In this very important set of parables, Jesus both corrects his disciples understanding of the nature of the kingdom as well as encouraging them with the nature of the kingdom.  

Marveling at Jesus, the people asked, "Can this be the Son of David?"  The answer should be evident.  And yet, the Pharisees respond by attributing His power not to the Spirit of God but to Beelzebul.  No matter what Jesus had done, the Pharisees reject Him because their hearts were hard.  This demonstrates what it means to blaspheme the Spirit of God.  This is the unforgivable sin.  

Jesus confronts the Pharisees on their misunderstanding and misapplication of the Sabbath - they fail to see Christ as who He is - the Lord of all.

We come to a new section leading us to the next great discourse with the parables of the kingdom.  Here in chapter 11, we begin to see the different responses to the Gospel of the Kingdom and to its King.  

Jesus continues instructing His disciples as they prepare to take the gospel of the kingdom forth.  

Jesus commissions the twelve apostles and we have the privilege of learning of the first part of Jesus' ordination sermon for them as he sends them.  

Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost - He is the Great Shepherd of the Sheep who seeks out His own.  

We continue with our study of Matthew with the last set of three miracle stories evidencing who Jesus is and that the Kingdom has come with His coming.  

Jesus makes the lame walk - but that's not the greatest thing - He forgives sin!

There is, indeed, a cost to discipleship.  Yet, it is, indeed, worth it.  Through Jesus' teaching concerning discipleship and these following miracles, we see that while following Jesus doesn't promise temporary ease, it is surely worth it due to the One we follow.