Why Did Jesus Teach In Parables

Why Did Jesus Teach in Parables? Jesus’ Surprising Answer

David W. Jones contributed to this article. What was the purpose of Jesus teaching via parables? We must first grasp what parables are in order to be able to respond to this issue. The Gospels contain a total of 39 different parables of Jesus. Each of these stories has a different length, ranging from the Parable of the Old Garment, which is only one verse long (see Luke 5:36), to the Parable of the Prodigal Son, which is about twenty-one verses long (see Luke 15:11–32). Others exist in each of the Synoptic Gospels, whilst other parables are exclusive to one Gospel story and cannot be found in any other.

The term “parable” literally translates as “to come beside” in the Greek language.

Parables are not fables because they transmit more than just a moral truth; and since they concentrate on more than just words and phrases, parables are not metaphors, similes, or word images because they focus on more than just words and phrases.

Matt.

At first look, parables may appear to modern readers to be vivid illustrations of Jesus’ teachings that serve to clarify them.

What about Jesus’ use of parables, on the other hand, do you think is correct?

Why Did Jesus Teach in Parables?

Note how, immediately following the telling of the Parable of the Soils, which is recorded in all three of the Synoptic Gospels (see Matt. 13:3–23; Mark 4:2–32; Luke 8:4–15), and before He explained its meaning, Jesus was questioned by His disciples, “Why do You speak to the crowds in parables?” (Matt. 13:3–23; Mark 4:2–32; Luke 8:4–15). (Matt. 13:10; Luke 13:10) The exact reason why the apostles asked this question is not specified; nevertheless, it is possible that the disciples were concerned that the people would not grasp Jesus’ teachings if they did not ask this question (cf.

• In any case, Christ’s response to the disciples’ query concerning His use of parables is both startling and enlightening, regardless of the reason for their questioning.
• 13:11).
• For the avoidance of confusion or misinterpretation, Jesus pointed out that the veiling of spiritual truths from the unbelieving people is in fact a fulfillment of an Old Testament prophesy found in Isa.
• 6:9 and the following statement: “And Jesus said to them, ‘To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it has been given in parables, that “Seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand”‘ (Luke 8:10; cf.
• However, this raises the question of why Jesus would purposely conceal truth from those who do not believe in him.
• 2 Thessalonians 2:11–12), which we might highlight as a response to this.

Rom. 3:20; 10:17), whereas rejection always results in misunderstanding and hardness of heart (cf. Rom. 3:20). (cf. Ps. 81:12; Rom. 1:24). This concept is conveyed throughout the whole book of Scripture.

Jesus’ Parables and Self-Evaluation

We can take comfort in the fact that, even if certain parables of Christ in the Gospel narratives can be difficult to comprehend, the Holy Spirit, who indwells all of God’s people, will “guide. into all truth” us when we read them (John 16:13) because God’s Word, which includes parables, is the unalterable truth (cf. John 17:17). In any case, if the parables of Christ do not make sense to us, and especially if their meaning escapes the understanding of the people to whom we are ministering, we should consider Jesus’ teaching on the purpose of parables.

The Rev.

Jones is a Professor of Christian Ethics at Southeastern Seminary, where he also serves as the Associate Dean of Theological Studies and Director of the Theological Masters Program.

He writes on the Bible on his website, redeemedmind.com.

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Why did Jesus teach in parables?

QuestionAnswer It has been claimed that aparable is a narrative with an earthy setting but a heavenly message. The Lord Jesus regularly used parables to illustrate profound, divine truths, and he did so repeatedly throughout his ministry. Storytelling like this is easy to recall, the characters are memorable, and the symbolism is replete with depth of meaning. In Judaism, parables were a frequent method of imparting knowledge. Before a certain point in His career, Jesus had used a number of vivid metaphors using everyday objects that were recognizable to everyone (salt, bread, sheep, and so on), and the meaning of these analogies was quite obvious when taken in the context of His teaching.

The question is why Jesus would allow the vast majority of people to be perplexed by the meaning of His parables.

Before He began to explain this tale, He separated His followers from the rest of the audience.

In other words, to those who have, more will be given to them, and they will have an abundance; but to those who do not possess, even what they possess will be taken away from them.

