Parables of Jesus

What exactly is a Parable?

A parable is a short, simple, fictional story that illustrates a moral, spiritual, or religious lesson, using relatable human characters and situations to explain abstract concepts. These stories often have a beginning, middle, and end and encourage listeners or readers to contemplate the deeper meaning and apply it to their own lives. Famous examples include the Parable of the Sower and the Parable of the Good Samaritan, used by Jesus to teach about spiritual matters.

Key Characteristics of a Parable

Short Story:

Parables are typically brief and concise, making them easy to remember and retell.

Relatable Characters & Settings:

They feature ordinary people and familiar situations that the audience can easily understand and connect with.

Moral or Spiritual Lesson:

The primary purpose is to teach a lesson about ethics, spiritual wisdom, or the nature of God.

Simple Structure:

Parables follow a basic narrative structure, including an introduction, a central conflict, and a conclusion that reveals the consequences of the characters' actions.

Purposeful Ambiguity:

Sometimes, the meaning is not immediately obvious, inviting listeners to seek deeper understanding and reflect on the message.

Why Parables Are Used

To Make the Unfamiliar Familiar:

They make complex or abstract ideas seem more accessible by comparing them to concrete, everyday experiences.

To Encourage Reflection:

Parables engage the imagination, drawing people into the story and prompting self-examination.

To Convey Truth:

In the context of Jesus' teachings, parables were used to reveal spiritual truths to those who desired to understand, while potentially hardening the hearts of those who were not seeking them.

Let's talk about the Parables of Jesus:

Lamp Under a Bowl

Matthew 5:14-15

^{14 "}Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid."

^{15 "}Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house."

Mark 4:21-22

^{21 "}And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?"

^{22 "}For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad."

Luke 8:16

^{16 "}No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light."

Luke 11:33

³³No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.

The Lamp Under a Bowl Parable:

Teaches that one should not hide their spiritual truth or light but instead put it on display for others to see and benefit from. The parable illustrates that just as a lamp is placed on a stand to illuminate a room, followers of Christ should live their faith openly so that their good works can bring glory to God and lead others to him.

Shine, Don't Hide:

The central theme is that a lamp's purpose is to give light, and it would be absurd to cover it. Similarly, followers of God are called to be a "light of the world" and not to hide their faith or spiritual talents under a bushel (a basket or bowl).

Purpose of Light:

The light provides illumination for everyone in the house. In a spiritual sense, this "light" can refer to God's word, the truth of the Gospel, or a believer's own good deeds and authentic Christian life.

Proclaim and Witness:

By putting their light on a stand, Christians are called to be witnesses, allowing their actions and words to reflect God's presence and goodness.

Matthew 5:14-16: Jesus teaches that his disciples are the light of the world, and their lives should shine so that others can see their good works and give praise to God.

Mark 4:21-22 & Luke 8:16: In these passages, Jesus uses the metaphor to show that nothing hidden is meant to stay hidden, and everything secret will be brought to light.

Living in the World: The parable serves as a reminder that faith should not be kept private but should be lived out transparently in all areas of life, influencing others positively.

The Modern Proverb: The parable is the source of the idiom "to hide one's light under a bushel," which means to conceal one's talents, abilities, or good qualities from others.

Wise and Foolish Builders

Matthew 7:24-27

^{24 "}Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:"

^{25 "}And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock."

^{26 "}And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:"

^{27 "}And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."

Luke 6:47-49

^{47 "}Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like:"

^{48 "}He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock."

^{49 "}But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great."

The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders is a story Jesus told about two men building houses: a wise builder who built his house on a solid rock foundation and a foolish builder who built his on sand. When a fierce storm with heavy rain came, the house on the rock remained standing, but the house on the sand collapsed. The parable teaches that a firm, obedient faith in God and His teachings, like the wise builder's solid foundation, provides spiritual stability during life's challenges, while a superficial understanding or failure to act on God's word, like building on sand, leads to spiritual ruin.

The Parable Explained:

The Wise Builder:

Listened to Jesus' teachings and built his life and faith on a solid rock foundation, symbolizing a foundation of obedience and action.

The Foolish Builder:

Heard Jesus' words but did not act on them, building his life and faith on a weak, unstable foundation of sand.

