Jesus entered into Jerusalem. The next day he went to the temple and encountered a fig tree on the way. The fig tree had no fruit. He then went to the temple courts and saw that those present had no "fruit." These honest encounters with Jesus revealed the state of God's people in terms of yielding fruit in their lives.

Jesus contrasted small children with a rich man in terms of who is receptive to God's rule & reign in their lives. These encounters with Jesus show that the kingdom of God is an "upside down kingdom" where the first will be last and the last will be first.

Jesus was transfigured on a high mountain and then came down to the valley to encounter a son who was possessed by a spirit. Jesus was fully present in both. These encounters with Jesus on the mountain and in the valley show that God is present in both

Jesus asked what others said about him and Peter shared that he was the Messiah. Jesus then described his death and the way of discipleship. This way requires that people deny themselves and take up their cross and follow him. This encounter with Jesus revealed his identity and the way of the cross to his disciples.

Jesus questioned the practices and traditions of the elders. He shared that is from within out of a person's heart, that evil comes. Jesus wanted the hearts of his people, not just their outward actions. This encounters with the Pharisees and teachers of the law demonstrated what is "clean" according to God and our need for God's cleansing work in our hearts.

Jesus sent the disciples ahead in a boat and they struggled against the wind. They thought he was a ghost when they saw him walking on the lake and they were terrified. Jesus told them "take courage!" and joined them in the boat. This encounters with Jesus revealed Jesus' identity and continued to challenge the disciples.

Jairs' daughter and bleeding woman. Both could have given up hope and determined that nothing could change. These encounters with Jesus interrupted that thinking and led to a different outcome.

Demon-possessed man was beyond help and hope. Jesus helped him by removing the legion of demons and restoring him. This encounter with Jesus changed this man and disrupted the local economy in the process!

"The kingdom of God collides with the kingdoms of this world and our personal kingdom. God sent Jesus to break in and tie up his enemy in order to set his people free. Those who embrace him are included in his circle of trust as his family."

Jesus broke conventions. Jesus called Levi to follow him, he ate with sinners and didn't fast and allowed for actions on the Sabbath. These encounters with Jesus called the Jewish faith, as practiced at that time, into question.