by false interpretations of the Law. When the ruler of the synagogue
criticized Jesus, by addressing those whom the woman represented, on the
ground that such healing broke the law of Sabbath rest, his hypocrisy and
that of his sympathizers was unmasked by the reply that where
self-interest prompted, they interpreted the Law so liberally as to allow
them on the Sabbath to loose their cattle which had been bound but a few
hours, while they refused to allow Jesus to relieve a daughter of Abraham
whom Satan had bound for years. They were pretending to be zealous for the
Law while denying its essential principle of love. Their real breach of
the Law was shown both by their lack of sympathy for the woman and their
hatred of Christ. Their interpretation of the Law was shown to be absurd,
for it prevented an act of mercy which, on the Sabbath, was not only
allowable but necessary. Jesus never intimated that he would abolish the
Sabbath; he only designed to restore to it the true spirit of worship and
love and liberty and joy.

In view of this gracious work of power the multitude rejoiced; and Jesus
spoke the parables of the Mustard Seed and the Leaven, the former to
indicate that his power yet was to extend over all the earth and the
latter that it was to transform all human life. Some readers interpret the
former parable as indicating the unsubstantial forms that Christianity at
times assumes, and the latter the false doctrine which at times permeates
the Church. Whichever interpretation one accepts, it is hardly wise to
base upon it any theories as to the order of events related to the coming
and Kingdom of Christ. All will agree that small beginnings and invisible
forces are not to be despised or distrusted by the followers of the Christ
who some day will deliver the whole suffering creation "from the bondage
of corruption into the liberty of the glory of the children of God."

B. The Second Stages. Chs. 13:22 to 17:10

1. The Narrow Door. Ch. 13:22-30

22 And he went on his way through cities and villages, teaching,
and journeying on unto Jerusalem. 23 And one said unto him, Lord,
are they few that are saved? And he said unto them, 24 Strive to
enter in by the narrow door: for many, I say unto you, shall seek
to enter in, and shall not be able. 25 When once the master of the
house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to
stand without, and to knock at the door, sayin