Kingdom of Heaven Parables

We’ve been discussing cognitive dissonance and prior knowledge in relation to the ministry of Christ. We’ve explored how Christ’s teaching methods help navigate through cognitive dissonance. 

Over the last two weeks, our focus on prior knowledge has led us to the idea that Christ’s ministry is centered around change. This change implies a new way of seeing things, particularly that the kingdom of heaven is present here and now, rather than being in some distant time or place.

As I contemplated this theme this week, I was drawn back to the concept of moving from concrete to abstract thinking. The idea of the kingdom of heaven, being abstract in nature, becomes more tangible when we think of it as existing in our current reality. This shift between concrete and abstract thinking can be aided by applying and analyzing our current knowledge.

A teaching strategy that often aids in this analysis is the compare-and-contrast method, which helps students to analyze their knowledge base by comparing two different concepts. Reflecting on Christ’s ministry, a prime example of this is found in Matthew 13, often referred to as the ‘parable chapter’. In this chapter, Jesus presents several parables that serve as compare-and-contrast examples, each starting with ‘The kingdom of heaven is like…’. This framing sets the stage for understanding through comparison.

Let’s examine these parables with a new focus, considering what they reveal about change and urgency, based on our recent discussions. The first parable is that of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32): ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.’ Jesus then presents the parable of the leaven (Matthew 13:33-34): ‘The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about 60 pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough.’

Following these, in Matthew 13:44, Jesus says: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.’ This is immediately followed by the parable of the pearl of great price (Matthew 13:45-46): ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.’

Finally, the last of the compare-and-contrast parables is the parable of the net (Matthew 13:47-50): ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets but threw the bad away. This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

These parables, delivered in a rapid sequence, create a compare-and-contrast lesson, emphasizing the kingdom of heaven as an immediate reality and prompting a change in perception and thought. As we review these parables, let’s consider the nature of the change they illustrate and any sense of urgency they might convey.

C-J: I see a process with a beginning, a middle, and an end. The focus is often on the end, but it’s important to recognize that throughout this journey, various events can occur—nets may get tangled, storms may arise. However, every step of this process contributes to gaining wisdom and knowledge, preparing us for the transformation at the journey’s end. Take fishing, for instance: understanding when, how, and where to fish is a process that extends beyond mere faith; it’s experiential.

Donald: Some of you might not appreciate what ChatGPT might say about the kingdom of heaven, but let’s consider its view: “The kingdom of heaven, as mentioned in various religious teachings, especially in Christianity, refers to a spiritual realm or state where God reigns supreme. It’s where those aligned with God’s will find ultimate fulfillment, peace, and eternal life after death. In Christianity, teachings of Jesus Christ describe the kingdom of heaven as embodying righteousness, love, mercy, and justice. It’s portrayed as both a present reality in the hearts of believers and a future realm where God’s sovereignty is fully realized. This concept encompasses different interpretations, from a literal place after death to a metaphysical state experienced in life through spiritual awakenings. It’s interesting that it can be perceived as both a present and future entity, like the separation of fish in the net parable, suggesting a choice to be part of God’s kingdom now, in mindset and behavior, rather than waiting for an afterlife.”

Michael: What exactly are we contrasting here?

Jay: The contrast could be between viewing the kingdom of heaven as a current reality versus a future event. Another contrast might be our perception of the kingdom of heaven versus Christ’s portrayal of it. Does this give us a different understanding of the kingdom of heaven, temporally speaking? Is it something immediate rather than futuristic? This is particularly relevant in the context of the Jewish expectation of a Messiah who would usher in the kingdom of heaven at a specific future time. 

The contrast here might be this change in understanding—that the kingdom isn’t just a switch from earthly to heavenly realms at a future date but something we are actively part of now.

Michael: It’s interesting because the expectation of Christians mirrors that of the Jews in some ways. The anticipation for Christ’s return for the realization of eternal life seems similar to the Jewish expectation for the Messiah’s arrival.

C-J: Let’s consider this: if Christians believe our work is done on Earth and heaven is a vacation, that seems off. When we look at other beings God has set to minister to humans, it seems we might have roles in heaven too. It doesn’t align with God’s nature to not use His vessels, perhaps in other dimensions, or even to return to this dimension. Maybe in heaven, we’ll have different levels or capacities of what we can do.

Carolyn: In my understanding, the thief on the cross represents a pivotal moment. It signifies that each of us will face a decisive moment for Christ, leading us towards the promise He has given. This decision is a contrast between immediate gratification and future promises. We all face this choice, as God separates the wheat from the tares. 

The kingdom of heaven, though, comes to each of us at a certain point in our lives. It’s not a one-time event. God is always there, inviting us, but there’s a special moment when the kingdom of heaven becomes a reality for us, allowing us to choose to be with Him both here and in heaven.

