The seven hindrances to discipleship which seem to be indicated in this collection of narratives are: unbelief, dullness, rivalry, prejudice, vengefulness, impulsiveness, and half-heartedness. Against these we may antithetically set, as those qualities which should characterize the followers of Christ: faith, discernment, humility, consideration, patience, forethought and wholeheartedness. The cultivation of these virtues will conform us to the image of our Lord, and make us to tread the path of true discipleship with its holy privileges.
These qualities are essential features of the Kingdom of God, and it was the extension and the power of that spiritual kingdom which the Lord was pressing upon His actual or would-be followers.
