Parables of Jesus - More Than a Story

Parables – traditionally - “earthly stories with a heavenly meaning”
 
Matthew 13:34-35
All these things Jesus said to the crowds in parables; indeed, he said nothing to them without a parable. This was to fulfil what was spoken by the prophet: "I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world." 
 
Understanding Parables
A parable is a story or illustration with familiar or common elements designed to drive home a spiritual lesson. 

1. They are designed to reveal truth to believers by bringing insight or by confronting some area that is out of step with true obedience. Parables make truth clear.  
2. Jesus says that parables are designed to hide truth from those who have hardened their hearts against it. 

 
Most Parables reveal truth to believers, for non-believers parables are a complete mystery.
 
Another important thing to know about parables is that they are all designed to call for a personal response. They are controversial statements about the spiritual nature of Jesus’ kingdom both earthly and heavenly, designed to motivate or to offend. The parables were designed to be self-evident, and they would serve to reveal what a person really thought about Jesus and His kingdom.
 
Why Parables?
 
Jesus gives us four reasons why He speaks this way:
1. To highlight the mystery of the kingdom 
2. To exalt the sovereignty of God 
3. To expose hardness of heart 
4. To marvel at the beauty of God’s grace 
 
Another possible reason was to not give His enemies any ground. The enemies of Jesus were always waiting for Him to say something they could use against Him. By speaking in parables, Jesus was making it very hard for them. He could hardly be arrested for telling homely stories!
 
God Bless
Pastor Greg