by Stan Feldsine (www.tojesusbeallglory.com)

The Messianic Kingdom Lost

What did the Jewish people miss out on when they rejected Jesus and the Kingdom. Here is a look at the Messianic Kingdom.

https://www.tojesusbeallglory.com/2022/02/a-study-of-prophecy-messianic-kingdom.html

The Five "Kingdoms"

Before we discuss the mystery kingdom, we will review the 4 other "kingdoms" the Bible refers to So we have the context for the mystery kingdom.

The Universal or Eternal Kingdom - This kingdom refers to God's rule over all the universe for all time. It includes the angelic realm, and has always existed. This is the kingdom the believer enters upon death (1Co 15:50, 2Ti 4:18).

Psa 93:2 Your throne was established long ago; you are from all eternity.

Psa 103:19 The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.

Scriptural references: 1Ch 29:11-12, Psa 10:16, Psa 29:10, Psa 74:12, Psa 90:1-6, Psa 93:1-5, Psa 103:19-22, Psa 145:1-21, Psa 148:8, Jer 10:10, Lam 5:19, Dan 4:17, Dan 6:27, Act 17:24.
The Spiritual Kingdom - This is God's rule in the heart of a believer. This kingdom is comprised of all who have been born again by the Holy Spirit.

Joh 3:3 Jesus replied, "Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again."

1Co 6:9 Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men (10) nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.

Scriptural references: Mat 6:33, Mat 19:16, Joh 3:3-5, Act 8:12, Act 14:22, Act 19:8, Act 20:25, Act 28:23, 1Co 4:20, 1Co 6:9-10, Gal 5:21, Eph 5:5, Col 1:13-14, Col 4:11, 1Th 2:12, and 2Th 1:5.
The Theocratic Kingdom - This is the rule of God by means of a theocracy over the nation of Israel. This kingdom started when the Law of Moses was established and served as the constitution of the nation of Israel. This kingdom ended with the destruction of Jerusalem by Babylon in 586BC. This kingdom is documented from Exo 19:1 to 2Ch 36:23.

Exo 20:22-23 Then the LORD said to Moses, "Tell the Israelites this: 'You have seen for yourselves that I have spoken to you from heaven: (23) Do not make any gods to be alongside me; do not make for yourselves gods of silver or gods of gold.
The Messianic / Millennial Kingdom - This is the future kingdom during which time Jesus will rule over saved Israel and all the earth from David's throne in Jerusalem for 1000 years. This kingdom is the subject of a great deal of OT prophecy as well as being the kingdom that was declared to be "at hand" by John the Baptist and Jesus (Mat 3:2, Mat 4:17) and rejected by Jewish authorities.

Mat 3:1-2 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea (2) and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near."

Psa 2:4-6 The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them. (5) He rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying, (6) "I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain."

Scriptural references: Psa 2:1-12, Psa 72:1-20, Isa 9:6-7, Isa 11:1-16, Jer 23:5-6, Jer 32:14-17, Eze 34:23, Eze 37:24, Hos 3:4-5, Mic 4:6-8, Mic 5:2, Mal 3:1-4.
The Mystery Kingdom - Following the rejection of the Messianic Kingdom, Jesus's focus switches to the "mystery" kingdom. This is a kingdom that Jesus revealed on the day of Israel's rejection of Himself (Mat 13:11, Mat 13:35). This kingdom covers the period of time between the first and second coming of Jesus. This kingdom will be explored thoroughly in the following exposition.

A Change of Course

Four things change as a result of this generation's rejection of King and Kingdom:

Signs - Jesus will no longer give signs to the nation of Israel to provoke them to decide which side they are going to be on. They have made that decision through their teachers and religious leaders. That decision is rejection.

From this point forward, signs are for the purpose of training and preparing the apostles for their ministry. The only sign given to Israel would be the sign of Jonah.

Miracles - Up to this point, Jesus's miracles did not require faith on the part of the observer or participant. Henceforth, miracles would not happen without faith. Again, Jesus's miracles were to validate His authority as Messiah, and Israel had chosen to reject Him.

Message - The message to this point was to repent and be baptized in preparation for the coming Kingdom. Since the Kingdom was rejected, the message changes to concealing the coming of the Kingdom and King. This policy lasted until the "Great Commission" in Matt 28.

