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11/07/2026 The Gospel: Encouragement; Luke 4: 18

09/27/2026 The Parables of Jesus: The Hidden Treasure; Mathew 13

11/01/2026 The Gospel: Enrichment; Luke 4: 18

10/25/2026 The Gospel: Evangelism; Luke 4: 18

Three Tiers of Biblical Knowledge (2 Timothy 3:15): Essential Understanding for Justification: Knowing the foundational truth of the Gospel—that we are sinners and Jesus died, was buried, and rose again to save us. Expanding Knowledge for Sanctification: Moving beyond the basics (like only knowing John 3:16) to mature in the full counsel of God's Word. Exhaustive Understanding in Glorification: The future reality that when we reach heaven, all of our remaining questions will be answered in full. 5 Postures for Understanding the Word of God Be Spending Time with Jesus Biblical mysteries are truths hidden until God reveals them to those with "ears to hear". In Matthew 13 (verses 10 and 36), Jesus didn't explain the parables to the crowds—He explained them to the disciples who came to sit with Him privately. While devotional books and sermons are helpful tools, they shouldn't replace personal time directly in the Bible. Relying only on pastors or devotional writers is like "marrying the mailman" instead of building a relationship with the Author who wrote the love letter. Be Scribal A scribe is both a student and a steward of the Word of God who is actively instructed and discipled. Mature believers are called to invest in younger believers—meeting regularly to discuss and pass on what God is teaching them in Scripture (2 Timothy 2:2). Be Systematic Like a householder bringing out treasures both "new and old" (Matthew 13:52), believers must study the unity of both the Old and New Testaments ("What is concealed in the Old is revealed in the New"). Scripture interprets Scripture: Avoid isolating single verses out of context. Use cross-references and systematic study rather than rushing through a one-year reading checklist just to finish. Word Study—Syniemi vs. Ginosko: When Jesus asks, "Have ye understood all these things?" (v. 51), He uses the Greek word syniemi (to bring or collect pieces together to the point of comprehension through pondering) rather than ginosko (immediate/absolute knowledge). True Bible study means saying, "Lord, I got it, but I'm still getting it." Be Surrendered Bible study alone will not help you know God—obedience is required. As Jesus taught in John 14:21, He manifests Himself to those who have His commandments and keep them. Don't read the Bible merely for information; study it for transformation. God will not enlighten you with more truth if He cannot trust you to obey what He has already shown you. Be Sharing The householder pulls treasures out of his storeroom to share them with others. Deep Christian fellowship happens when believers share what has blessed, warned, confirmed, or corrected them in their daily walk with the Word. Scripture References Mentioned Matthew 13:1–52 (Focus text: vv. 51–52; also vv. 10, 36) 2 Peter 3:16 (Peter on the complexity of Paul's writings) 2 Timothy 3:15 (The Scriptures making us wise unto salvation) 1 Corinthians 2:14 (The natural man cannot receive the things of the Spirit) 2 Peter 1:20 (No prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation) John 14:21 (Loving Jesus through obedience and His manifestation to the believer) James 1:22–24 (Being doers of the Word, not hearers only who forget their reflection) Notable Quotes "Clarity does not mean simplicity. Just because something is clear doesn't mean it's simple and easy to understand... It just means it takes a little more work." "If [listening to sermons or reading devotionals] is your devotional life, I'm just the mailman. You need to foster a relationship with the One who wrote the letter." "Many Christians read the Bible for the sake of information, when we need to study the Bible for the sake of transformation." "Understanding Scripture has not one thing to do with your intellect, but it has everything to do with your relationship and fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ." Reflection & Application Challenge Examine Your Routine: Are you spending personal, unhurried time alone with Jesus and an open Bible, or relying solely on secondary devotionals? The Scribal Challenge: If you are a seasoned believer, pray this week: "Lord, bring somebody into my life that I can be a scribe to—someone I can disciple and teach as they pursue truth." If you are a newer believer, pray for a mentor to walk through the Scriptures with you.

Characteristics of the Current Age Proclamation: The era from Christ's first coming to His return is defined by the active, widespread proclamation of the gospel. Perversion: This age is marked by the prevalence of false doctrines, cults, and counterfeit gospels that exist both outside and within the church. Profession: There is a constant dichotomy of profession, where true believers coexist alongside those who make false claims of faith. Divine Patience: God demonstrates long-suffering during this time, delaying judgment to allow for repentance and the salvation of lost souls. The Parable of the Dragnet and Final Judgment The Separation: The parable of the dragnet illustrates the end of the age, where a final separation occurs between the wicked and the just. Discerning Judgment: God will sort individuals based on their spiritual state and the reality of their profession; humans should not attempt this sorting. Determined Outcome: An individual's eternal destiny is determined by their response to the gospel of Christ. Definitive End: The final judgment is absolute, with no opportunity for repentance once the age concludes. Common Grace and the Call to Salvation Common Grace: Blessings such as breath and sustenance are extended to all people, regardless of their spiritual standing. Not Salvation: Experiencing common grace does not equate to salvation, as many who received such blessings in Scripture did not follow Christ. Urgency: The sermon emphasizes the necessity of responding to the gospel today, as the opportunity for salvation is limited. The Reality of Eternal Consequences The Wicked: Those without Christ are described as being cast into a furnace of fire. Their response in hell is characterized by "wailing" (regret) and "gnashing of teeth" (bitterness and arrogance). The Just: True believers are "gathered" unto God, entering a state of eternal joy, dynamic growth, and perfection. Action Items & Next Steps Self-Examination: Evaluate whether your profession of faith is genuine and visibly impacts your life. Evangelism: Urgently, passionately, and prayerfully share the gospel daily with lost friends, family, and co-workers. Respond Today: If you are not saved, respond to the Holy Spirit’s conviction and trust in Jesus Christ immediately to escape the coming judgment. Vigilance: Remain on guard against false doctrines and teachings, both inside and outside the church. Next Week: Join the upcoming session for a sermon on how to understand the Bible, based on Jesus’s instructions to His disciples.