The Storm:

Represented the inevitable difficulties, trials, or challenges that life brings, which can include spiritual struggles or the final judgment.

The Outcome:

The wise builder's house stood firm, demonstrating that a life built on sincere faith and obedience is resilient. The foolish builder's house collapsed, showing that a life built on mere hearing or self-reliance without God's word is ultimately unstable and will not withstand trials.

The Core Message:

The parable emphasizes the critical importance of doing what God's word says rather than just hearing or understanding it. It teaches that true faith is expressed through obedience and consistent action, providing a secure foundation for navigating life's difficulties.

Why It Matters:

Foundation for Life:

Everyone is building their life, and this parable illustrates the foundation on which we build it.

Discipleship:

It highlights the difference between a superficial belief and a serious, active discipleship that puts God's teachings into practice.

Spiritual Resilience:

It assures believers that those who obey God's word will have inner peace and confidence, able to withstand the storms of life by trusting in God.

New Cloth on an Old Coat

Matthew 9:16

^{16 "}No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse."

Mark 2:21

^{21 "}No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old garment: else the new piece that filled it up taketh away from the old, and the rent is made worse."

Luke 5:36

^{36 "}And he spake also a parable unto them; No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old."

The "new cloth on old garment" parable, found in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, teaches that attempts to blend new teachings with old ways of life are destructive, as the "new cloth" (unshrunk fabric) will shrink and worsen the tear in the "old garment" (old system). The parable, often paired with the "new wine in old wineskins" parable, conveys Jesus' message that His new teachings and way of life are incompatible with the old religious systems and require a fundamental, internal change, not just outward patching.

The Parable in the Bible:

Matthew 9:16-17:

Jesus states, "No one sews a patch of new cloth on an old garment, for the patch will pull away from the garment, and the tear is made worse".

Mark 2:21-22:

Similar to Matthew, it highlights that the new patch will "pull away" and the "tear is made worse".

Luke 5:36-39:

Luke's version emphasizes that a patch from a new garment "will not match" the old one and that the new garment itself is ruined.

The Meaning of the Parable:

Incompatibility:

The core message is that Jesus' new teachings, the "new cloth," cannot simply be applied to the established religious and cultural traditions, the "old garment".

Shrinking and Tearing:

The new cloth would shrink when washed, causing it to pull away from the old fabric and create a larger tear. Similarly, Jesus' message could not be reconciled with the rigid, established traditions of the religious leaders at the time.

Mismatched Covenants:

The parable speaks to the incompatibility of the "new covenant" that Jesus was bringing with the old covenant and its associated practices.

Need for Transformation:

Jesus was ushering in a new era and a new way of relating to God, and this required a complete, internal transformation – a "new self" – rather than a superficial mixing of the old and the new.

Application for Today:

Avoiding Syncretism:

The parable cautions against trying to blend contemporary or worldly philosophies into core Christian beliefs without a clear distinction, as this can dilute or corrupt the truth.

Authentic Discipleship:

It teaches that following Jesus requires a commitment to transformation and leaving the "old self" behind, rather than simply "patching" old habits or beliefs with new ones.

Rejecting Complacency:

The phrase "no one after drinking old wine desires new" also serves as a warning against clinging to outdated traditions out of comfort or resistance to change.

New Wine in Old Wineskins

Matthew 9:17

^{17 "}Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish: but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved."

Mark 2:22

^{22 "}And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles."

Luke 5:37-38

^{37 "}And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish."

^{38 "}But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved."

The parable of new wine in old wineskins is a Jesus teaching found in the New Testament Gospels (Matthew 9:17, Mark 2:22, and Luke 5:37-39) illustrating that the new teachings of the Gospel of the Kingdom of God are incompatible with the rigid structures of the old Jewish Law and traditions, which are likened to inflexible old wineskins. Just as un-shrunk cloth will tear an old garment and new, fermenting wine will burst an old, brittle wineskin, the new covenant and the Holy Spirit's work cannot be contained or understood within the confines of outdated religious practices.

The Parable's Core Meaning:

New Wine Represents the New Covenant:

The "new wine" symbolizes Jesus' new teachings, the grace and power of the Holy Spirit, and the coming Kingdom of God.