The program would now shift from the coming of the King and the Messianic Kingdom to the mystery program.

Teaching Method - Jesus's teachings changed from being clear and understandable by the people to speaking in Parables. The switch from teaching plainly to speaking parables happened the same day as His rejection.

Mat 7:28-29 When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, (29) because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law.

Mat 13:1-3 a That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. (2) Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. (3) Then he told them many things in parables, ....

Matthew 13:10-17 - The Purpose of the Parables

Mat 13:10-17 The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?" (11) He replied, "Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. (12) Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. (13) This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. (14) In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: "'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. (15) For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' (16) But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. (17) For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.

Matthew 13:34-35 - Prophecy and Parables

Mat 13:34-35 Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. (35) So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: "I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world."

Two Movements

Matthew's gospel is presented like an orchestra performing a classical piece in two movements. Each movement is sweeping in it's presentation.

The first movement details the presentation of the Messiah Jesus and His Messianic Kingdom to Israel and the response of that nation to His arrival. Presented were His genealogy, judicial and moral evidence, all authenticated by miracles showing that He is the rightful heir and King worthy of David's throne in Jerusalem. This movement climaxes with the opposition and outright rejection of the King by the nation of Israel, resulting in the postponement of the Kingdom to a future date.

The second movement which we will now turn to is the presentation and explanation of the mystery program for a new age. This mystery program is revealed and detailed as a result of the rejection of King and Kingdom. This mystery program will be revealed through parables that the unbelieving Jews will be unable to comprehend.

This mystery kingdom will be a spiritual rather than a physical kingdom, and will last from the first coming of Christ to the second coming, the time during which the King is not present. While the physical Messianic Kingdom was known and prophesied throughout the Old Testament, the spiritual mystery kingdom was a secret not revealed to the OT saints.

The Mystery Program Was Hidden

The mystery program introduced at the rejection of Jesus is called a "mystery" because it is a program known by God and was hidden from people through the ages but is now being revealed. Jesus is now going to switch from speaking about the offer of the coming Messianic Kingdom and it's character and standards to speaking about this "mystery" program and he will do so using parables.

Mat 13:35 So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: "I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world."

Psa 78:2 I will open my mouth and tell stories. I will speak about things that were hidden. They happened a long time ago.

This is a program that prophets and righteous people in the past had long to be able to see, but it was hidden from them.

Mat 13:17 For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.

1Pe 1:10-12 Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, (11) trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow. (12) It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.

This mystery program would be revealed to those who had ears to hear. This meant that not everyone would be able to understand what He is talking about. Those without ears to hear are those Jews who rejected Jesus as King, and those with ears to hear are those who accepted Jesus as King.

Mat 13:9 Whoever has ears, let them hear."

Mat 13:10-11 The disciples came to him and asked, "Why do you speak to the people in parables?" (11) He replied, "Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them.

Mat 7:6 "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.

The inability of those without ears to hear to understand the mystery program was a fulfillment of prophecy.

Mat 13:14-16 In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: "'You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. (15) For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' (16) But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.

Isa 6:9-10 He said, "Go and tell this people: "'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' (10) Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed."

The Jews who did not believe had darkened eyes and could not understand Jesus's parables. This blindness carried forward to Paul's day and still affects the unbelieving Jews of today.

Mat 13:12-13 Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. (13) This is why I speak to them in parables: "Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.

Rom 11:7-10 What then? What the people of Israel sought so earnestly they did not obtain. The elect among them did, but the others were hardened, (8) as it is written: "God gave them a spirit of stupor, eyes that could not see and ears that could not hear, to this very day." (9) And David says: "May their table become a snare and a trap, a stumbling block and a retribution for them. (10) May their eyes be darkened so they cannot see, and their backs be bent forever."

Rom 11:8-10 is quoting from the following passages:

Psa 69:22-23 Let their feast be a trap and a snare. Let my enemies get what's coming to them. (23) Let their eyes grow weak so they can't see. Let their backs be bent forever.

Deu 29:4 But to this very day the LORD hasn't given you a mind that understands. He hasn't given you eyes that see. He hasn't given you ears that hear.