When it comes to them, the prophesy of Isaiah is being fulfilled, which states that “You will hear with dull ears and will not comprehend; You will see with dull eyes and will no longer see; For the hearts of this people have become dull.” In order to prevent them from being able to see with their eyes and hear with their ears, they have closed their eyelids, lest they be able to comprehend with their hearts and turn, therefore allowing me to cure them.

1. The blessings of God are upon your eyes because they see, and upon your ears because they hear.
2. From this point on in Jesus’ mission, when He talked in parables, He exclusively explained them to His disciples, and this was the case throughout His ministry.
3. He established a clear contrast between those who had been given “ears to hear” and those who persevered in disbelief, saying that they were constantly listening but never genuinely perceiving, and that they were “always learning but never able to recognize the truth” (2 Timothy 3:7).
4. They received more and more truth as a result of their acceptance of Jesus’ message of truth.
5. He has opened our eyes to the light of truth and our ears to the pleasant words of eternal life, and we are grateful to him for doing so.
6. The simple truth is that there are some who have no interest or care for the incomprehensible mysteries of the divine.
7. For people who have a true desire for God, the parable is a powerful and unforgettable vehicle for conveying divine truths to others who are hungry for God.
8. As a result, the tale is a benefit to those who are prepared to listen.

However, for individuals with dull hearts and ears that are slow to hear, the parable can serve as both a tool of judgment and a tool of charity. Questions regarding Jesus Christ (return to top of page) What was the purpose of Jesus teaching via parables?

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Why Did Jesus Teach in Parables?

People were taken aback by Jesus’ method of teaching. It was engrossing and easy to read and understand. He taught through the use of short allegorical stories known as parables. In fact, Mark informs us that when Jesus taught, “He never said anything to them without first telling them a parable” (Mark 4:34a, New International Version). It was for this reason that people were taken aback by His teaching. The manner in which He communicated was open to everybody, yet it retained an air of power that first-century Jews had never encountered.

1. Parables were easy to understand

Much of the conversation about spirituality is centered on abstract notions and ideas. As a result, some individuals shun them because they believe they are unrealistic and useless. Jesus desired to bypass the professors of the law and deliver His message directly to the people, which meant He needed to speak in a way that would be understandable to those who heard Him. Jesus was able to communicate religious truths in a way that was immediately relatable to those who heard Him speak in parables.

After hearing a tale, people become more interested in the discussion that follows.

In order to do so, people must engage the identical parts of their brain as they would if they were actually experiencing the tale.

Engaging the imagination of the audience allowed Jesus’ teaching to truly resonate with the audience.

2. Parables are easy to remember

Numerous spiritual debates center on abstract notions and ideas that are difficult to grasp. People shun them because they believe they are ineffective and unrealistic. Jesus desired to bypass the professors of the law and deliver His message directly to the people, which meant He needed to speak in a way that would be understandable to the audience. Jesus was able to communicate religious truths in a way that was immediately understandable to those who heard Him speak in parables. When these realities connected with aspects of their everyday existence, such as bread baking, farming, and travel, they were able to comprehend them.

Involving the regions of their brains responsible for language processing isn’t the only thing they’re doing here.

When people heard the story of the prodigal son, they may be surprised that a kid had asked for his inheritance so early, or they would feel compassion for the little boy as he began to suffer. Engaging the imagination of the audience enabled Jesus’ teaching to truly resonate with the audience.

This made it easier for Christ’s listeners to recall and impart these same truths to others in a straightforward manner.

3. Parables reveal the hearts of the listeners

Sometimes individuals place a high value on notions that are difficult to comprehend and comprehend fully. It gives them the impression that they are intelligent and significant. Many of the Pharisees fit this description. People like this are dismissive of concepts that are too easily understandable. But this is because, rather than seeking the truth, these leaders desired to be the exclusive proprietors and administrators of esoteric beliefs, rather than seeking the truth. Given that Jesus’ parables were easily understandable by everyone, the Pharisees were inclined to reject them as stupid and insignificant.

