The rich young ruler wanted to please God by following religious rules. Jesus shocked him by telling him to give away his wealth and follow him. He was not willing but for those who do - there will be reward in heaven.

Jesus uses two extremes in the Jewish religious culture to teach that God does not show mercy according to the works of the self-righteous but to the repentant heart of the sinner.

In this parable,The manager is shrewd because he looks to the future. He is also corrupt and loses his job. Jesus teaches about how to use finance and avoid materialism.

Jesus tells this parable in response to a trick question. He challenges the Jewish concept of loving fellow Jews as neighbours and encourages mercy for anyone who has need.

Jesus warned against the teaching of the Pharisees, Sadducees and Herodians. They deny his Messiahship and were a bad influence permeating the nation - just like yeast.

Jairus and a woman are from different social standings but both need Jesus and overcome fear, emotion and cynicism. They show faith and humility and are rewarded by healings.

Controversy is building about Jesus keeping the Law of Moses or not. Both he and his disciples are accused of working on the Sabbath. Mercy rather than rule-keeping is Jesus' way.