Isa 29:10 The LORD has made you fall into a deep sleep. He has closed the eyes of your prophets. He has covered the heads of your seers so they can't see.

It is important to note, however, that this blindness will not last forever.

Rom 11:25-27 I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in, (26) and in this way all Israel will be saved. As it is written: "The deliverer will come from Zion; he will turn godlessness away from Jacob. (27) And this is my covenant with them when I take away their sins."

Zec 12:10 "And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.

Paul's Revelation of the Mystery Program

The mystery program would be revealed in two stages. First, Jesus would teach about it to His disciples using parables. Second, Paul would receive revelation about it and teach it to the apostles and prophets of his time some 1 year after Jesus's crucifixion and 14 years after his conversion.

Gal 1:11-12 I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel I preached is not of human origin. (12) I did not receive it from any man, nor was I taught it; rather, I received it by revelation from Jesus Christ.

Gal 1:17-18 I did not go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went into Arabia. Later I returned to Damascus. (18) Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Cephas and stayed with him fifteen days.

Gal 2:1-2 Then after fourteen years, I went up again to Jerusalem, this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. (2) I went in response to a revelation and, meeting privately with those esteemed as leaders, I presented to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. I wanted to be sure I was not running and had not been running my race in vain.

Eph 3:2-3 Surely you have heard about the administration of God's grace that was given to me for you, (3) that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly.

Rom 16:25-27 Now to him who is able to establish you in accordance with my gospel, the message I proclaim about Jesus Christ, in keeping with the revelation of the mystery hidden for long ages past, (26) but now revealed and made known through the prophetic writings by the command of the eternal God, so that all the Gentiles might come to the obedience that comes from faith-- (27) to the only wise God be glory forever through Jesus Christ! Amen.

The Mystery of Salvation Coming To the Gentiles

A part of the mystery program consisted of doing away with the Law of Moses. The Law of Moses was a "dividing wall of hostility" between Jews and Gentiles. In order for spiritual blessings and salvation to come to Gentiles, they had to become proselytes to Judaism. With the Law of Moses set aside, salvation was opened to the Gentiles and Jew and Gentile became "one new humanity", the Church.

Gal 3:19 Why, then, was the law given at all? It was added because of transgressions until the Seed to whom the promise referred had come. The law was given through angels and entrusted to a mediator.

Eph 2:14-15 For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, (15) by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace,

With the Law of Moses set aside, the path was opened for Gentiles to be saved in the same manner as the Jew, by grace through faith without the Law, and not by becoming a proselyte to Judaism. Paul taught this, first to the Jews, then to the Gentiles.

Eph 3:1-6 For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles-- (2) Surely you have heard about the administration of God's grace that was given to me for you, (3) that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. (4) In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, (5) which was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets. (6) This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.

Rom 10:12-13 For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile--the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, (13) for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Eph 3:8-9 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, (09) and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.

Col 1:25-27 I have become its servant by the commission God gave me to present to you the word of God in its fullness-- (26) the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord's people. (27) To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

In the past, the Messianic Kingdom was offered to the Jews, and Gentiles were excluded. Gentiles were excluded by Jewish Law, given by God. The Law only allowed Gentiles to be saved by becoming proselytes, or in other words, virtual Jews. But all this was about to change.

Mat 10:5-7 These twelve Jesus sent out with the following instructions: "Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. (6) Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. (7) As you go, proclaim this message: 'The kingdom of heaven has come near.'

Eph 2:17-22 He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. (18) For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (19) Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household, (20) built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. (21) In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. (22) And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

It was Israel's rejection of the King and Kingdom that brought about salvation to the Gentiles.

Rom 11:11-15 Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious. (12) But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring! (13) I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I take pride in my ministry (14) in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them. (15) For if their rejection brought reconciliation to the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?

The Jews Rejection of the Messianic Kingdom Blesses the Gentiles

When Israel rejected the Messianic Kingdom and their King, it resulted in blessing to the Gentiles. This was fulfillment of a prophecy given in the Abrahamic Covenant that Abraham would be a blessing to the nations.

Gen 12:2 "I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.

Gal 3:8 Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: "All nations will be blessed through you."

The practical fulfillment was seen in Paul and the disciples turning from Israel to the Gentiles.