1. Jesus communicated the fundamentals of the kingdom in a way that even a toddler could understand them.
2. When the disciples inquire as to why Jesus speaks in parables, Jesus responds by stating that this is the case.
3. Whoever possesses will be given much more, and they will have an excess of resources.
4. It’s for this reason that I talk to them in parables: ‘They see, but they don’t see; they hear, but they do not hear, and they do not comprehend.'” (Matthew 13:11–13, New International Version)

The enduring importance of parables

According to Jesus’ instructions in the Great Commission, they should go forth and make further disciples. “Teaching them to observe all that I have ordered you” was a component of that obligation (Matthew 28:20a, NIV). The fact that Jesus’ teachings were so simply grasped and remembered made it feasible to carry out this instruction. And why Jesus’ teachings are so simple to understand and communicate today! Do you have a favorite fable that you like to tell? Leave us a comment and tell us which one is your favorite, as well as why you like it.

Why Did Jesus Teach in Parables?

When compared to His prior teaching at the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus’ use of parables may appear to be out of character. With precise instructions, He taught His disciples how to live and about the Kingdom of God, and through His miracles, He demonstrated the Kingdom in a physical way to the rest of the world. But then, when the multitudes gather to hear Him, He jumps into a boat and begins to teach in parables, telling stories about spreading seeds and collecting wheat, among other things (Matthew 13).

1. To put it another way, the parables are intended to split the audience.
2. The parables themselves are straightforward stories based on real-life occurrences that many in the audience would be familiar with.
3. All of those assembled there were undoubtedly aware of the portions of the stories that were relevant to their everyday lives.
4. His miracles had attracted a large number of people, and some may have been taken aback by His earlier teaching.
5. Those who are devoted to the Kingdom of God will seek and gain additional insight.

Those who are not dedicated, or who are simply listening because of the first thrill, would dismiss the instruction as incomprehensible and turn away. The following is an adaptation of Alfred Edersheim’s The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah (Book III, Chapter XXIII).

Why did Jesus use parables?

What was the purpose of Jesus’ use of parables? Q: I’ve heard that Jesus told parables in order to confound his listeners. Please provide an explanation. Answer: The Bible provides insight into Jesus’ use of parables, but the aim of the parables was far larger than causing misunderstanding. First and foremost, we must examine the Scriptures to better understand why Jesus chose parables to communicate his ideas. Following that, we might consider the applicability of the values or teachings to our everyday religious practices.

• Essentially, it is a process of comparison that begins with the familiarity of everyday life and progresses to a greater level of comprehension.
• The Lord’s praises, as well as His might and the magnificent deeds that He has accomplished, are being communicated to future generations.” God’s forgiveness and judgment are shown in one of the powerful stories in 2 Samuel 12:1-15.
• “There were two individuals, one of whom was wealthy and the other who was impoverished.
• He treated her as though she were a daughter.
• “The Lord has also forgiven your wrongdoing, and you will not perish; but, the child who is born to you will perish,” Nathan informed David.
• In the New Testament, the books of Luke, Mark, and Matthew include a total of 55 parables.
• People were drawn to him because he told them engaging stories about ordinary life that they could relate to.

Many people have stated that reading scripture alone is not sufficient; meditation is also required.

When questioned by the disciples why he used parables, Jesus responded by saying that he was going to fulfill the words of the prophet and unveil the mysteries that had been hidden since the beginning of time.

As a result, I communicate to them in parables, because they are unable to see and hear, and consequently, they are unable to comprehend.” The majority of individuals must learn how to see and hear.

They would be lead by the spirit to deep truths if they listened to the dictates of their hearts and followed them.

To put it another way, the soil must be prepared, and the seeds or roots must be nourished in order for them to survive and bear fruit.

I recommend that you study the parables since they are still applicable today.

A few of closing comments from the Bible that are pertinent to everyday life: “It is not the things that go into a man’s mouth that defile him, but it is the things that come out of his mouth that defile him.” “This is my command: Love one another,” says Jesus in Matthew 15:11.

(See also John 15:17.) The Winston-Salem Journal publishes Earl Crow’s column on Saturdays, which may be found here. Send him an email at [email protected]. Get the latest local news sent directly to your inbox!

Why Did Jesus Speak in Parables?

The use of parables was one of the strategies that Jesus used to communicate His message to the people. A parable is essentially a narrative with an earthy setting and a heavenly message. When Jesus began speaking parables to the crowds, His followers immediately inquired as to why He was doing so. “Why do You talk to them in parables?” they inquired. (See Matthew 13:10 for further information.) Jesus Responds in a Surprisingly Direct Manner The answer given by Jesus to the question was rather instructive.