Old Wineskins Represent Old Ways:

The "old wineskins" represent the established religious practices, traditions, and legalistic framework of the Old Covenant within Judaism.

Incompatibility:

The parable highlights the fundamental incompatibility between the fresh, liberating, and transformative power of the new message and the inflexible, worn-out structures of the old ways.

Why the New Cannot Fit the Old:

Chemical Reaction:

In the literal sense, new wine is still fermenting and produces gas, which requires flexibility in the container to expand safely. Old wineskins were often rigid and brittle, and the expanding gases would cause them to burst, spilling the valuable new wine and ruining the skins.

Spiritual Application:

Spiritually, the rigidity of old religious systems and traditions cannot accommodate the dynamic and transformative work of the new Gospel. Attempts to fit the grace of God and the new teachings into the old legalistic frameworks would lead to destruction and rejection.

The Need for Renewal:

Transformation:

For the "new wine" of God's grace to be effective and to mature, a "new wineskin" – a transformed consciousness, a renewal of spirit and attitude – is necessary.

Preservation:

By putting the new wine into new wineskins, both are preserved: the wine can ferment and mature, and the skins, being new and flexible, can withstand the process. This applies to individuals and the Church as they receive the new teachings and the Holy Spirit, allowing for growth and preservation.

Sower and the Soils

Matthew 13:3-8

^{3 "}And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;"

^{4 "}And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:"

^{5 "}Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth:"

^{6 "}And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away."

^{7 "}And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprung up, and choked them:"

^{8 "}But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold."

Matthew 13:18-23

^{18 "}Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower."

^{19 "}When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side."

^{20 "}But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;"

^{21 "}Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended."

^{22 "}He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful."

^{23 "}But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty."

Mark 4:3-8

^{3 "}Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow:"

^{4 "}And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up."

^{5 "}And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth of earth:"

^{6 "}But when the sun was up, it was scorched; and because it had no root, it withered away."

^{7 "}And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choked it, and it yielded no fruit."

⁸And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred.

Mark 4:14-20

^{14 "}The sower soweth the word."

^{15 "}And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts."

^{16 "}And these are they likewise which are sown on stony ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately receive it with gladness;"

^{17 "}And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended."

^{18 "}And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,"

^{19 "}And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful."

^{20 "}And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred."

Luke 8:5-8

^{5 "}A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it."

^{6 "}And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture."

^{7 "}And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it."

^{8 "}And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear."

Luke 8:11-15

^{11 "}Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God."

^{12 "}Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved."

^{13 "}They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away."

^{14 "}And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection."

^{15 "}But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience."

The Parable of the Sower is a story from the Bible, found in Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8, where a sower casts seeds, but they land on four different types of ground, representing people's hearts. The seed represents God's word, while the path, rocky ground, thorns, and good soil represent different kinds of hearts and their varying receptiveness to the word. The parable illustrates that while the word of God is given to all, its fruitfulness depends on the heart it falls into, with only some hearts fully receiving and producing a lasting harvest.

The Four Soils Explained:

Path Soil:

Represents people who hear the word but do not understand it, allowing the "evil one" (Satan) to immediately snatch it away, preventing it from taking root.

Rocky Soil:

Represents those who receive the word with initial joy but lack deep roots, causing them to fall away when trouble or persecution arises.

Thorny Soil:

Represents people who hear the word but are distracted by the "cares and riches of the world," which choke the word and render it unfruitful.

Good Soil:

Represents those who hear the word, accept it with understanding, persevere through difficulties, and bear fruit.

Key Takeaways:

The Sower: The sower can represent God or those who faithfully proclaim God's word.

The Seed: The seed symbolizes the word of the kingdom, or the gospel message of God's kingdom.

The Message: The parable encourages listeners to examine their own hearts and be prepared to receive the word of God in a way that produces genuine, lasting fruit.

Weeds

Matthew 13:24-30

^{24 "}Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field:"

^{25 "}But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way."

^{26 "}But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also."

^{27 "}So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares?"

^{28 "}He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up?"

^{29 "}But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them."

^{30 "}Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn."

Matthew 13:36-43

^{36 "}Then Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto us the parable of the tares of the field."