Act 13:46-48 Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: "We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles.

Eph 2:11-13 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called "uncircumcised" by those who call themselves "the circumcision" (which is done in the body by human hands)-- (12) remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. (13) But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

Act 13:46-48 Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: "We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. (47) For this is what the Lord has commanded us: "'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'" (48) When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.

Mystery Program Includes Believers and Unbelievers

The mystery program contains not only the Church, but also includes unbelievers referred to as "weeds" or "tares". Both will exist side by side in this mystery program until the end of the age and the start of the rescheduled Messianic Kingdom.

Mat 13:24-30 Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. (25) But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. (26) When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. (27) "The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?' (28) "'An enemy did this,' he replied. "The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?' (29) "'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. (30) Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.'"

Conclusion

The speaking of truth through parables can be understood to be a judgment on unbelieving Israel. Since they did not accept the truth when it was understood, they would now be given truth they cannot understand. However, for the disciples and those who believed, the parables would indeed give further enlightenment.

Mat 13:16 But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.

Mat 13:34-35 Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. (35) So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: "I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world."

And this is how being "in Christ" came to the Gentiles. The Jewish rejection of their King and Kingdom opened the way for the Gentiles to become co-heirs with Israel of spiritual blessings and salvation.

Rom 11:11-15 Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious.

Matthew 13:1-09 - The Parable of the Sower

Mat 13:1-9 That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. (2) Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. (3) Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. (4) As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. (5) Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. (6) But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. (7) Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. (8) Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop--a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. (9) Whoever has ears, let them hear."

Matthew 13:18-23 - The Parable of the Sower Explained

Mat 13:18-23 "Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: (19) When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. (20) The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. (21) But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. (22) The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. (23) But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown."

Gentiles are Included- Looking to the past we see that Israel was a theocracy, and accordingly, all of the Jewish people were instructed in the Law and Prophets and the coming of the King and Kingdom from birth. The Jewish people had a relationship with God.

Taking a sneak peek ahead in time, we see Paul revealing that the Gentiles "were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world".

Eph 2:11-12 Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called "uncircumcised" by those who call themselves "the circumcision" (which is done in the body by human hands)-- (12) remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.

The changes we will see in the mystery program were brought about by the rejection of the King and Kingdom by the nation of Israel. The Gentiles were blessed as a result of Israel's rejection of their King.

Rom 11:12 But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring!

Instruction for Jew and Gentile - Both Jews and Gentiles would need to be instructed in the mystery program. The Gentiles would be coming into a relationship with God that they never had before, and the Jewish people would be coming into the knowledge that what was once theirs alone (relationship with God) would now be shared with the Gentiles. This caused consternation among the religious Jews because they considered the Gentiles to be unclean.

Rom 3:22 This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile,

Eph 2:13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

Rom 11:17 If some of the branches have been broken off, and you, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root,

Additionally, both Jew and Gentile would be instructed in a major change in which the Holy Spirit would now not just exist outside of the people and come upon them from time to time for a specific purpose, but the Holy Spirit would now come to live inside of them.

Col 1:27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

God's Word to be Sown - Turning back to the present time of Jesus, speaking of the very near future, Matthew shows that the mystery program would be characterized by the sowing of the seed (God's Word) to the Gentiles (Eph 2:13). The Jewish people who believed would be taught as well that the Gentiles were now sharers in the riches, and that they would need to accept this (Rom 11:17), for God was no respecter of persons regarding salvation. This was a major change in God's program and it came about due to Israel's rejection of the King and Kingdom (Rom 11:12).

Act 10:34-35 Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism (35) but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.

God's Word to be Resisted and Have Varied Responses - Jesus begins His teaching of the mystery program with parables on the same day that the religious leaders of Israel rejected Him with the unforgivable sin. Later on Paul will explain the mystery far more clearly.

The parable of the sower introduces several motifs, or reoccurring themes and ideas that are used throughout the parables. These motifs include ideas like seed (the Word of God), sowing seed (preaching and teaching), birds, thorns and rocky places (forces attempting to keep us from accepting or understanding the Word), etc. If you understand the motifs being used here in this parable, you will also understand their use in other parables.

