Going Deeper

Why Parables?

Chris Meade | Matthew 13:10-17 | June 1, 2025

Pastor Chris Meade emphasizes the power of stories, particularly the parables of Jesus, in connecting deeper truths and emotions to our understanding of the Kingdom of Heaven. He explains that while these parables may conceal truths from those who reject Jesus, they reveal profound insights to those who believe, emphasizing the importance of discerning the context and original audience of biblical teachings. The parables serve as a means to fulfill Old Testament prophecies, showcasing Jesus as the promised King whose message brings greater revelations about God’s reign. Ultimately, Pastor encourages believers to recognize their blessings in being disciples of Jesus, urging them to live out the values of His Kingdom in their daily lives.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. Where did the Holy Spirit speak or challenge you through God’s Word? Were there any “ah-ah” moments?

2. Re-read Matthew 13:10-17 and note the reasons Jesus shares why he teaches in parables. Underline where it says it is to conceal, reveal, and fulfill.

o What is your initial response to Jesus’ purposes for parables? What questions come up to mind?

3. Chris talked in his message about Jesus concealing the “greater truths” or the revelations of the Kingdom of Heaven, from those who had rejected what is primary—rejecting the King of the kingdom. Read Matthew 7:6

o What does Jesus’ focus here on not giving more revelation to those who have rejected the revelation of Jesus teach you about what is primarily important to Jesus?

o How can we live out Jesus’ model for what to focus on and share what is primary with people who:

+ Are antagonistic and want nothing to do with Jesus…

+ Are searching for truth and looking into the claims of Jesus…

+ Those who are following Jesus as disciples…

4. Re-Read Matthew 13:13-15 and then Isaiah 6:8-10

o Put yourself in Isaiah’s shoes for a moment and imagine being called to be obedient in a ministry where God says from the very beginning that no one will listen or respond.

+ How would you respond?

+ Have you ever been discouraged in your obedience to God in seasons of not seeing much benefit?

+ How can trusting in Jesus and His sovereignty over His Kingdom help keep you in obedience to God’s call on your life, even when you aren’t seeing much fruit or personal benefit? Did any of the examples in the message strike a chord?

I Belong… To God

Chris Meade | Various Scripture | May 25, 2025

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. Where did the Holy Spirit speak or challenge you through God’s Word? Were there any “ah-ah” moments?

2. This week we sent out a S.H.A.P.E. test (https://www.freeshapetest.com/):

o If you haven’t taken the test, please take it.

o What are some practical steps you can take to ensure you are aiming for the right "bullseye" in your spiritual life?

o What did this teach you about yourself and God’s direction for you?

3. Read Romans 12: 3-8, 1 Corinthians 12:1-31, and 1 Peter 4:10-11:

o What does do these passages teach you about God, gifts, and our responsibility with them?

o Ephesians 4:7 says that these are “grace gifts”—that they are purely grace (unmerited favor). Why is that important to know when thinking about your gifts, or others?

4. Identity and Satisfaction:

o Chris shard the power of saying: “I know who I am (my identity in Christ)…and I like it.” How is this different from, “I know all my flaws…and like it.”? Can you say with all authenticity, you like the person God has made you to become?

o How does understanding your identity in Christ impact your daily life and ministry?

o In what ways have you found (or seen in others) satisfaction when operating within your God-given SHAPE (Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, Experiences)?

5. Practical Application:

o Where are you serving at Mountainview? How do you see yourself living out your “FIT” in your service?

o How can a starting point “1 Hour…1 Service…1 Sunday a month” help people engage in serving within their fit? If you aren’t serving, is this something you are willing to do? Where might you start?

6. Possible Places of Service:

o Children’s Ministry.

- Contact: Amy Ensign (amy@mtnvw.org)

- Sunday morning check-in

- Nursery

- Teachers/co-teachers

- Other

o Youth Ministry.

- Contact: Kyle Broyer (kyle@mtnvw.org)

- Sunday morning check-in

- Male and female student leaders

- Other