The Nature of the Kingdom and Parables Jesus explains the mysteries of the kingdom through seven parables, emphasizing that these truths are spiritually discerned and require an "ear to hear." The kingdom is defined as a king ruling, regardless of whether subjects submit to his authority, and these parables describe the state of the kingdom between Jesus' first and second coming. Jesus intentionally conceals the meaning of these parables from the multitudes while revealing them to his disciples, who actively seek truth and understanding. The Parable of the Mustard Seed The mustard seed represents the gospel, which is described as small and simple, yet powerful and life-giving. The growth of the mustard seed into a tree is presented as an abnormal occurrence, symbolizing the infiltration of false religion and doctrine into the church age. The "birds of the air" that lodge in the branches of the tree are interpreted as representations of false teachers and cults that bring corruption into the kingdom. Keys to Biblical Interpretation A primary key to understanding Scripture is having a humble, prayerful heart and a desire to pursue truth. The second key to interpretation is allowing the Bible to interpret itself, rather than relying on external sources or personal speculation. Believers are encouraged to act as "scribes" who balance new and old truths from the entirety of the Word of God. Identifying False Doctrine Believers are urged to be "bird watchers" who test teachings against four criteria: the Scripture test, the Savior test, the subject test, and the salvation test. The Scripture test evaluates how a teaching handles the Word of God, specifically whether it adds to or subtracts from the inspired text. The Savior test focuses on the identity of Jesus, specifically his co-equal and co-eternal nature with the Father and the Spirit. The salvation test examines whether salvation is presented as a gift of grace through faith, rather than through works, rituals, or human effort.

Witness the incredible power of faith. God can fundamentally alter the essence of what is, transforming the undesirable into the divine. From tares to wheat, goats to lambs, a testament to spiritual growth. #faith #transformation #spiritualgrowth #divinepower #belief

The Purpose of Parables Jesus used parables to conceal truth from those unwilling to hear and to reveal it to those who sought understanding. The parables in Matthew 13 focus on the mysteries of the kingdom, with Jesus providing explanations exclusively to his disciples when they requested clarification. Understanding scripture requires an intimate relationship with the author, Jesus, and a reliance on prayer and the Holy Spirit rather than solely on commentaries. The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares The parable illustrates the current dispensation between the first and second coming of Jesus, highlighting that not everyone who hears the gospel will be saved4. The field represents the world, where both believers (wheat) and unbelievers or false believers (tares) coexist until the final harvest. The enemy (Satan) sows tares among the wheat, and the church is instructed not to attempt to remove them prematurely, as this could damage the wheat; instead, both are to grow together until the end of the world. Characteristics and Recognition of Tares Tares, specifically identified as "bearded darnel," can be distinguished from wheat by their defiance against the lordship of Christ, often appearing upright rather than bowing. Tares often exhibit a form of depravity that may appear slightly darker or different than wheat, though the core issue is a root problem of being lost, regardless of outward appearance or behavior. Lost individuals often hold erroneous doctrines regarding themselves (failing to see their sin) and the Savior (failing to recognize their need for Him). The Responsibility of the Church The church's responsibility is not to judge or change others, but to live as a holy, separated testimony of the gospel while growing alongside unbelievers in the world. Believers are encouraged to remain spiritually awake in their mission and evangelism, rather than being lulled into sleep, to avoid failing to impact the world. The Final Harvest A future gathering day is described where angels will separate the tares from the wheat; the tares will be cast into a furnace of fire, while the righteous will shine in the kingdom of their Father. The judgment will involve wailing and gnashing of teeth, representing deep regret and anger, in contrast to the transformation of the righteous, who will be made perfect in glory. #bible #sermon #christian #motivation #truth

08/30/2026 The Parables Of Jesus: Mathew 13 - The Parable of the Sower: Understanding the Mysteries of the Kingdom Why did Jesus shift from the direct, confrontational preaching of the Sermon on the Mount to teaching in parables? In this study of Matthew 13, we explore the Parable of the Sower and what it reveals about the human heart's response to the Gospel. We break down: Why Jesus began speaking in parables after the multitudes rejected Him in chapters 11–12 The four soils — wayside, stony, thorny, and good — and what each reveals about hard, superficial, worldly, and receptive hearts Why fruitfulness varies (hundredfold, sixty, thirty) and why even small fruit matters How to pray for the lost and the call to keep sowing the seed, even when most won't receive it "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy" — Psalm 126 Whether you're wrestling with how to share your faith or examining your own heart's response to God's Word, this message is a call to sow faithfully and pray boldly. #Matthew13 #ParableOfTheSower #BibleStudy #GospelOfMatthew #ChristianSermon

