosen.” Matthew 22:14

Religious leaders, one a priest, the other a Levite, walk past the other side of the victim of the assault without offering any help. A Samaritan, often despised by religious leaders, stops, binds his wounds, takes him to an inn, and pays the bill. The teaching of the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is that we should always show mercy and compassion to those in need, and to love our neighbors as ourselves.

At the final judgement, people are separated into two groups. Those who showed compassion and love to those in need are like sheep and on the right side of Jesus. Those who neglected the people in need and showed no compassion, are like goats and are on the left side. The message of The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Luke 10:25-37) like that of the Good Samaritan, is a reminder that God expects us to care for those in need.

“He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden, and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.”” Luke13:18-19

The Parable of the Mustard Seed encourages believers to have faith and assures them that The Kingdom of God, though starting as a tiny mustard seed, will ultimately flourish into a large and majestic tree.

“For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:11.

In today’s world, a banquet should not be an extravagant showcase of affluence. Instead, when you have a reason to celebrate, such as a birthday, contemplate hosting the gathering at an orphanage, hospital, or another establishment that supports the less fortunate. Attendees can contribute gifts to the institution rather than offering presents solely to the honoree. By doing so, your blessings will be multiplied a thousand fold.

While God’s love is unconditional, forgiveness is contingent upon a sincere change of heart and genuine repentance. Luke 15:11-32