Direct Answer
The parables give the finished picture first, so hard pieces can be placed with more confidence. They point to obedience to Jesus, personal responsibility and the fruit of godliness as what will matter at the judgment.
Support from the Message
- Bill was stalled on a hard puzzle until he looked at the box lid, and then he finished the rug in about 15 minutes. - He says we often force theological pieces together and then have to explain away the rest of Scripture. - He says the simple stories of Jesus give us a jumpstart. - He says we know where the discussion will land: obedience to Jesus, the fruit of godliness and personal choice. - He closes by asking how the picture in our lives and our teaching matches what Jesus said His kingdom is like.
Discussion Follow-up
Which teaching have you tried to force into place? Which parable could help you see the picture more clearly, and what in your life would need to change?