1. Furthermore, the prophesy of Isaiah, which states that “you will hear but will not comprehend, and you will see but will not discern, since the heart of this people has become dull,” is fulfilled in them.
2. The fact why Jesus spoke through parables was due to the people’s reluctance to accept the kingdom message that He brought them.
3. Not because God was keeping the truth from them, but rather because they were unwilling to hear it.
4. God has provided the people with every opportunity to accept the gospel of Jesus Christ.
5. Despite the fact that Jesus presented the required qualifications as the Messiah, they did not believe Him.
6. It was only those who trusted in Jesus as the Messiah who would be able to comprehend the parables.

They Must Be Acknowledged on a Spiritual Level The Apostle Paul would later reaffirm this truth: “But we proclaim the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden knowledge which God designed before the ages for our glory, which none of the rulers of this age knew; for if they had known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” Because, apart from the spirit of the man that is within him, who knows what a man understands about himself?

• Even likewise, no one other than the Holy Spirit has access to the things of God.
• The majority of people were uninterested in the truth.
• The vast majority of people in Jesus’ day were uninterested in God’s truth, as was the case today.
• SummaryJesus spoke through parables, which were earthy stories with a divine purpose.

He did this so that his disciples would be able to comprehend his teachings and that unbelievers would be unable to understand them. Others who are interested in knowing the reality of his message will be able to comprehend it, while those who are not interested will stay in the dark about it.

Why Did Jesus Teach Using Parables?

The 19th of March, 2019 The Parable of the Sower is a parable that tells the story of a farmer who plants a seed and waits for it to grow. Seedling image courtesy of Pexels and used with permission from Pixabay. Jesus’ teaching mission is famous for the fact that He regularly used parables, which are brief religiously educational stories “that make use of people, events, and rituals that are familiar to their audience,” to communicate his message. 1 In fact, as recounted in the New Testament Gospels, Jesus employed almost 50 parables and other metaphors during his career, which is a significant number.

• In this chapter, Jesus directly replies to the issue posed by his followers, “Why talk to them in parables?” (Why do you speak to them in parables?).
• 10).
• As a result, I talk to them in parables, since they see but do not see, and they hear but do not understand nor do they comprehend.
• For truly I say unto you, many prophets and upright men have wished to see the things that you see, but have not been able to do so; and to hear the things that you hear, but have not been able to hear them; and to see the things that you hear, but have not been able to hear them.

Some of Jesus’ listeners were not prepared to “understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven,” in contrast to the disciples, who were well equipped to “understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.” The prophet Joseph Smith claimed that this lack of preparedness was due to disbelief among Jesus’ larger audience, which he attributed to the apostles.

1. His disciples were one audience, and they were spiritually prepared to comprehend deeper gospel truths in His parables “because of the faith and confidence that they had in him.” Another audience was the rest of the world.
2. Jesus, on the other hand, was not the only one who taught via parables.
3. Another parable is used to demonstrate the nature of Zion’s salvation in latter-days (Doctrine and Covenants 101:43–62), which is also included in the Book of Mormon.
4. 4 It is because of the variety and broad application of parables, particularly the parables of Jesus, that they have been used as a teaching tool for centuries.
5. “Parables are perceived to have several layers of significance and may be comprehended in a variety of ways depending on the listener’s sensitivity and spiritual preparation.” 5 It is for this reason that any study of Jesus’ parables is best done under the guidance of the Holy Spirit in mind.

The Parables of Jesus: Revealing the Plan of Salvation, by John W. and Jeannie S. Welch, is a book written by John W. and Jeannie S. Welch (American Fork, UT: Covenant Communications, 2019). From March 18th through March 24th, 2019

Why did Jesus use parables so often?

The Bible states in Matthew 13:3 that Jesus “told them many things in parables.” Much of what Jesus taught came in the form of parables, which are stories that include spiritual ideas, which are sometimes defined as stories with spiritual concepts embedded within them. What was the purpose of Jesus teaching via parables? When the followers of Jesus questioned Him about why He spoke in parables, He said, “I speak in parables because I want to teach people.” “It has been granted to you the knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but it has not been granted to them at this time.

