Parables

Crowds gather around Jesus from the start of his ministry. His teaching compels them to follow him. Some find that he speaks directly to their hearts. Others are captivated by the risk he poses to the current establishment. Some want to crown him King. Others seek to kill him. One essential teaching element contributes to his allure—parables, which are small stories that use common, earthly things to reveal heavenly meaning. Jesus uses these stories to reveal who he is, his way, and his realm. They paint a picture of what God is doing. Like a canvas that must be observed, his parables force his audience to pause and mull them over. To do so is to gain deeper meaning...