Sunday, January 10, 2021 am
THE TEACHINGS OF JESUS (32) The Parables Jesus Taught (1) An Introduction to Parables Welcome to year 2 of our studying the teachings of Jesus. We devoted last year to the Sermon on the Mount (with the interruption of a pandemic). There is so much to learn from the teachings of Jesus. If He is our Lord and He whom we are to imitate, then it would do us well to consider His teachings. That is why I am extending that theme throughout this year. And even with this (about 40 more lessons), we will not cover all of His teachings. So this year, I want to examine some of the parables Jesus taught, and then we will notice some of His claims from the gospel of John, some of His other sermons including His teachings on the night of His betrayal, and follow this with other subjects that Jesus addressed – some pleasant and others controversial or even harsh. But they are all truth and designed for us to learn from them. Today, we begin examining the parables of Jesus. I.
Some thoughts about parables a. What is a parable – a transliteration of the Greek word (παραβολή, parabolē) meaning to cast beside of. The idea is that something is explained by comparing it to something else, usually something mysterious or spiritual that is better understood with a practical, physical illustration. The parables of Jesus typically appealed to everyday activities that everyone might observe. Other definitions: A short, simple story designed to communicate some spiritual truth or lesson. “An earthly story, with a heavenly meaning” b. We have recorded more about 32 parables that Jesus taught s in the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark & Luke). John records no parables. There may also be a few other parables hidden within other sermons of Jesus (such as the two builders – Matthew 7:24-27) The word parable as used by Jesus is found about 48 times in the gospels, and is FIRST mentioned in Matthew 13:3. c. When studying the parables: i. Look for the intended meaning – most parables teach one central truth – with associated details. (If more than one lesson is to be gleaned, apply them all). ii. But NOT every detail necessarily has a significance in application. Example: Parable of the landowner is not about wage inequity, but God’s mercy. (Matthew 20:1-16) iii. Try to research the background or setting of the parable. 1. That might give you a better understanding – example: A friend comes at midnight (Luke 11:5-10). Knowing about the typical home with animals helps. 2. Also, consider the context in which the parable is stated. Many parables are answers to questions or inquiries. Note the context as you apply the message. IN many instances, Jesus explained the parables – that is part of their context and crucial to properly understanding the intended message. 3. This will also help us to see certain details that might not still apply, though they did back then. iv. Also, parables do not typically formulate doctrine, rather they confirm or help explain doctrine. For example: Jesus taught plainly that He intended to establish His kingdom/church. Parables which deal with the kingdom are taught with that understanding already established.