^{37 "}He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;"

^{38 "}The field is the world; the good seed are the children of the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;"

^{39 "}The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels."

^{40 "}As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world."

^{41 "}The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;"

^{42 "}And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth."

^{43 "}Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear."

The parable of the weeds, found in Matthew 13, describes a farmer who sows good seed in his field, but an enemy secretly sows weeds among it. When the weeds grow, the servants ask the farmer if they should pull them out, but he refuses, fearing they would uproot the wheat too. The parable's meaning is that the field is the world, the wheat is the sons of the kingdom (believers), the weeds are the sons of the evil one (unbelievers), and the harvest is the end of the age. At the end of the age, angels will gather the weeds to be burned in a fiery furnace, and the wheat will be gathered into God's barn.

The Story:

A Farmer's Field:

A farmer plants good seeds (wheat) in his field.

The Enemy's Mischief:

While the farmer and his workers are asleep, the devil (the enemy) comes and sows weeds among the wheat.

Servants' Concern:

As the crops grow, the workers notice the weeds and ask the farmer why there are weeds in his field.

The Farmer's Command:

The farmer explains that an enemy has done this and instructs his workers not to pull out the weeds immediately. He tells them to let both grow together until the harvest.

The Harvest:

At harvest time, the harvesters will first gather the weeds, tie them in bundles, and burn them. The wheat will then be gathered and stored in the farmer's barn.

The Meaning:

The Field: The world.

The Good Seed: The sons of the kingdom, those who believe in Jesus.

The Weeds: The sons of the evil one, or those who do not believe in Jesus.

The Enemy: The devil.

The Harvest: The end of the age, or judgment day.

The Harvesters: Angels.

Key Takeaways:

Coexistence of Good and Evil:

The world will always be a mixture of good and bad people.

Patience:

People are not to try and eradicate all evil from the world, as they may harm the good along with the bad.

Divine Judgment:

God will judge and separate the righteous from the wicked at the end of the age.

Destruction of the Wicked:

The wicked (weeds) will be cast into a fiery furnace, while the righteous (wheat) will enter God's kingdom.

Mustard Seed

Matthew 13:31-32

^{31 "}Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:"

^{32 "}Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof."

Mark 4:30-32

^{30 "}And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?"

^{31 "}It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:"

^{32 "}But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it."

Luke 13:18-19

^{18 "}Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it?"

^{19 "}It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it."

The parable of the mustard seed, found in Matthew 13:31-32, Mark 4:30-32, and Luke 13:19, describes the Kingdom of Heaven as starting from the smallest of seeds but growing into the largest of plants, providing shelter for birds. Its main message is that something seemingly small or insignificant can grow into something vast and powerful. This illustrates how the Kingdom of God, despite humble origins, will expand to become a grand and welcoming domain for all people.

The Parable's Story:

A Tiny Seed: A man plants the smallest of all seeds, a mustard seed, in his field.

Great Growth: The seed grows into the largest of all garden plants, becoming a great tree.

Welcoming Shelter: Birds come to nest in its branches, finding shade and shelter.

Meaning and Interpretations:

Humble Beginnings:

The parable emphasizes that the Kingdom of Heaven doesn't begin with grand expectations but from small, almost imperceptible beginnings.

Vast Expansion:

The growth of the seed into a large tree symbolizes the continually expanding and monumental nature of the Kingdom of God.

Inclusivity:

The birds nesting in the branches represent people from all nations and cultures finding shelter and a home in the Kingdom.

Potential of Faith:

On a personal level, it suggests that even a small amount of faith can grow into a strong and impactful faith, able to accomplish great things.

Yeast

Matthew 13:33

^{33 "}Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened."

Luke 13:20-21

^{20 "}And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God?"

^{21 "}It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened."

The parable of the yeast in Matthew 13:33 teaches that the Kingdom of Heaven starts small but grows and spreads throughout the world, transforming everything from within, similar to how yeast subtly leavens a whole batch of dough. The yeast represents the Gospel message or the Holy Spirit, which, when introduced to humanity (the dough), has an internal, hidden power to bring about pervasive, internal, and outward change.

Meaning of the Parable:

Internal Transformation:

The yeast works from within the dough, changing it from the inside out, just as the Kingdom of God works from within people's hearts to transform their lives and eventually entire cultures.