• This is why I talk to them in parables, because they cannot see, nor can they hear, nor can they comprehend what I am saying to them ” (Matthew 13:11-13).
• First and foremost, Jesus utilized parables to make His teaching obvious to everyone, but the significance was revealed only to those who were able to comprehend them.
• The entire significance of the stories would frequently be revealed to his students after they had heard them for the first time.
• The words of Jesus were not those of erudite intellectuals, but rather those of common people who could relate to His message and understand it.
• As stated in Matthew 7:29, “he was instructing them as one who had authority, rather than as their scribes.” To bolster their arguments, the scribes frequently referred to lengthy parts of the Torah as well as oral traditions from other Jewish leaders.
• Fourth, parables were a frequent mode of cultural exchange in the past.
• Consequently, He was able to connect with His audience in a manner that religious leaders were unable to, by speaking to their needs while also imparting spiritual truth.
• His use of parables, or stories with a spiritual message, was employed for a variety of purposes throughout his ministry.
• These and other facts point to a Messiah whose love was extended to everyone while also revealing information to different people in different ways, something God continues to accomplish in the lives of individuals today via the teachings of His Word.
• In what ways do dreams and visions appear in the Bible?

What was it like to be Jesus in historical times? Who was Jesus as a human being? What were the most significant events in Jesus’ life? Should Christians pass judgment on the teachings of their religious authorities? Return to the page: The Truth About Jesus Christ.

Why Did Jesus Teach in Parables?

It has been stated that a picture is worth a thousand words, and that is most likely true. In the case of someone who has never seen a sunset, I could spend hours explaining one to them, and your mental picture would still be inadequate. In the absence of the real thing, it would be necessary to look at a photograph in order to comprehend the vastness and beauty of a sunset. Then there are abstract ideas such as virtue and pride to consider. How can we effectively comprehend something that we cannot see, hear, or touch?

To the point that the two smartest men who ever lived—Simon and Jesus—both employed word images extensively in their teaching, demonstrating the importance of word pictures in conveying truth.

What is a parable?

It has been said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and that is most likely correct. If you have never seen a sunset, I could spend hours describing one to you, yet your mental picture of it would still be insufficient. A sunset’s grandeur and magnificence would be impossible to comprehend in person, thus a photograph of one would suffice to convey the same feeling. However, there are abstract ideas such as virtue and pride that may be used to describe anything. How can we fully comprehend something that we cannot see, hear, or touch?

As a matter of fact, word images are so effective at expressing truth that they were employed frequently by the two smartest men who ever lived, Solomon and Jesus, in their teaching.

This Claim Nailed Jesus to the Cross

Solomon’s proverbs are powerful in their simplicity; for example, “The tongue of the righteous is a spring of life” (“The mouth of the righteous”) (Proverbs 10:11). However, we can recognize the importance of pure, drinking water even if we cannot envision holiness. The stories of Jesus are lengthier, yet they are no less eloquent. They transmit tremendous spiritual truth and push us to grow as a result of their simple demonstrations. It’s tough to forget the stories he shared with us. A parable, according to one definition, is an earthly narrative with a heavenly significance.

1. Isn’t that what education is all about, in the first place?
2. In His tales, Jesus characterizes the poor as breaking bread, repairing cloths, and cleaning the floor to make their living.
3. Several of Jesus’ parables depict a Pharisee and a tax collector worshipping in the temple, as well as Lazarus and a rich man interacting with each other from opposite ends of the afterlife: heaven and hell.
4. The story takes place in a desolate location where a man is attacked by robbers, and on a bend in the road where a father sees his son returning home after being away in a foreign land.

With open ears and hearts, He reveals a whole new kingdom—the kingdom of heaven—to those who are willing to listen and to believe.—Extracted from The Jeremiah Study Bible.

Jesus is the TRUTH

A dialogue between Jesus and his followers in Matthew 13 is recorded, in which they raise the identical issue we are pondering: “Why do You talk to us in parables?” (Second verse 10) His reaction is as follows: Because you have been given the knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but others have not been given this knowledge. Anyone who possesses more will be given more, and he will be in abundance; nevertheless, whomever does not possess more will be taken away from him, and even what he possesses will be taken away from him.

1. Matthew 13:11-13 is a biblical passage.
2. Those who respond positively to what they have been given will receive more and continue to grow, but those who refuse to accept what they have been given may lose their ability to comprehend spiritual topics in the future.
3. Prior to this, Jesus instructed His disciples to apply the same level of discrimination, instructing them to “Do not give what is holy to dogs; not toss your pearls before wolves, lest they crush them under their feet, turn and rip you in pieces” (Matthew 7:6).
4. Whenever individuals block their eyes and ears to biblical teaching, Jesus urges us to go on and concentrate our efforts on those who are open to the pearls of wisdom found inside God’s Word.

