Not that the kingdom of heaven is something we can literally buy, but its reception involves a renunciation, a personal sacrifice that not everyone is willing to make. So, are we willing to give everything up for the kingdom or not? That is the question.
All by Pablo Sanabria
Matthew 25:1-13: The Parable of the Ten Young Women
But as we wait for Christ’s return, we are to “dress ready for service” and have our “lamps burning,” sharing the gospel of salvation by grace with the lost; instilling hope to the desperate; comforting the broken in spirit; advocating for those who cannot defend themselves; standing by the side of the vulnerable; denying ourselves and taking up our cross every day; imparting grace on our brothers and sisters; worshipping God with joy, gratitude and a humble and fervent heart; clothed in the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:11-16). This is the meaning of being ready.
It is a Matter of the Heart, Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23
Jesus not only explains in the parables of the kingdom the causes of this rejection, but also instills in his disciples hope and optimism. Not all the effort of preaching will be in vain! In the end, there will be a bountiful harvest, the weeds will be burned, the mustard seed will become a huge tree, and the yeast will make the flour grow.
The Parable of the Rich Fool, Luke 12:13-21
Living for the kingdom of God is the antithesis of living selfishly. It means being rich “toward God,” that is, investing in the kingdom of God, “enjoying this world, as though we had no enjoyment, for the form of this world is passing away’.
The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares, Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
Jesus’ teaching here is that the children of the kingdom will have to wait until harvest time to see evil completely destroyed. This waiting, however, does not imply conforming to the world or indifference to its injustices.
Redeemed, Ephesians 1:7-8a
How great and enduring should our gratitude be? It should be immeasurable and eternal. And how can we show it? By remaining at His feet, serving His cause, confessing before the world that He was “wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities, and by his stripes we are healed.”
Adopted, Ephesians 1:5-6
God adopted the unadoptable—you and me. He did not care for our defects and disabilities. He just wanted to make us members of His family, to be our Father again, to make us His beloved children again.
Chosen, Ephesians 1:3-4
To be “in Christ” means to be united with him like a branch to a tree; it means belonging to him, participating in his life and divine nature. We are God’s chosen people because we decided to be “in Christ.”
God’s Providence, Romans 8:28
How do I explain these seemingly unconnected events? Was I lucky? Was it a coincidence of various events? No. I believe it was God’s providence in action.
Dead and Risen with Christ, Colossians 2:20-3:4
The desire to feel spiritually superior has always haunted some people in the church and has usually led to an arrogant legalism and division.
The Restoration of All Things, Romans 8:18-23
The children of God have the firstfruits of the Spirit. The Spirit is the first delivery, it is the guarantee that there will be a full harvest.
Ministerial Insights in Colossians 1:24-2:7
The Christian minister—if genuine—will have marks on his body and soul. This is part of the cost that a servant of God must pay.
Eschatological Thoughts from Philippians
Sometimes we become impatient regarding Jesus’s promise to come again to take us home. Oh, but he will come! And his coming will be like a bright and fresh spring dawn.
Thyatira: Conformation and Excessive Toleration (Revelation 2:18-29)
Christ is alive and present among His church. He knows us well and has the power to help us overcome our spiritual challenges but will not tolerate persistent disobedience.
An Empty House: Luke 11:24-26
Self-righteousness is simply an empty house, a risky spiritual condition that attracts all kind of demons. Our house must be filled with God’s Spirit.
Servants Called and Set Apart
What kept Paul’s fire for Christ burning even in his old age? I believe it was the conviction of his calling. He knew exactly who he was and what he existed for.
The Complementarity of Male and Female in the Genesis Creation Account
Inequality of sexes was not God’s original idea but a consequence of the fall; therefore, it is temporary in nature and destined to disappear under the reign of Christ.
Christian Minister Metaphors
The Christian minister is a soldier for Christ’s sake, an athlete who runs from everything that hinders him, and a hardworking farmer who will enjoy the fruits of his efforts.
The Old Man and the Sea, Hopelessness and Christian Faith
Faith in God gives meaning to our life and provides us with the emotional and spiritual strength necessary to endure the harshest realities.
In the Name of Jesus: A Reflection on Christian Leadership
Using two passages from the New Testament—Matthew 4:1-11 and John 21:15-19—Henri Nouwen offers us a profound reflection about the type of leadership Christ wants for his church.