Hidden, Pervasive Influence:

Just as the yeast becomes indistinguishable from the dough once mixed, the Kingdom of God is not a visible, external entity in the world, but its effect is undeniable and spreads throughout the whole of humanity.

Growth from Small Beginnings:

A small amount of yeast is enough to permeate and leaven the entire batch of flour, illustrating that the Kingdom of Heaven, though it may begin with a small number of believers, is destined to grow and spread throughout the world.

The Power of the Gospel:

The parable highlights the immense, invisible power of the Gospel message to affect change. It is not a visible, external expansion like a mustard seed, but rather a deep, internal assimilation and transformation of hearts and lives.

Context:

This parable is one of several parables Jesus told to explain the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven. It is often paired with the parable of the mustard seed, which focuses on the external expansion and growth of the Christian community, while the yeast parable emphasizes the internal, pervasive nature of the Kingdom.

The "Yeast" in the Bible:

While leaven can sometimes symbolize sin (as in the warning against the "yeast of the Pharisees" in Matthew 16:5-12), in this specific parable from Matthew 13, it represents something positive and transformative—the power of the Kingdom of Heaven to change and impact the world.

Hidden Treasure

Matthew 13:44

^{44 "}Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field."

The parable of the hidden treasure, found in Matthew 13:44, tells of a man who, upon discovering a valuable treasure hidden in a field, joyfully sells all that he has to buy the field, thereby securing the treasure for himself. The parable teaches that the Kingdom of Heaven is an invaluable treasure worth surrendering all worldly possessions to obtain, highlighting its supreme worth and the joy found in committing fully to God's will and reign.

The Story of the Parable:

A man was working in a field and accidentally found a treasure hidden there.

Instead of taking it, he reburied it and then, with great joy, went and sold everything he owned.

He then used the proceeds to buy the entire field where he had found the treasure.

The Meaning and Interpretation:

The Treasure:

The hidden treasure is interpreted as the Kingdom of Heaven, a concept that encompasses God's rule, authority, and presence.

The Man:

The man represents people who discover the Kingdom of Heaven and recognize its immeasurable value.

The Joy:

The man's joy is a key aspect, signifying the immense excitement and delight that comes from finding the Kingdom and understanding its worth.

Selling All:

The act of selling everything symbolizes the willingness to give up all worldly possessions and priorities to follow Jesus and become part of His eternal Kingdom.

Key Lessons from the Parable:

Supreme Value:

The parable emphasizes that the Kingdom of Heaven is more precious than any earthly wealth, status, or possession.

Joyful Commitment:

Finding and securing the Kingdom is a cause for great joy, leading to a willing and joyful surrender of all that one has to embrace it.

Invaluable Exchange:

The parable illustrates the idea that the Kingdom is worth more than anything else, and individuals should be prepared to make any sacrifice necessary to obtain it.

Valuable Pearl

Matthew 13:45-46

^{45 "}Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls:"

^{46 "}Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it."

The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price, found in Matthew 13:45-46, is a short story where a merchant, after searching for fine pearls, discovers one of immense value and sells everything he owns to buy it. The parable teaches that the Kingdom of Heaven is supremely valuable, worth sacrificing all earthly possessions and pleasures to obtain. Interpretations include the pearl representing the church or God's grace, and the merchant representing either a person seeking salvation or Jesus himself, who sacrificed everything for humanity.

The Parable's Story:

The Search:

The parable begins with a merchant who is an expert at finding and trading pearls, actively seeking the best ones.

The Discovery:

He finds a single, extraordinary pearl that is far more valuable than any other he has encountered.

The Sacrifice:

To acquire this priceless pearl, he goes and sells everything he possesses.

Key Interpretations:

1. The Value of the Kingdom:

The primary interpretation is that the Kingdom of Heaven is so incredibly valuable that it is worth giving up absolutely everything else to gain.

2. The Merchant as a Seeker:

The merchant represents an individual who, upon discovering the incredible worth of God's Kingdom or salvation, is willing to sacrifice all worldly things for it.

3. The Merchant as Jesus:

An alternative view suggests the merchant is Jesus himself. In this interpretation, Jesus is the one who searches for and finds His people (the church or believers, represented by the pearl), and he gives up his life to purchase and redeem them.