Parables Reveal Truth With Specificity

A dialogue between Jesus and his followers in Matthew 13 is recorded, in which they raise the identical issue we are pondering: “Why do you talk to us in parables?” In verse 10, the author writes: He has responded in the following manner. Because you have been given the ability to comprehend the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but others have not been given this ability to comprehend. Anyone who possesses more will be given more, and he will be in abundance; but, whomever does not possess more will be taken away from him, and even what he already possesses will be taken away.

Matt.

The “mysteries of the kingdom of heaven” are disclosed selectively by divine revelation, according to the will of the Father.

Any failure to receive revelation is due to a lack of desire to do so.

It takes discretion to share the Gospel. When individuals block their eyes and ears to biblical teaching, Jesus encourages us to go on and concentrate our efforts on those who are open to the pearls of wisdom found inside God’s Word.

Parables Reveal Truth to Those With Spiritual Sensitivity

As a result of Jesus’ death and resurrection, the apostle Paul wrote a pastoral letter to the church at Corinth in which he made a comparison between earthly understanding and spiritual knowledge. “For the message of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but it is the power of God to us who are being saved,” he writes. Due to the fact that it is stated, “I will ruin the knowledge of the wise, and I will put to naught the insight of the cautious” (1 Corinthians 1:18-19).

Jesus Invites Our Curiosity

Several months after Jesus’ death and resurrection, the apostle Paul sent a pastoral letter to the church at Corinth in which he contrasted earthly knowledge with spiritual knowledge. It is said by him that, “The message of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but it is the power of God to those who are being saved.” Due to the fact that it is written: “I will ruin the knowledge of the wise, and I will put to naught the insight of the cautious” (1 Corinthians 1:18-19).

Parables Offer the Power and Privilege of Discipleship

Peter Parker is a fictional character who, after undergoing a transformation, becomes the web-slinging superhero known as Spider-Man. Peter is an uncomfortable high school student who has difficulty relating to others when he is not using his false persona. However, when he assumes the identity of Spider-Man, Peter obtains magical abilities that enable him to avoid evil and protect mankind from the criminal underworld. His persona is credited for popularizing the current phrase, “With great power comes tremendous responsibility.” If we take on the mantle of Jesus Christ, we will be able to access extraordinary power as well.

As His modern-day disciples, we have the same privilege as they have.

What is a disciple?

The worddisciples, which is frequently used in the New Testament to characterize Jesus’ followers, literally translates as “learners” in the Greek language. These students were receiving instruction from the very best—literally the greatest instructor the world has ever known. When we speak about discipleship, we are referring to the process of learning. That doesn’t just suggest memorizing a few of facts, though. It also entails developing a desire to serve God and living boldly. —This is an excerpt from Chapter 4 of The Jesus You May Not Know.

We have access to the wisdom of the centuries, just as the Twelve had, and we are now accountable for it as well.

If this is the case, open your Bible and your heart and allow God to tell you a narrative.

Parable	Scriptures
A Friend in Need	Luke 11:5-13
A Wise Man Builds on Rock and a Foolish Man Builds on Sand	Matthew 7:24-27; Luke 6:47-49
Building a Tower and a King Making War	Luke 14:25-35
Lamp Under a Basket	Matthew 5:14-16; Mark 4:21-22; Luke 8:16-17; 11:33-36
New Wine in Old Wineskins	Matthew 9:17; Mark 2:22; Luke 5:37-38
The Absent Householder	Mark 13:33-37
The Barren Fig Tree	Luke 13:6-9
The Creditor and Two Debtors	Luke 7:41-43
The Dragnet	Matthew 13:47-50
The Faithful Servant and the Evil Servant	Luke 12:35-38
The Fig Tree	Matthew 24:32-44; Mark 13:28-32; Luke 21:29-33
The Good Samaritan	Luke 10:30-37
The Great Supper	Luke 14:16-24
The Growing Seed	Mark 4:26-29
The Hidden Treasure	Matthew 13:44
The Leaven	Matthew 13:33; Luke 13:20-21
The Lost Coin	Luke 15:8-10
The Lost Sheep	Matthew 18:12-14; Luke 15:3-7
The Lost Son	Luke 15:11-32
The Minas (Pounds)	Luke 19:11-27
The Mustard Seed	Matthew 13:31, 32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18-19
The Pearl of Great Price	Matthew 13:45-46
The Persistent Widow	Luke 18:1-8
The Pharisee and the Tax Collector	Luke 18:9-14
The Rich Fool	Luke 12:16-21
The Rich Man and Lazarus	Luke 16:19-31
The Sower	Matthew 13:3-23; Mark 4:2-20; Luke 8:4-15
The Talents	Matthew 25:14-30
The Tares (Weeds)	Matthew 13:24-30
The Two Sons	Matthew 21:28-32
The Unforgiving Servant	Matthew 18:23-35
The Unjust Steward	Luke 16:1-13
The Wedding Feast	Matthew 22:2-14
The Wicked Vinedressers	Matthew 21:33-45
The Wise and Foolish Virgins	Matthew 25:1-13
The Workers in the Vineyard	Matthew 20:1-16
Unshrunk (New) Cloth on an Old Garment	Matthew 9:16; Mark 2:21; Luke 5:36
Unprofitable Servants	Luke 17:7-10

