Mark 4:1-34 - An Insider's Look into the Kingdom of God

Jesus continues to show who is on the "inside" and who is on the "outside" by teaching in parables. In His teachings, He shows a) what the Kingdom of God is like, and b) how citizens of His Kingdom are to prepare themselves for Kingdom work. Overall, Jesus shows that God is in complete sovereign control over His Kingdom. And His people, the citizens of His Kingdom, are to be faithful participants in Kingdom work.

• The Parable of the Sower (v1-20)
  • The Kingdom of God is to be proclaimed to all
  • Those in the Kingdom are to be faithful to the mission
• The Parable of the Lamp (v21-25)
  • The Kingdom of God is not to be hidden
  • Those in the Kingdom are to be faithful stewards
• The Parable of the Seed (v26-29)
  • The Kingdom of God grows mysteriously
  • Those in the Kingdom are to trust in God's sovereignty
• The Parable of the Mustard Seed (v30-34)
  • The Kingdom of God will grow greatly
  • Those in the Kingdom are to rest in His promises