Seed - The "seed" is the Word of God. When we take in the Word of God, it has the potential to be extremely fruitful, in our life and the life of those we are around.

Mat 13:3 Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed.

Luk 8:11 "This is the meaning of the parable: The seed is the word of God.

Farmer - The Farmer is the one who sows seed, and represents anyone who shares the gospel.

Mat 13:3 Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed.

Soil - Also referred to as the "field", soil represents the receptivity of the human heart to hear, accept and understand that which is sown in it. Some soil is good and some bad, and accordingly some people have receptive hearts and others have closed hearts.

Soil - Birds By the Wayside - This is the response of unbelief. The Word of God is shared with those who chose not to believe what is being said about the gospel. What is sown in the heart is never germinated, or believed, it just gets carried away.

Unbelieving scribes and Pharisees would fall into this category. They heard the message of the King and Kingdom but never believed it.

Mat 13:4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up.

Mat 13:19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path.

Soil - Rocky Places - This represents seed that is sown in a place where there is not much soil. Seeds sown in rocky places will germinate and put forth a plant, but because there is little soil the plant quickly dies.

Mat 13:5-6 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. (6) But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root.

Mat 13:20-21 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. (21) But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.

This type of soil represents those who hear the word, and believe, but they are never rooted in the Word and grow accordingly. Their spiritual life is never stabilized, and they tend to be driven by emotion and experience.

1Co 3:1-3 Brothers and sisters, I could not address you as people who live by the Spirit but as people who are still worldly--mere infants in Christ. (2) I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. (3) You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?

Heb 5:11-14 We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. (12) In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God's word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! (13) Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. (14) But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil.

Eph 4:11-14 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, (12) to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up (13) until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. (14) Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.

Soil - Thorny Ground - Like the rocky ground, these also believe, but they never seem to be able to overcome the cares of the world which choke. These may have a solid understanding of God's Word, but are unable to apply their knowledge to their lives. As a result they have difficulty living consistent spiritual lives because of their being overcome with the cares of the world. These also do not produce much fruit and they also suffer from spiritual immaturity.

Luk 8:14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.

Mat 13:7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants.

Mat 13:22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.

Soil - Good Soil - The good soil represents people who believe and are rooted in God's Word and apply it. They also are productive in spiritual life and are growing. The production of fruit will vary, but good fruit at some level is present in their lives.

Mat 13:8 Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop--a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.

Mat 13:23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown."

The Disciples Question Jesus - After hearing the Parable of the Sower, the disciples asked Jesus about the parables. Mark records Jesus stating to His disciples that in order to understand any of the parables, they must understand the parable of the sower.

Mar 4:13 Then Jesus said to them, "Don't you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable?

Mark 4:26-29 - The Parable of the Seed Growing

Mar 4:26-29 He also said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. (27) Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. (28) All by itself the soil produces grain--first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. (29) As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come."

This is the second parable Jesus gave to His disciples. Matthew did not record this one but it is found in Mark's record.

There are a couple points Jesus is making in this parable. The first is that the seed will spring to life all on it's own, with it's own inner energy. Regeneration is inherent in the seed itself.

Secondly, the fact that the seed springs to life on it's own means it does not rely on the sower for anything but the dispersion of the seed itself.

These two points bring to light the fact that the "seed", which we learned in the previous parable is the Word of God, is sufficient in itself to bring salvation to those that hear. There is nothing the sower can add to this work. We sow the Word, the Word gives life.

Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.

This parable answers the question about the responsibility of the sower. Does the harvest at the end of the age depend upon the skill, determination and wisdom of the sower? According to this parable, the answer is no. Only the work of spreading the "seed" (Word) is entrusted to humans, but the life within the "seed" causes it to sprout and grow all by itself. The sower is not responsible for the life and growth of the person to whom the seed is planted.

Mar 4:27-28 Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. (28) All by itself the soil produces grain--first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head.

Matthew 13:24-30 - The Parable of the Wheat and Tares

Mat 13:24-30 Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. (25) But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. (26) When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. (27) "The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?' (28) "'An enemy did this,' he replied. "The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?' (29) "'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. (30) Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.'"