According to the Jeremiah Study Bible, this chart has been altered.

Dr. David Jeremiah’s book, The Jesus You May Not Know, has an excerpt from this topic. If you’re ready to make the transition from knowing about Jesus to knowing Jesus personally, order the book right away.

Please explain: Why did Jesus use parables to teach?

It is possible to express complicated topics in a more understandable manner using Aesop’s fables, a good sermon example, or an analogy. In a similar vein, Jesus employed parables (Matthew 13, Mark 4, Luke 15) to explain facts in a simple and easy-to-understand manner. However, what exactly is a parable? Perhaps you learnt that a parable is a narrative that takes place on earth but has a spiritual purpose. That well-known, straightforward definition will lead us to explore more in-depth reasons for Jesus’ use of parables in his teaching.

Relatable

Aesop’s fables, a good sermon example, an analogy—all of these are effective tools for communicating complicated topics in a way that is simpler to comprehend. To express realities in a simple and understandable manner, Jesus utilized parables (Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 15). A parable, on the other hand, is something other. A parable, you may have known, refers to a narrative with an earthly setting that has a heavenly significance. It is via that basic, well-known concept that we will be able to discover some of the deeper reasons why Jesus taught through parables.

Memorable

I would think that many of us may recall a number of parables from our childhood. What is the reason behind this? Because parables are earthy, realistic stories, they are more remembered than other types of storytelling. In a parable, there is also a hook, which is a memorable event that draws the reader’s interest. “The kingdom of heaven is like.” says the narrator. The Bible says (Matthew 22:2). Jesus is ready to speak about the afterlife (heaven). You think I’m in? You’re wrong! This hook not only makes the tale memorable for you, but it also makes it simpler for you to repeat the story to others later on in the day.

In every story there is an introduction, a challenge or issue, and an ending.

Surprising

“No, I am your father,” says the narrator. One of the major revelations from The Empire Strikes Back is the fact that the Emperor is a woman. A well-executed plot twist or surprise enhances the overall impact of any film or media production. Consider the parables for a moment. Plot twists and shocks are also common, and they usually serve to emphasize our Lord’s unexpected grace. Do you remember the surprises? The father physically welcomes the prodigal son back into the family with wide arms, while the older brother is dissatisfied with the decision (Luke 15:11-32).

Surprising?

Useful

I am your father, and I am not your grandfather.” One of the major revelations from The Empire Strikes Back is the fact that the Emperor is a female. A well-executed plot twist or surprise enhances the overall impact of any film or other media. Consider the parables for a minute. Plot twists and shocks are also common in Christian fiction, and they usually serve to emphasize our Lord’s unforeseen grace. Those surprises, do you recall? This causes the elder brother to be displeased with his father, who practically welcomes him back with open arms (Luke 15:11-32).

The landowner kindly provides the same remuneration to individuals who worked one hour as well as to those “who have bore the load of the job and the heat of the day,” according to the landowner’s statement (Matthew 20:12). Surprising? Yes!

