Read Matthew 13:31--58 To Understand, That Is the Goal After speaking several parables and explaining some, Jesus wants to know something from His apostles, 51 Jesus said to them, Have you understood all these things? They said to Him, Yes, Lord (Mat. 13:51). To know is good, but to understand is better. To know brings the power to refute error and rebuke others, but to understand brings the power to refute your own error and to rebuke yourself. Few things are more repulsive than a Christian who refutes and rebukes only, leaving him with a contrary spirit. Few things are more delightful than a Christian who is open to his own faults, and refutes and rebukes himself before he attempts to do so with others. What kind of Christian are you? Do you only tear down others without also seeking zealously to build them up? Do you lack the zeal to tear down your own faults? On the other hand, do you tear down what is ugly in your spirit first, and then work compassionately to help your brother? Don Ruhl Church of Christ 220 NE Savage Street Grants Pass, Oregon 97526-1310 541-476-3100 http://www.plymouth-church.com/dons_corner2.html http://associate.com/groups/emaildevotionals/