RBC Sermon Series
Parables of the Kingdom
In this ten-week sermon series, we examine Jesus’ teachings on the
Kingdom of Heaven through parables He taught in the Gospel of Matthew.
Introduction to the Parables
June 30, 2024
Doug Virgint begins a new series on Parables of the Kingdom, emphasizing how Jesus uses familiar concepts to teach unfamiliar lessons. By dissecting the parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:30-37, the sermon highlights the significance of genuine compassion, criticizes the superficial adherence to religious laws, and underscores that God judges the heart and motivations of individuals.
The Parable of the Sower
July 7, 2024
Joash John focuses on the Parable of the Sower from Matthew 13:3-23, emphasizing the different types of soil which represent various heart responses to the Word of God. We learn that the results of hearing the Gospel depend on the state of one's heart, not the skill of the sower or the seed. The sermon concludes with a call for self-examination of one's heart and the importance of spreading the Gospel, encouraging believers to sow seeds of faith widely and trust in God's ability to transform hearts.
The Parables of the Weeds, the Mustard Seed, and the Yeasts
July 14, 2024
Bolaji Jegede explores three parables from Matthew 13:24-43, explaining how they illustrate the coexistence of good and evil in the present kingdom of heaven on earth, the eventual judgment and separation of the righteous and wicked, and the transformative power and influence of the kingdom of God, which starts small but grows significantly. This sermon encourages believers to stay vigilant, trust in God's perfect timing for judgment, and continue making a positive impact in their communities.
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
July 21, 2024
Louis Bridgman focuses on two parables from Matthew 13:44-53, highlighting that the Kingdom of Heaven is depicted as possessing immense worth that merits total commitment. He emphasizes that Jesus taught these parables to show His disciples—and us—the unparalleled value of God’s Kingdom. He calls believers to examine themselves and determine where our true commitments lie and to prioritize the Kingdom of Heaven over all else.
The Parables of the Net and the Householder
July 28, 2024
Louis Bridgman continues the study of Jesus' parables about the Kingdom of Heaven from Matthew 13:44-53. The central message of these parables is that God's Kingdom is open to everyone, but not everyone will be open to it. He emphasizes that only those who follow Jesus faithfully and produce spiritual fruit will be welcomed into the Kingdom, while hypocrites and the wicked will face judgment.
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
August 4, 2024
Nathaniel Nurse delves into the parable of the Unforgiving Servant from Matthew 18:21-35, centering on the theme of forgiveness. It stresses that forgiveness is a critical aspect of being a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven. The parable illustrates that we are to forgive others, not just because Jesus commands it, but also for our own well-being, to avoid bitterness, and to stay connected with God's peace. The sermon also highlights that understanding our own forgiveness through Christ empowers us to forgive others. Ultimately, Jesus’ immense forgiveness and sacrifice on the cross serve as the ultimate model for us to follow.
The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard
August 11, 2024
Dave Brereton explores the concept of grace within Christianity, emphasizing how God's grace is an unmerited, undeserved favor. Through the parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16), he illustrates how comparing ourselves to others and a nurturing a sense of entitlement can make Christians miserable. The message encourages believers to embrace grace wholeheartedly and avoid legalistic tendencies or a transactional relationship with God. Ultimately, it calls for a shift in perspective to appreciate and extend grace as a core value of the Kingdom of God.
The Parable of the Wedding Banquet
August 25, 2024
Glenn Smith delves into the Parable of the Wedding Banquet (Matthew 22:1-14), emphasizing God's continual invitation to everyone -- both the good and the bad -- to join His Kingdom. He connects this parable to the broader biblical narrative of God's grace and election, underscoring that while God's invitation is open and gracious, it requires a response that aligns with His expectations. This message highlights that being part of God's Kingdom necessitates embracing His virtues and living a life that reflects His justice and righteousness.
The Parable of the Ten Virgins
September 1, 2024
This sermon, based on the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), focuses on the importance of being prepared for Jesus' return and judgment. The parable is used to draw a clear distinction between those who are spiritually ready for Christ's return and those who are not. The speaker emphasizes the necessity of inner readiness and genuine relationship with Jesus over mere outward appearances and actions. By examining the broader context of Jesus' teachings on the Kingdom of Heaven, the sermon encourages believers to cultivate kingdom character and remain spiritually vigilant, echoing the urgency of knowing and following Jesus with all aspects of life.
The Parable of the Talents
September 8, 2024
Nick Azzuolo's sermon on the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) underscores the importance of stewardship and faithfully using the resources and abilities God has entrusted to us. He emphasizes that true stewardship involves recognizing Jesus as Lord, practicing self-denial, pursuing true righteousness, exhibiting courage, and being diligent.