Jay: Michael’s point is well-taken about the Jews of Jesus’ time waiting for a Messiah to improve their lives, and Christians awaiting the Second Coming for a better life. This notion of waiting for something transformative is common, not just in spiritual or religious contexts. 

Are these parables in alignment with this idea of waiting for change? Is Christ suggesting a different approach to this mainstream thought process? Does He propose a shift in perspective through these parables?

C-J: Revisiting the point about Jesus’ ministry being short: Most place it around three years. However, considering the story where Jesus, as a child, was teaching in the temple, it’s clear that God had always been present in Him. Jesus had a deep understanding of His purpose and mission. He wasn’t just knowledgeable about the scriptures; He was intentional about teaching others to look beyond the temporal, beyond what the Roman Empire had done. He wanted people to focus on something greater, to prepare spiritually, to seek a relationship with the divine, and find community within their faith.

Don: A few weeks ago, Michael introduced the concept of the kingdom of heaven being synonymous with grace. He suggested that if the kingdom of heaven is equated with grace, it should be more about divine intervention than human effort. 

How do these parables illustrate the balance of responsibility between us and God in relation to grace and the kingdom of heaven? Jesus seems to be steering us from concrete interpretations towards a spiritual understanding.

David: There’s an apparent contradiction in the idea of selling everything for a treasure or a pearl. It implies that attaining the kingdom requires a sacrifice, yet the kingdom is within our reach. Our responsibility seems to be to relinquish everything in order to grasp this treasure. However, as we’ve discussed, this is often a difficult step to take.

Carolyn: It’s about accepting grace. We all have the opportunity to receive it, as it is offered by God. Dr. Weaver highlighted the contrast well. We’re presented with an opportunity by God, and we also have the prospect of heaven at the end. But it’s our choice to accept the kingdom of heaven when it’s offered to us and when our eyes are opened to it.

Donald: The concept of size seems significant in these parables. Consider the mustard seed and yeast: small in size, yet immensely powerful. Grace, akin to the pearl in the parable, changes everything once it’s accepted. It’s small in form but permeates all aspects of life once a relationship with Christ is established.

C-J: I would replace ‘size’ with ‘potential.’ I believe God sees us as vessels of potential, not in equal measure, but each uniquely capable. Like the Samaritan, who, despite his condition, had great potential to inspire grace in others. Potential isn’t just material wealth; it can be as humble as the widow’s mite, representing complete trust in God. God has endowed each of us with unique potential to be used in various ways. It’s not about the portion we receive but the intention behind it.

Donald: I still believe size matters here. It’s about recognizing our own insignificance in comparison to God’s greatness. We are small, yet He sees great potential in us.

C-J: But consider the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. Was one life more valuable than another? Christ’s message was that all would be welcomed, regardless of their past. His promise was equal, not based on merit but intended to demonstrate grace. It’s about learning from His sacrifice, understanding the grace of God, which is given in equal measure to all.

Jay: Dr. Weaver raises a crucial point. Depending on whether we view the kingdom of heaven as a present reality or a future promise, does our spiritual responsibility change? Does the parable suggest a different role for us in the kingdom of heaven, whether it’s now or in the future? Through both lenses, do the parables convey different messages or reinforce the same concept?

Carolyn: I firmly believe that when we accept the grace of the kingdom of heaven, regardless of the parable, our decision is for the now. We might not know what tomorrow brings, but our kingdom of heaven starts with our decision today. However, this decision also prepares us for the eventual kingdom of heaven we’ve accepted through grace.

Jay: That introduces another key word often associated with the kingdom of heaven: preparation. Can we prepare for something happening now, or is it always about preparing for the future? And how do these parables address preparation in the context of the kingdom of heaven being a present or future reality?

C-J: Preparation is always necessary; it’s about realizing our potential. We may have the potential to be a leader, but we need training in leadership skills, tools, and language. Daily preparation, like making your bed or driving to work, is essential for success. Anticipating needs is crucial. When I first moved into my apartment, I assembled a toolbox. Basic tools can accomplish a lot. This concept of preparation is emphasized in the Bible, from the Exodus to Joseph and Mary’s journey to Bethlehem. 

Preparation is a natural sequence in life, like giving birth. From planting the seed to nurturing a baby into a responsible adult, every stage requires learning and adapting to change. Whether you’re a shepherd, Pharisee, or carpenter, becoming a lifelong learner is vital to cope with inevitable change.

Donald: I’ve been contemplating a life timeline. After accepting Christ, grace changes your life and behavior. But as life progresses, your influence and focus shift. In your productive years, you can make a significant impact, but as you age, your focus turns inward, and your capacity to influence diminishes. The ‘kingdom of heaven is at hand’ seems to change with each life stage. It’s something to ponder – how our life’s timeline impacts our experience of the kingdom of heaven.

