Matthew 13.  This chapter consists mostly of parables and is directed towards the crowds – not the disciples.  The disciples were privy to insider information that served as a key to interpreting the parables (10-17).  In two passages, Matthew records Jesus’ explanation of a parable.  By these we understand that Jesus is talking about present realities in terms of their future significance.  All of the parables here can be explained in reference to the future they predict.

1. The LORD is changing lives with his word, producing a harvest of changed lives for the future kingdom (3-9; 18-23).
2. The LORD allows his harvest to mature amidst weeds (sons of the evil one).  The angels will rescue the harvest and gather the rest to be destroyed by fire in the future (24-30; 36-43).
3. The kingdom harvest has a small beginning, but its future will be great (31-33).
4. The future life promised in God’s kingdom is worth everything one has today (44-46).

Jesus invites the crowds to train for the kingdom of heaven.  He offers them a chance to prepare for this future he promises (51-53).  Sadly, the crowds – like the inhabitants of his hometown Nazareth – are not ready to follow him into the future (53-58).

LORD, we are ready to follow you into the future.  Change us with your word, so that we become who we will be.