Matthew 13:49, 50

As a writer, mother, and growth-minded individual, I am always looking for opportunities to learn. In the Bible, Jesus taught his followers using parables—simple stories to illustrate spiritual lessons. He is still doing this for me today. When I recently watched Star Wars with my family, the Holy Spirit highlighted it's parallels with His Word. Join me as we unpack the Jedi ways that point us to Jesus.

The Essential 100® Bible Challenge is a simple tool to read through the Big Story of God's Word. The reading plan is based on 50 Old Testament and 50 New Testament passages. Continue with the twelfth part "The Teachings of Jesus." ®Produced by American Bible Society in partnership with Scripture Union, Inc.

In 100 carefully selected passages from the Bible, you will discover who Jesus is and why he is so significant – even life-transforming. Through both Old and New Testament readings, you will discover why God sent Jesus, what Jesus taught, how he treated people, why he did miracles, the meaning of his death, the significance of his resurrection, and what the Bible says about his second coming.

Matthew writes to God’s people and walks them on a journey that will take them from where they are to be Disciple Makers. This is 15 of 27 devotional plans walking us through the book of Matthew. Jesus finishes the section on the parables—lots of key Kingdom truths. Then we see Jesus' response to being misunderstood and to having spiritual strength in such times.