17
His answer made his enemies ashamed of themselves, while the people rejoiced over all the wonderful things that he did.
18
Jesus asked, "What is the Kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it with?
19
It is like this. A man takes a mustard seed and plants it in his field. The plant grows and becomes a tree, and the birds make their nests in its branches."
20
Again Jesus asked, "What shall I compare the Kingdom of God with?
21
It is like this. A woman takes some yeast and mixes it with a bushel of flour until the whole batch of dough rises."
22
Jesus went through towns and villages, teaching the people and making his way toward Jerusalem.
23
Someone asked him, "Sir, will just a few people be saved?" Jesus answered them,
24
"Do your best to go in through the narrow door; because many people will surely try to go in but will not be able.
25
The master of the house will get up and close the door; then when you stand outside and begin to knock on the door and say, "Open the door for us, sir!' he will answer you, "I don't know where you come from!'
26
Then you will answer, "We ate and drank with you; you taught in our town!'
27
But he will say again, "I don't know where you come from. Get away from me, all you wicked people!'
1