4. Motivation of Joy:

Both this parable and the preceding one about the hidden treasure emphasize that the characters are moved by great joy at their discovery, and selling everything is not a regrettable loss but a joyful, necessary step to secure what they value most.

Net

Matthew 13:47-50

^{47 "}Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind:"

^{48 "}Which, when it was full, they drew to shore, and sat down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away."

^{49 "}So shall it be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and sever the wicked from among the just,"

^{50 "}And shall cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth."

The Parable of the Net, found in Matthew 13:47-52, describes the Kingdom of Heaven as a dragnet cast into the sea that catches all kinds of fish. At the end of the age, angels will sort the net's contents, putting the good fish into containers and discarding the bad ones into a blazing furnace, symbolizing the separation of the righteous from the wicked.

The Parable's Narrative:

Casting the Net: A net is cast into the sea and catches a large and varied collection of fish.
Pulling to Shore: When the net is full, it is pulled to the shore.
Sorting: The fishermen then sit down and separate the catch, placing the good fish into containers and throwing the bad fish away.

Interpretation and Meaning:

The Net: Represents the Kingdom of Heaven or the spread of God's reign on earth.

The Sea: Symbolizes humanity.

The Catch: The net gathers all kinds of people, both the righteous and the wicked.

The Sorting: This act symbolizes the final judgment at the end of the age, where God will separate the righteous from the wicked.

Good Fish: Those who have followed God's teachings and will enter heaven.

Bad Fish: The wicked who will be thrown into a fiery furnace, representing hell.

Key Takeaways:

Temporary Inclusion: The Kingdom of Heaven will include both good and bad people for a time.

Future Separation: A final judgment will occur, separating the righteous from the unrighteous.

Call to Perseverance: The parable encourages followers to be patient and continue to live righteously, trusting that God will ultimately judge.

Owner of a House

Matthew 13:52

^{52 "}Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old."

The Parable of the Houseowner compares a scribe who has become a disciple of Jesus to a householder (or master of a house) who draws from their treasure both "things new and old," symbolizing the disciple's ability to understand and teach from both the Old Testament and the New Testament teachings of the kingdom of heaven. This parable highlights the importance of a comprehensive understanding of God's word for sharing the message of the kingdom with others and serves as a call to be a faithful steward of divine revelation.

Context of the Parable:

Part of Matthew 13: This short parable concludes a series of parables spoken by Jesus, all of which address the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Jesus to his disciples:

After the parable of the wheat and the weeds, Jesus asks his disciples if they understood what he had been teaching. Their affirmative "Yes" prompts this final, brief teaching to them.

The Meaning of the Parable:

The Scribe/Disciple as Householder: A Jewish scribe was a scholar of the law, but here, the term refers to a disciple who has become an authoritative interpreter of God's word.

The Treasure: The "treasure" represents the accumulated wisdom and truths of the scriptures.

Things Old and New:

"Old": Refers to the established truths of the Old Testament.
"New": Refers to the new teachings of the Kingdom of Heaven revealed through Jesus.

The Purpose:

The parable emphasizes that the trained disciple, like a householder, will teach with wisdom, bringing forth both the foundational teachings of the old covenant and the new understanding from the new covenant for the edification of others.

Significance:

Stewardship of God's Revelation: It encourages believers to be faithful stewards of God's multifaceted plan, valuing both continuity and new revelations within His will.

Joyful Teaching: It portrays the disciple's role as one of teaching and sharing God's truth with joy and authority.

Call to Understanding: The parable serves as an invitation for all followers of Christ to embrace their role in spreading the message of the kingdom, understanding that faith requires deep engagement with both old and new teachings.

Lost Sheep

Matthew 18:12-14

^{12 "}How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?"

^{13 "}And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray."

^{14 "}Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish."

Luke 15:4-7

^{4 "}What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?"

^{5 "}And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing."

^{6 "}And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost."

^{7 "}I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance."

The parable of the lost sheep, found in Luke 15:3-7 and Matthew 18:12-14, describes a shepherd who leaves 99 sheep to find a single lost one, carrying it home on his shoulders with great joy and calling friends and neighbors to celebrate. The parable teaches that there is more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous people, illustrating God's love and care for individuals who have strayed.

