http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=79859&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Why we are called to be A Shepherd?
Do you know where you are going? Do you have not just the vision, but the true Truth of His call and Way? We have to know where the well is before leading others to it! Christ and His precepts are the well, and we follow the path by example, nurture and service with faith, fruit, character and maturity so others can partake of His wonders. We have to know, and to do this, we have to grow. If we are not growing in the faith, we are useless and unable to lead or equip others. We will lord over by pride, teach falsely or sloppily and lead others astray; we will dishonor our Lord.
http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=78397&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Jesus conceals truth for us, not 'from' us!
There are two main conceptions in what and why Jesus uses parables in edifying and instructing us. One, He uses simple everyday illustrations, allegories, stories, and word pictures that He pointed to, showcasing an illustration that people could understand and relate to. Second, in the illustration dwells a layered meaning-like an onion, if you will--that has a depth to it. His main reason? People, for the most part, are 'concrete' thinkers. We tend to look to the simplest, easiest meaning to mentally digest solution and rarely seek a deeper meaning or application. However, to grow in faith, we need to grow beyond ourselves, our perception, and our assumptions in order to grasp the true Truths Christ has for us. Thus, for us to grow in faith...
http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=68029&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Love rejoices with the truth!
http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=63900&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Jesus is True Truth!
http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=61705&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Followers Abandoned Jesus!
http://www.intothyword.org/apps/articles/default.asp?blogid=0&view=post&articleid=Impressions-from-Gods-Word-40&link=1&fldKeywords=&fldAuthor=&fldTopic=0
Session 40: Proverbs