Reading Time: 4 minutes
This lesson text is highly metaphoric. The main metaphor concerns a master and servant. But under that big-picture metaphor are at least eight others that make this text quite visual . . .
+The Lookout
May 15 | Application
Reading Time: 3 minutes
At first glance, “waiting” implies little more than passive, quiet expectation. But the word also refers to being ready for action—prepared to serve or obey.
May 15 | Discovery
Reading Time: 2 minutes
From this parable, what do you learn about how we should effectively and productively wait for Jesus’ return?
May 8 | The Story of the Poor Rich Man
Reading Time: 4 minutes
This is one of the few parables where Jesus inserts “God” into a secular story. God called the man a fool (not an atheist but someone who has no moral compass). Death is a great wake-up call. . . .
May 8 | Application
Reading Time: 3 minutes
I’m a sports fan, but I’m alarmed by the swift expansion of sports betting. Gambling is addictive and it threatens the integrity of athletic competition. . . .
May 8 | Discovery
Reading Time: 2 minutes
Recognizing that we all must “make a living,” how do we strike a balance between earthly possessions and being rich toward God?
May 1 | The Story of the Neighbors
Reading Time: 4 minutes
This parable began in reality, for there really was a road that went from Jerusalem to Jericho referred to as “The Bloody Way.” But for a Samaritan to help a Jew on that road? That was the point at which the true-to-life parable veered into fictional analogy. . . .
May 1 | Application
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Bad Samaritans evidently can become good ones. That’s why Jesus wanted the gospel to be preached in Samaria (Acts 1:8), and when it was, many Samaritans accepted Christ and were baptized (Acts 8:5-11).
May 1 | Discovery
Reading Time: 2 minutes
The expert in the law tried to justify himself before Jesus. Why is that a bad idea?