Even when walking through the darkest valleys, there's no need for fear. His presence, guidance, and protection bring comfort and strength. #Faith #Comfort #Protection #Inspiration

### The Nature of Sheep and Dependency - Sheep are inherently dependent creatures that require a shepherd to lead them to food and water, as they will not naturally seek these out on their own. - The tendency of sheep to follow one another blindly can lead to tragic outcomes, as illustrated by a 2005 incident in Turkey where fifteen hundred sheep followed others off a cliff. - Sheep are physically vulnerable; if they fall on their backs, they cannot stand up without assistance from a shepherd . ### The Role of the Good Shepherd - The Lord acts as a shepherd who creates an environment of peace by removing fear, friction, and harassment, allowing the sheep to rest . - The shepherd provides guidance to "still waters" and "green pastures," representing the best provision for the flock. - The shepherd restores the soul, comforts the humble, and leads in paths of righteousness for His name's sake. - The shepherd uses a rod and staff for protection, discipline, and pulling the sheep out of danger. ### Navigating Life and Death - Psalm 23 is categorized as a "trust psalm," expressing confidence in God's goodness during times of grief and life's challenges. - Walking through the "valley of the shadow of death" does not require fear because the shepherd is present with the believer. - The "shadow of death" is described as a temporary passage rather than a permanent threat, as the shepherd guides the believer through it . ### Spiritual Choices and False Shepherds - There is a clear distinction between true sheep who follow the Lord and those who act like goats, characterized by selfishness and a lack of concern for others. - False shepherds are described as hirelings who abandon the flock when danger arises or who prioritize their own interests over the well-being of the sheep . - The ultimate spiritual decision involves choosing to trust the Lord as the true shepherd rather than following false influences.

Enduring afflictions and suffering? Trust God. He's your God of all comfort, building you up through suffering, giving you new life. He's with you every step. #Faith #Hope #Suffering #GodsLove #Comfort

# The Purpose of Parables — Matthew 13 **Sermon Date:** August 16, 2026 ## Episode Summary This week we begin a new series moving into Matthew 13, where Jesus shifts from open, easy-to-grasp illustrations (light under a bushel, houses built on rock vs. sand) to a deeper, more deliberate style of teaching: the seven "parables of the mystery of the kingdom." These parables give believers insight into what to expect during the age between Christ's first and second comings — the church age we're living in right now. The heart of this message answers a question every reader of Scripture eventually asks: **why did Jesus teach in parables, and what does it actually take to understand the Bible?** ## Key Takeaways **Two reasons Jesus spoke in parables:** - **To conceal truth** — from a multitude that had already rejected Him and hardened their hearts (built on the preceding rejection narratives in Matthew 11–12) - **To reveal truth** — to His disciples, who had come to Him in humility and were ready to receive it **The principle behind the parables (v. 12):** what you have will be increased, what you neglect will be taken away — like an investor moving resources toward what's bearing fruit. **Four requirements for understanding God's Word:** 1. **It must be given and received** — spiritual truth can't be grasped by intellect alone; it has to be spiritually discerned (1 Corinthians 2:14) 2. **You have to value the Word** — placing real worth on Scripture, not letting it collect dust on a shelf 3. **You have to be intimate with the Lord** — spending unhurried time in prayer and study, letting Scripture interpret Scripture 4. **You have to be a doer of the Word** — obedience unlocks further understanding; God doesn't hand over more truth until you act on what He's already given ## Scripture Referenced - Matthew 13:1–17 (primary text) - Matthew 8–12 (context: miracles and mounting rejection) - Isaiah's prophecy of hardened hearts (quoted in Matthew 13:14–15) - 1 Corinthians 2:14 - James (faith without works) ## Notable Quote "Understanding this book is never an issue with the intellect... it's a heart problem." ## Discussion Questions - Where is your Bible right now, and what does that say about how you value it? - Which of the four requirements (receiving, valuing, intimacy, obedience) is hardest for you personally? - Is there truth God has already given you that you haven't yet acted on? --- *Part of an ongoing verse-by-verse series through the Gospel of Matthew.*

His own family believed he'd lost his mind, thinking his divine mission had gone too far. They sought to intervene, to 'settle him down' amidst the escalating fervor. Let us not oppose the work of Christ! #Messiah #Bible #BiblicalNarrative #SBC

08/09/2026;Opposing Jesus; Matthew 12:46-50 Series Matthew 11-12 First Baptist Church Ocean Springs

08/02/2026;Opposing Jesus; Matthew 12:43-45 Series Matthew 11-12 First Baptist Church Ocean Springs

08/01/2026; Memorial Service Rebecca "Sue" Cody First Baptist Church Ocean Springs Bradford O'Keefe Funeral Home