Loading Content...
Share a Link to this Message
The link has been copied to your clipboard; paste it anywhere you would like to share it.
CloseManny Pereira - February 7, 2021
The Outrageous Kingdom
The kingdom of heaven is like a scandalous situation. That is the point of the parable. The impossibility of salvation with man immediately before (19:26) and the cross of Christ immediately after (20:17-19) couches this parable in a profound context. Jesus is illustrating the principle given in response to Peter: God is debtor to none. But here, He goes still further. God is gracious to whom He wills. Mercy, not merit is our only plea. Jesus shows that the self-righteous (“the first”) are outraged by grace. Grace is outrageous to those who work hard and sacrifice and suffer to receive a payoff. Yet, the outrage of “the first” is best seen in connection with “the last.” This story brings out the unfairness of God’s grace. It is a parable designed to offend the proud and self-sufficient. It foretells the offense of Christ and the scandal of the cross. It explains why the offer of the kingdom is offensive—even outrageous.
Scripture References: Matthew 20:1-16
From Series: Toward the Kingdom | More Messages from Manny Pereira | Download Audio
From Series: "Toward the Kingdom"
More Messages Associated With "Parables"...
May 10, 2020
Few Will Understand: The Parable of the Sower
Manny Pereira
Matthew 13:3-9, Matthew 13:18-23
May 17, 2020
Sham Religion: The Parable of the Weeds
Manny Pereira
Matthew 13:24-30, Matthew 13:36-43
May 24, 2020
Small Beginnings: The Parables of the Mustard Seed and Leaven
Manny Pereira
Matthew 13:31-33
May 31, 2020
Surpassing Worth: The Parables of the Treasure and Priceless Pearl
Manny Pereira
Matthew 13:44-46
June 14, 2020
New Expectations: The Parable of the Dragnet
Manny Pereira
Matthew 13:47-50
June 21, 2020
Transforming Revelation: The Parable of the Householder
Manny Pereira
Matthew 13:51-52