Timeless

Since the time that Jesus originally taught his parables, there have been several new discoveries in agriculture and travel as well. Computers and the internet have fundamentally altered our way of life. However, Jesus’ parables continue to be relevant because they have a timeless quality to them. That ageless quality lends itself to anything you want to do with the tales in the present day. You can still get knowledge from them. These same stories can be revisited several times, revealing additional divine truths and the layers of meaning that have been incorporated into them each time.

What has changed since the last time you and the parable met?

“Can you tell me what this fable has to teach me this time?” Because everyone is unique, the lessons contained in each story will strike you in a distinctive way.

A reflection of God’s heart

Have you noticed how many various reasons there are for employing parables? Are there any others? Yes! At Jesus’ day, parables were commonplace. In Matthew 13:10-13, Jesus provided another another explanation for his use of parables. But, for the time being, let us consider one more reason to be grateful for parables. According to Paul in Romans 11:34, “Who has understood the thoughts of the Lord?” These parables assist us in understanding not just God’s thoughts, but also God’s heart as well.

1. The picture isn’t always flawless and correct, just like an analogy, a sermon illustration, or one of Aesop’s tales, for example.
2. One day, though, we will see him for who he truly is; we will be able to speak with him face to face.
3. I can’t imagine the wealth of God’s intelligence and understanding unless I think about it!
4. Number 10 of Volume 107 of the journal Date of publication: October 2020 Currently, Souksamay Phetsanghane is a lecturer at Luther Preparatory School in Watertown, Wisconsin, and a member of St.
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No one has ever taught quite like Jesus! (See John 7:46.) When He was teaching people, He frequently used parables to convey his message. He did so in order to fulfill an Old Testament prophesy (Psalm 78:2; 49:4). Even while Jesus was not the first nor the last person in history to teach via parables, he did it in an unprecedented and effective manner. Depending on how one categorizes the stories delivered by Jesus, the New Testament contains anywhere from thirty to forty of His parables, according to various estimates.

1. Our English word “parable” is derived from the Greek word “/parabole,” which means “a placement of one item beside another, juxtaposition, as in the case of ships in combat.
2. This narrative, however, was distinct from others in that it had a spiritual message embedded inside the parable or fable.
3. As a result, it is apparent that parables were a type of symbolic language.
4. What was the purpose of the Master teaching via parables?
5. “Why do You talk to them in parables?” one of His followers once inquired of Him.
6. In one incident, a man who was attempting to excuse himself approached the Christ and inquired, “Who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29).
7. Jesus used the narrative to open the man’s eyes to the need of loving and showing compassion to all people, no matter who they are.

“But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and blessed are your ears, for they hear; for assuredly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous men wished to see what you see, but were unable to do so, and to hear what you hear, but were unable to do so.” This was part of Jesus’ response to the disciples’ question about why He taught in parables: “But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and blessed are your ears, for they hear” (Matthew 13:16,17).

In our previous discussion, we learned that Jesus declared that one who hungers and thirsts for righteousness will be satisfied (Matthew 5:6).

The use of parables by Jesus to conceal the truth from people who were hardhearted or disposed to mistreat it is likewise accurate.

That is exactly what happened with the Christ when He taught: “You will hear but not comprehend, and you will see but not discern; because the hearts of these people have become dull.” Their ears are deafeningly deafeningly deaf, and they have their eyes closed.

Despite the fact that God desires that everybody be saved (1 Timothy 2:4), Jesus came to save the sinful world as a result of God’s amazing love (Luke 19:10).

It’s important to remember that some people adored Christ, while others despised Him and His message.

Furthermore, Jesus employed parables to aid His listeners in remembering the teachings that were being taught to them.

Who could forget the story of the Prodigal Son or the Parable of the Lost Son?

And, of course, there’s the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) to consider.

The use of parables by our Lord had another practical purpose: He used parables to get His audience to grasp and accept a truth or principle before they recognized how it related to them.

In recounting a narrative to assist King David recognize his own guilt in his relations with Bathsheba, the prophet Nathan utilized such a technique to help David see his own sin (2 Samuel 12:1-6).

Following their hearing of this narrative, the Jewish authorities made an appropriate decision regarding what should be done with the persons in the story who had done something wrong.

Jesus’ parables were quite remarkable.

Instead of being afraid of them, let us recognize their tremendous significance in assisting us in understanding God’s intention for mankind. They will be extremely beneficial to anyone who study them with an open mind and a sincere desire to discover the truth. Roger D. Campbell, Ph.D.