PARABLES OF JESUS – Parochialism
Matthew 21:40-41
" 'Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vinedressers?' They said to Him, 'He will destroy those wicked men miserably, and leave his vineyard to other vinedressers who will render to him the fruits in their season.' "
The meaning of this parable was apparent to those to whom Jesus is speaking. He was telling them that their rejection of Him would open the door of God's kingdom to the nations of the world. The Jews thought they had a corner on God. After all, over and over again He had called them "My people." But because of their rejection, the greater plan of God was displayed – for the nations of the world to be included. "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son...." (John 3:16). Even to Abraham, their father, God had promised that through Him "all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (Genesis 12:3). And, to use another metaphor, Jesus had said, "Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear my voice; and there will be one flock and one Shepherd" (John 10:16). I need to remember that God's vineyard – God's flock – is larger than my little group. There are people around the world in many denominations who are in His flock. I'm grateful that I am one of the "other sheep," but I need to guard against a parochialism that sees me and my group as the only ones in God's kingdom.
TODAY'S THOUGHT: The kingdom of God includes people from many nations and many denominations.
Have an "inclusive" day. Love you.
Matthew 21:40-41
" 'Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vinedressers?' They said to Him, 'He will destroy those wicked men miserably, and leave his vineyard to other vinedressers who will render to him the fruits in their season.' "
The meaning of this parable was apparent to those to whom Jesus is speaking. He was telling them that their rejection of Him would open the door of God's kingdom to the nations of the world. The Jews thought they had a corner on God. After all, over and over again He had called them "My people." But because of their rejection, the greater plan of God was displayed – for the nations of the world to be included. "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son...." (John 3:16). Even to Abraham, their father, God had promised that through Him "all the families of the earth shall be blessed" (Genesis 12:3). And, to use another metaphor, Jesus had said, "Other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear my voice; and there will be one flock and one Shepherd" (John 10:16). I need to remember that God's vineyard – God's flock – is larger than my little group. There are people around the world in many denominations who are in His flock. I'm grateful that I am one of the "other sheep," but I need to guard against a parochialism that sees me and my group as the only ones in God's kingdom.
TODAY'S THOUGHT: The kingdom of God includes people from many nations and many denominations.
Have an "inclusive" day. Love you.
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