The Parables Of Jesus

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2. The Parables Of Jesus

3. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Overview • “Earthly story with heavenly meaning” (usual “definition” given) • “Parable” = “To place, lay along beside” • A story placing one thing beside another to teach or explain something

4. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Overview • The “unknown” (heavenly, spiritual) is placed along side the “known” (earthly) • Parables are not… • …Proverbs(short statements) • …Myths, Fables(fanciful folklore)

5. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Overview • Parables are not… • …Allegories(symbolic stories where every element has a meaning • Not all “parable details” have meaning • Some only “add color to the story”

6. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Overview • “Parabole” occurs 50 times in N.T. • Found 48 times in Synoptic Gospels • The word does not occur in John • Vast majority in Matthew & Luke – Mark mainly focused on Jesus’ deeds, not words

7. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Overview • Some writers “classify” Jesus’ parables • Not all parables have the same objective • “Teaching” – Training disciples for work • “Evangelistic” – God’s concern for the lost • “Prophetic” – obedience; God’s judgment

8. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Why Parables? • Why didn’t the Lord just come right out and plainly teach His Father’s will? • Even asked by His disciples Mt 13:10 • His answer Ù the receptive nature of man’s heart Mt 13:11-16

9. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Why Parables? • Thus, parables were never meant to “confuse” or “frustrate” anyone • They were meant to be understood by anyone that desires them Jn 7:17 • That determination is made by you & me

10. The same sun that melts the butter also hardens the clay. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Why Parables? • God’s word will always do 1 of 2 things… • Pull the honest (interested) heart in • Drive the proud (uninterested) heart away

11. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Why Parables? • The parable’s lesson may not always be immediately evident…it may require effort • Some accept what others reject • Divine wisdom vs. Human wisdom 1 Cor 1:18-25 2 Thess 2:10-12

12. Lesson 1 – General Introduction The Setting Of Parables • Very important…establishes context • If we understand the incident producing the parable, the lesson will be easier • Best understood when viewing Jesus’ ministry in 3 1-year intervals

13. Lesson 1 – General Introduction The Setting Of Parables • Year 1 – “Year Of Obscurity” (unknown) • Year 2 – “Year Of Popularity” (famous)Mk 1:28 • Year 3 – “Year Of Adversity” (opposed) 8 8 4

14. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Good Rules To Follow • Remember these 3 points… • Some incident occurred • Jesus responded with a parable • Some principle lesson is to be learned

15. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Good Rules To Follow • Study with these objectives… • Pay attention to context • Look for the principle lesson to be learned • Don’t make the parable stand on all 4 legs! (it is a parable…not an allegory)

16. Lesson 1 – General Introduction Good Rules To Follow • Study with these objectives… • Don’t attempt to establish doctrinal principles solely by the parable • Most importantly…don’t forget to make personal application

17. The Parable Of The Two Debtors Luke 7:40-43

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