This is Spoken Gospel.

We’re dedicated to seeing
Jesus in all of scripture.

In each episode, we see what’s
happening in a Biblical text

and how it sheds light
on Jesus and his gospel.

Let’s jump in.

Jesus’ kingdom includes people you
don’t expect, and it excludes people you do.

Jesus preaches to the poor.

Jesus grants healing for a
Roman centurion’s servant.

Jesus raises a widow’s
son from the dead.

Jesus even forgives a woman whose sins
are so notorious they aren’t mentioned.

John the Baptist sends two disciples to ask
Jesus if he’s the Messiah they’ve been expecting.

Jesus tells John to see the fruit
of his ministry—the blind see,

the lame walk, lepers are cleansed,
the deaf hear, and the dead are raised.

Those who are poor in body, finance,
and status have heard and experienced
good news through Jesus’ words.

The Pharisees resist this message.

They aren’t comfortable with
the people Jesus attracts.

Instead, the Pharisees refuse to
identify with sinners and the poor.

They refuse to honor Jesus
even with basic courtesies.

And so, they close themselves
off to the forgiveness of their sins,

the healing that Jesus brings, and
the good news of God’s kingdom.

Jesus explains these varied
responses through a parable.

Jesus is like a farmer,
sowing his seed generously.

Jesus lavishes this seed across
sidewalks, rocks, weeds, and fields.

Everyone receives this good
news, but not all accept it.

Many hear and receive the word of Jesus
with joy, but others are too proud to admit
they need Jesus’ good news at all.

Jesus promises that everything
hidden will come to light.

The Pharisees reveal their hidden
pride in their disbelief and corruption.

The poor, the sinner, and the foreigner reveal
their humility by their healing and salvation.

And Jesus reveals his hidden identity by
his authority to condemn the Pharisees,

heal the poor and
forgive the sinful.

This is good news.

Whoever comes to Jesus knowing they have
nothing and knowing they need forgiveness

will be forgiven, healed and called the
greatest in the kingdom of heaven.

May the Holy Spirit open your eyes to see the God
who provides for the poor by sending his Son.

And may you see Jesus as the one
who proclaims and establishes

a kingdom of healing and forgiveness
for all who call on him in need.