Matthew 13:36-43 - The Parable of the Wheat and Tares Explained

Mat 13:36-43 Then he left the crowd and went into the house. His disciples came to him and said, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field." (37) He answered, "The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. (38) The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the people of the kingdom. The weeds are the people of the evil one, (39) and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. (40) "As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. (41) The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. (42) They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (43) Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear.

This parable makes three points that describe what life is like during the mystery program.

The first is that the sowing of false seeds will be taking place during the timeframe of the mystery program. If the "seed" is the Word of God, then the false "seed" is false teachings of all sorts. Only God's Word is true, and contradictions with God's Word are false whether their source is theological or secular.

The second point is that during this age, God will allow both true and false teaching to develop alongside each other. We are not to weed out the false teachings and teachers during this time, we are to allow them to grow together.

The character of the time period of the mystery program is not just the righteousness of the church, but includes the the presence of evil and false teaching.

The third point is that the judgment at the end of this age will separate the two. The Judgment in view here is the Sheep and Goat judgment described in Mat 25:31-46. The Sheep and Goat judgment and the Wheat and Tares Judgment are the same judgment, which takes place at the second coming of Jesus at the conclusion of the Tribulation and before the Messianic Kingdom is established.

Mat 25:31-34, Mat 25:41 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. (32) All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. (33) He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. (34) "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. (41) "Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.

This parable raises the point that as the "good sower" is the "Son of Man", then the evil sower is "Satan". Accordingly, since false teaching is being sown in this age by Satan, we should always be on the lookout for false teachings in the world today.

The Parable of the Net also shines a light on this topic.

Matthew 13:47-50 - The Parable of the Net

Mat 13:47-50 "Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. (48) When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away. (49) This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous (50) and throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

The parable of the Net conveys the same truth as that the parable of the Wheat and Tares and the prophecy of the Sheep and Goat judgment. The mystery program will end with a judgment that determines who remains to enter the Messianic Kingdom and who is removed and sent to Sheol to await the final Great White Throne judgment.

Matthew - Additional Context for Wheat and Tares Parable

Matthew 7:21-23

Another passage that illustrates this time of judgment is Mat 7:21-23.

Mat 7:21-23 "Not everyone who calls me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only those who do what my Father in heaven wants them to do. (22) When the Judgment Day comes, many will say to me, 'Lord, Lord! In your name we spoke God's message, by your name we drove out many demons and performed many miracles!' (23) Then I will say to them, 'I never knew you. Get away from me, you wicked people!'

Matthew 24:36-42

Another passage is in Matt 24 which describes what some think in the Rapture, but the context is clearly the Sheep and Goat judgment. The reference is to the judgment in Noah's day where the wicked were removed and the righteous remained.

Mat 24:36-42 "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. (37) As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. (38) For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; (39) and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and took them all away. That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. (40) Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left. (41) Two women will be grinding with a hand mill; one will be taken and the other left. (42) "Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.

Matthew 13:31-32 - The Mustard Seed

Mat 13:31-32 He told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. (32) Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches."

There are three points made in this parable. The first is though it will start out small, with only a few believers, it will grow unceasingly until it assume tremendous outer size.

The second point is that it will eventually become a monstrosity. Remember that the mystery kingdom consists of both wheat and tares, or believers and unbelievers growing together until the judgment.

The third point is that the tree will become a resting place for birds.

If we use the previous parables to define the birds, then the birds are a negative, for it is the birds that take the seed away from those that might believe. This illustrates the nature of the mystery kingdom consisting of both believers and unbelievers together. This shows that the true church and the false church are both a part of the growth of the mystery kingdom.

Mat 13:3-4 Then he told them many things in parables, saying: "A farmer went out to sow his seed. (4) As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up.

Another point raised by this parable is that the mystery kingdom will grow over time starting out very small, while the Millennial Kingdom will be very large at the start. When Jesus taught this parable, his followers were few in number, and they have grown greatly in number for the last 2000 years. At the time of the Sheep and Goat judgment there are huge numbers of believers that will enter into the Messianic Kingdom.

Matthew 13:33 - The Leaven

Mat 13:33 He told them still another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough."

"Leaven" is translated "yeast" in some translations.

This parable teaches that the God's purpose for the mystery kingdom would be carried out like leaven in bread dough. His purpose would work irreversibly, persistently and pervasively throughout this age. When yeast in introduced to flour it works it's way throughout until the bread is ready for the oven.