Don: Do you see the change we’re discussing as primarily self-driven, based on personal decisions and viewpoints, or as a divine effort?

C-J: Humans are like adolescents who know right from wrong but sometimes need guidance. I believe that’s how God interacts with us. There’s no expiration date on our lives. Even in death, there’s something to learn—about the person, a good death, or life’s unpredictability. There’s always learning, even when we’re incapacitated. God uses us as instruments, teaching those who care for us or our loved ones. My relationship with God has been transitional, constantly adjusting to stay on the right path.

Donald: A 97-year-old woman of my acquaintance is unable to form new memories but chooses to be happy and thrives on routine. Her nightly prayers are a profound expression of her faith, deeply affecting her caregiver. Even in her advanced age, she makes a difference. So yes, we can make a difference at any stage of life, though the nature of our journey and our ability to influence change over time.

Reinhard: The parable about the mustartd seed is about good people. God placed a good man on Earth, and like the seed growing into a big tree that helps birds perch on its branches, I think this symbolizes predestination. Some people are born to worship and become ‘good people’, growing into big trees that share love and benefit others. There’s mutual benefit among God’s people. The field represents the Earth. 

The other parable talks about the weeds that Satan planted, indicating the presence of bad people destined for destruction. Considering these parables, our efforts must start from within, but God will assist us through the Holy Spirit. Regarding grace, as mentioned in 2 Timothy, it was given to us in Christ Jesus before time began but revealed through His coming. Grace prepares and completes us as followers of God, helping us overcome shortcomings and fulfill our destiny in God’s kingdom.

Michael: The first four parables could be interpreted in various ways. But the net parable seems to have a clear interpretation. When you view all the other parables in the light of this one, it seems they’re all about the judgment, about the separation of the good and the bad.

The net parable is about the separation of good and bad. We don’t read it neutrally; we read it from a heavily biased standpoint, thinking of it as a judgment parable. It makes us focus on being among the ‘good’ by doing certain things.

Jay: That parable is indeed a bit more complex, as it seems like two parables in one. The focus should be on the net, but we often see mainly the angel part at the end. The kingdom of heaven is compared to a net, not the angels deciding who’s good or bad. Yet, we focus on the dividing part, because we want a final point, a black and white distinction. 

Each parable has an item and an action associated with it. For example, in the seed parable, the action is growth; in the leaven, it’s working into flour; in the treasure, it’s finding and selling; in the pearl, seeking and selling; and in the net, casting and retrieving. These actions might provide new insights into the nature of change and who’s driving it. 

We can explore these actions in more detail next week.

Michael: When Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a mustard seed, treasure, or a net, I think it’s clear we can’t create any of these ourselves. They represent God’s prerogative. The question for me is, do I grow the tree from the seed, or does God?

Carolyn: I believe we have a choice, as the kingdom of heaven is at hand. With grace, I’ve accepted God and His Holy Spirit to guide me through each of these parables. When it comes to judgment, it’s about constantly aligning our lives with God, as we can’t do it alone.

Donald: It’s about the potential within. A mustard seed by itself can’t change; it has potential because God instilled it with the capacity to do so. Each element in these parables has potential only because of what God has gifted.

David: The parable of the pearl and treasure seem to require action, unlike the others. For example, the net just picks up good or bad fish, and the mustard seed and yeast just exist and things happen. So, it’s confusing; I think we still have a lot to unravel about these parables.

C-J: I noticed that too, especially with the money and selling aspects. It made me think of commodities and market value. Desperate people might undersell due to urgency, while those with abundance can wait for the right time. I don’t think God views us as commodities; it’s more about how humans think. The other parables are driven by grace, but the treasure and pearl involve human will. It’s an interesting contrast.

Don: That ties into Carolyn’s interpretation about finding the pearl by accident, a gift of grace. Then, there’s the effort to keep it. Grace is extended to us, but there’s also a part we play in accepting and keeping it.

Jay: If we consider the items in the parables as the kingdom of heaven or grace, what are the corresponding actions? Are these actions human-driven or divine? It seems both perspectives could apply. We’ve identified some parables that stand out, like the treasure and pearl. Next week, we’ll add three more parables—the laborers in the vineyard, the ten virgins, and the unforgiving servant—and continue exploring this theme.

Carolyn: Here’s a thought: when considering the good and bad fish, does it bring fear out of grace? Over grace? in grace?

Reinhard: Maybe Jesus’ encouragement to sell everything for the kingdom of heaven is a call to do whatever it takes to obtain something so valuable. It’s about prioritizing the kingdom above all else.

Don: This might suggest that we need to let go of everything we can generate and everything we’re responsible for, to fully receive God’s grace.

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