The Parable:

The shepherd and the sheep: A man who has 100 sheep loses one. He leaves the remaining 99 in the wilderness and searches for the lost sheep until he finds it.

The celebration: Upon finding the sheep, he joyfully places it on his shoulders and carries it home. He then gathers his friends and neighbors to rejoice with him because his lost sheep has been found.

The spiritual parallel: Jesus tells the listeners that this is like the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents and turns back to God, more so than over 99 righteous individuals who have not strayed.

Key Themes and Meanings:

God's love for the lost: The parable demonstrates that God's love extends to every individual, even those who have strayed or are considered insignificant.

Repentance and restoration: It highlights the immense value God places on repentance and the restoration of those who have lost their way.

The importance of the individual: The parable emphasizes that God prioritizes the return of one lost person, much like a shepherd would prioritize finding a single lost sheep.

Joy in heaven: The parable concludes by emphasizing that God and the angels rejoice over a repentant sinner.

Unmerciful Servant

Matthew 18:23-34

^{23 "}Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants."

^{24 "}And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents."

^{25 "}But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made."

^{26 "}The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all."

^{27 "}Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt."

^{28 "}But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest."

^{29 "}And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all."

^{30 "}And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt."

^{31 "}So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done."

^{32 "}Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me:"

^{33 "}Shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee?"

^{34 "}And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him."

The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant, found in Matthew 18:21-35, teaches that just as God has forgiven us an immense debt, we are also called to forgive others from our hearts, lest we face divine judgment. In the story, a king forgives a massive debt owed by a servant, only for that servant to relentlessly demand repayment from a fellow servant who owed a tiny amount, then have the first servant punished severely by the king for his unforgiving attitude.

The Story:

1. An Enormous Debt is Forgiven: A servant owed his king 10,000 talents (an incredibly large sum of money) and, unable to pay, begged for mercy. Out of pity, the king forgave the entire debt.

2. An Unforgiving Act: The same servant then met a fellow servant who owed him a mere 100 denarii (a small amount). The first servant, despite being forgiven so much, refused to show mercy, seized the other servant, and had him thrown into prison until the debt was paid.

3. Consequences of Unforgiveness: When the king learned what the first servant had done, he was furious and called him "wicked". The king declared that because the servant refused to show mercy to his fellow servant, the king would not show mercy to him. He then handed the unforgiving servant over to tormentors.

The Meaning of the Parable:

The Heavenly Father's Forgiveness: The parable illustrates that God has forgiven us a debt of sin that is far beyond anything we could ever repay.

The Call to Forgive Others: Jesus teaches that we should extend the same grace and forgiveness to others that God has shown us.

The Cost of Unforgiveness: To withhold forgiveness from others is to reject the forgiveness we have received from God and can lead to negative spiritual consequences.

A Call for Heartfelt Forgiveness: The parable emphasizes that forgiveness must come from the heart, not just as a reluctant act.

Workers in the Vineyard

Matthew 20:1-16

20 "For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard."

^{2 "}And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard."

^{3 "}And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace,"

^{4 "}And said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way."

^{5 "}Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise."

^{6 "}And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle?"

^{7 "}They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive."

^{8 "}So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first."

^{9 "}And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny."

^{10 "}But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny."

^{11 "}And when they had received it, they murmured against the goodman of the house,"

^{12 "}Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day."

^{13 "}But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny?"

^{14 "}Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee."

^{15 "}Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?"

^{16 "}So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen."

The parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16) describes a landowner who hires laborers at different hours of the day for a fixed wage of one denarius. At the end of the day, he pays everyone the same amount, which angers the workers hired first, who feel it's unfair for those who worked less. The landowner explains his actions by saying he is not being unjust, as they agreed to the wage, and he can give his money as he pleases, questioning if their eye is evil because he is good. The parable illustrates God's boundless generosity and grace, showing that in the Kingdom of Heaven, there are no limits to God's blessings, regardless of one's service or duration.

The Story:

1. Hiring: A landowner goes out to the marketplace at different times of the day—early morning, third, sixth, ninth, and eleventh hours—to hire laborers for his vineyard.