The "woman" represents a religious or spiritual entity.

Leaven is a symbol of "sin", in particular the sin of false teaching and the introduction of false teaching into the mystery kingdom (woman).

The "three measures of meal" represents Christianity being splintered into three legs, Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy and Protestantism which all have some measure of false teaching in them. So the parable of the leaven teaches that the mystery kingdom will be marked by inward doctrinal corruption in all three divisions.

Leaven in scripture is always considered an evil influence. The metaphor of leaven's affect on bread was taught with relation to sin from the early days of Israel, even before the Law of Moses. It was a part of two of Israel's Feasts.

Passover

God's disdain for "sin" is shown in the Feast of Passover.

Exo 12:14-15 "This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the LORD--a lasting ordinance. (15) For seven days you are to eat bread made without yeast. On the first day remove the yeast from your houses, for whoever eats anything with yeast in it from the first day through the seventh must be cut off from Israel.

Feast of Unleavened Bread

God's disdain for "sin" is shown in the Feast of Unleavened Bread.

Exo 13:6-7 For seven days eat bread made without yeast and on the seventh day hold a festival to the LORD. (7) Eat unleavened bread during those seven days; nothing with yeast in it is to be seen among you, nor shall any yeast be seen anywhere within your borders.

The Teaching of the Pharisees

Jesus and Paul taught about sin using the metaphor of leavened bread.

Mat 16:6 "Be careful," Jesus said to them. "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees."

Mat 16:11-12 How is it you don't understand that I was not talking to you about bread? But be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees." (12) Then they understood that he was not telling them to guard against the yeast used in bread, but against the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

Sin in Our Life

1Co 5:7 Get rid of the old yeast, so that you may be a new unleavened batch--as you really are. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.

Matthew 13:44 - The Parable of the Hidden Treasure

Mat 13:44 "The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.

Treasure is a symbol of Israel, this speaks of the believing Remnant of the Jewish people. Jesus gave everything to gain this treasure.

Exo 19:5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession.

Deu 14:2 for you are a people holy to the LORD your God. Out of all the peoples on the face of the earth, the LORD has chosen you to be his treasured possession.

Psa 135:4 For the LORD has chosen Jacob to be his own, Israel to be his treasured possession.

Thus this speaks of Israel.

Rom 11:5 So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.

Gal 6:16 Peace and mercy to all who follow this rule--to the Israel of God.

Jesus is the one who purchased the treasure:

1Pe 1:18-19 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your ancestors, (19) but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.

Matthew 13:45-46 - The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value

Mat 13:45-46 "Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. (46) When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.

The "pearl" is likely the flip side of the coin so to speak in contrast with the "treasure". While God refers to Israel as His treasure, the Gentiles are likely His "pearl" of great price.

In scripture, the "sea" symbolizes the Gentile world, and pearls come from the sea. Additionally, the pearl comes from an Oyster, and Oysters are unclean, and would not be used symbolically of Israel.

Dan 7:2-3 Daniel said: "In my vision at night I looked, and there before me were the four winds of heaven churning up the great sea. (3) Four great beasts, each different from the others, came up out of the sea.

Rev 17:1 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls came and said to me, "Come, I will show you the punishment of the great prostitute, who sits by many waters.

Rev 17:15 Then the angel said to me, "The waters you saw, where the prostitute sits, are peoples, multitudes, nations and languages.

Like the treasure, Jesus paid the ultimate price to gain His pearl, and the Gentiles will be a part of the plan of salvation in the mystery kingdom. As the pearl develops slowly, the Gentiles will come into the kingdom slowly over the centuries. At some point, the full number of Gentiles will come in, and the Messianic Kingdom will be established shortly afterwards.

Act 15:14-18 Simon has described to us how God first intervened to choose a people for his name from the Gentiles. (15) The words of the prophets are in agreement with this, as it is written: (16) "'After this I will return and rebuild David's fallen tent. Its ruins I will rebuild, and I will restore it, (17) that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord, even all the Gentiles who bear my name, says the Lord, who does these things'-- (18) things known from long ago.

