1. The Parables of Jesus
Bible as Lit

2. Definitions An earthly story with a heavenly meaning
Some parables, however, are proverb-like, with hidden or allusive truth(s)
A comparison or analogy drawn from nature or human circumstances, the object of which is to set forth a spiritual lesson.
In general, parables have one central meaning

3. Parables in the Old Testament
The parable of the poor man and his ewe lamb (2 Sam 12:1-4)
The parable of the destroyed vineyard (Isaiah 5:1-7)
The parable of two eagles and a vine (Ezekiel 17:1-24)
The parable of lamenting over Israel’s princes (Ezekiel 19:1-14)
What do you think each one means?

4. The Parable Usually longer and more detailed than the similitude
Tells a story about a one-time fictitious event, so the parables are “Once upon a time…” stories even though they don’t use those words
Usually narrated in the past tense

5. The Similitude
The most concise type of parable that briefly narrates a typical or recurrent event from real life
Recounts what is widely recognized as being true
In Matthew and Mark, the similitudes begin:
“The Kingdom of God is like…”
In Luke, they begin “Which of you?” or “Or what king?”

6. The Exemplary Story
Presents an implied comparison between an event drawn from real life and a reality of the moral or religious order
Similitudes and parable present an analogy between two different things (e.g., a lost coin is a sinner)
The exemplary story presents are not analogies, but an example; e.g., the good Samaritan illustrates love of neighbor
All the exemplary stories occur in Luke

7. How did Jesus use parables?
Some are quite clear in meaning, others are obscure and need interpretation
Many of the tropes were well known and would be immediately understood by the audience
God was a ruler, parent, judge, owner of a vineyard
The people of Israel were servants, children, a vine, or a flock
The Judgment a harvest or reckoning
God’s reign as a feast or wedding

8. How did Jesus use parables?
“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” Jesus used parables to motivate hearers to make wise decisions
Those who correctly responded were called disciples who would be granted understanding
The same truth would be hidden from those who were unreceptive to the message of Jesus, e.g., the Pharisees
Read Matt. 13 and answer follow questions as group

9. Seven Questions What terms are repeated in the parable?
To what or whom is the most space devoted?
What is the main contrast in the parable?
What comes at the end?
What is spoken in direct discourse? (someone talking)
What characters are in the parable? Usually, there are two important ones.
How would you tell this story?