Rom 11:25 I do not want you to be ignorant of this mystery, brothers and sisters, so that you may not be conceited: Israel has experienced a hardening in part until the full number of the Gentiles has come in,

Matthew 13:51-52 - New and Old Treasures

Mat 13:51-52 "Have you understood all these things?" Jesus asked. "Yes," they replied. (52) He said to them, "Therefore every teacher of the law who has become a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like the owner of a house who brings out of his storeroom new treasures as well as old."

What Jesus is revealing here is the truth that the mystery kingdom will consist of both old precepts from the overall plan of God, and some aspects will be new, emphasizing the mystery character of God's overall plan.

The mystery is that the Gentiles will now be chosen to be a people of God.

Gentiles can now call on the name of the Lord to be saved, without going through the rituals to become a proselyte.

Act 2:21 And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'

Rom 10:13 for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

2Ti 1:9-10 He has saved us and called us to a holy life--not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, (10) but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

Matthew - The Progression of the Parables

The parables provide a view into the progression of the mystery kingdom from beginning to end:

Sower - Throughout the mystery kingdom age, the gospel will be sown to the whole world.

Seed Growing by Itself - The seed, Word of God, will not require any influence on the part of the sower. It has power within itself to to spring to life in believers.

Tares - The sowing of the truth will be imitated by the false prophets and teachers as they sow a counter narrative to the gospel. They will exist alongside the good prophets and teachers. The hearer will be required to confirm the truth of the Word through study and discernment.

The next two parables illustrate the results of the Tares.

Mustard Seed - The mystery kingdom will grow to huge outer proportions. The teachings of false religions and doctrines of demons will grow in the "visible" church along side the true "invisible" church. The combination of the true and the false growing intermixed will make it appear that the church has grown to a vast size.

Leaven - The mystery kingdom will be marked by inward corruption of doctrine.

The next parables illustrate the results of the Wheat, or the sower and seed growing on it's own.

Hidden Treasure - God will gain a Remnant of Jews who hear the Word about Jesus and the gospel and believe.

Pearl of Great Price - God will gain a people for His name from among the Gentiles who hear the Word about Jesus and the gospel and believe.

The Net - There will be a separation of the righteous from the unrighteous at the end of the age in a judgment called the Sheep and Goat judgment. The righteous are the believers who enter the Kingdom, and the unrighteous will go to Sheol.

Householder - The Mystery Kingdom is similar to the Kingdom programs of the past, but also has some aspects that are new. The other kingdoms are: The "Universal or Eternal Kingdom", the "Spiritual Kingdom", the Theocratic Kingdom", and the Messianic Kingdom".

Matthew 13:53-58 - Jesus Rejected at Nazareth

Mat 13:53-58 When Jesus had finished these parables, he moved on from there. (54) Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. "Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?" they asked. (55) "Isn't this the carpenter's son? Isn't his mother's name Mary, and aren't his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? (56) Aren't all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all these things?" (57) And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor except in his own town and in his own home." (58) And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith.

Mark includes "He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them." (Mar 6:5). At this point in Jesus's ministry, healings were performed out of compassion for the sick. No longer is Jesus attempting to validate His deity and right to David's throne. The Messianic Kingdom has been postponed.

The people of Nazareth knew Jesus, they questioned His right to teach them, He was after all just the son of Joseph and Mary and had brothers and sisters. He had never been to a rabbinic school, and the Nazareth school system didn't teach what Jesus knew. The marveled at His wisdom and understanding of the Hebrew scriptures, but also were offended by Him (Mat 13:57), and gave Him no honor.

Jesus also was astonished, but at the unbelief of His neighbors. It would appear that Jesus was only astonished by two things, the first was the unbelief of His own people, the Jewish race, and secondly he was astonished at the belief of the Gentiles.

Due to the unbelief of the Jewish people, Jesus was unable to perform many miracles.

This passage also reveals details about the family of Jesus. Jesus is reported to have 4 half brothers, James (the author of the book of James), Joseph, Simon and Jude (the author of the Book of Jude). Jesus also had at least two half sisters who are unnamed. Mary had at least 7 children including Jesus.

To Jesus Be All Glory

Friday, July 7, 2023

A Study of Matthew - Chapter 13