2. Agreement: He agrees to pay the first group one denarius. For the others, he says he will pay them "what is right".

3. Payment: At the end of the day (sunset), the landowner instructs his steward to pay the workers, starting with the last-hired.

4. Surprise: Those hired at the eleventh hour (5 p.m.) receive a full denarius.

5. Complaint: The first laborers, who worked all day, receive the same denarius. They complain, saying it's unfair that the last-hired workers, who worked only one hour, received the same pay as them.

6. Landowner's Response: The landowner responds by saying, "My friend, I am not being unfair to you. Didn't you agree with me for a denarius?". He then says, "I wish to give to this last group the same as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do as I wish with what belongs to me?". He adds, "So the last will be first, and the first will be last".

The Meaning:

Grace vs. Works: The parable highlights God's grace, which is freely given and not earned. The first workers operate on a mindset of works, expecting fair compensation based on their effort.

God's Generosity: The landowner's actions show that God's blessings are not based on merit or performance but on His generous will. He gives what is not deserved.

Spiritual Envy: The parable challenges spiritual envy and resentment, which arises when people begrudge God's generosity to others.

Inclusion in God's Kingdom: The parable illustrates that everyone is valuable in God's Kingdom and that God invites everyone to be a part of His family, regardless of when they come to Him or how much they have done.

Challenge to Expectations: It shows that the Kingdom of Heaven "turns things upside down" by defying human expectations of justice and fairness.

Two Sons

Matthew 21:28-32

^{28 "}But what think ye? A certain man had two sons; and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my vineyard."

^{29 "}He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he repented, and went."

^{30 "}And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he answered and said, I go, sir: and went not."

^{31 "}Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you."

^{32 "}For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, that ye might believe him."

The parable of the two sons, told by Jesus in the Bible (Matthew 21:28-32), describes a father who asks two sons to work in his vineyard. The first son initially refuses but later changes his mind and goes to work, while the second son says he will go but never does. Jesus asks his audience which son did the father's will, and they correctly answer the first son. The parable highlights that true obedience is demonstrated by actions, not just by words, and points out that the tax collectors and prostitutes (who repented and acted) would enter God's kingdom before the hypocritical religious leaders (who professed faith but didn't act).

The Story:

The Father's Request: A vineyard owner asks his two sons to go and work in the vineyard.

First Son's Response: The first son says, "I will not". However, he later has a change of heart and goes to work.

Second Son's Response: The second son replies, "I will, sir". But he doesn't go to work in the vineyard.

The Question: Jesus then asks, "Which of the two did the will of his father?".

The Answer: His audience correctly replies, "The first".

The Meaning and Application:

Actions Over Words: The central message is that doing the will of God is shown by actions, not just by words.

Repentance and Action: The first son represents those who initially refused but then repented and obeyed.

Hypocrisy vs. Authenticity: The second son symbolizes those who profess to be obedient but whose actions prove otherwise, like the self-righteous religious leaders who Jesus criticized.

God's Kingdom: Jesus uses this to show that people who were considered "sinners" (like the tax collectors and prostitutes) would enter the kingdom of God before the religious leaders, who outwardly seemed religious but were spiritually dead.

Key Lesson:

The parable challenges listeners to examine their own hearts and actions, urging them to demonstrate genuine commitment to God's will through their deeds, not just their words.

Tenants

Matthew 21:33-44

^{33 "}Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country:"

^{34 "}And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of it."

^{35 "}And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one, and killed another, and stoned another."

^{36 "}Again, he sent other servants more than the first: and they did unto them likewise."

^{37 "}But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They will reverence my son."

^{38 "}But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance."

^{39 "}And they caught him, and cast him out of the vineyard, and slew him."

^{40 "}When the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what will he do unto those husbandmen?"

^{41 "}They say unto him, He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons."

^{42 "}Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?"

^{43 "}Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits thereof."

^{44 "}And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder."

Mark 12:1-11

12 "And he began to speak unto them by parables. A certain man planted a vineyard, and set an hedge about it, and digged a place for the winefat, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a far country."

^{2 "}And at the season he sent to the husbandmen a servant, that he might receive from the husbandmen of the fruit of the vineyard."

^{3 "}And they caught him, and beat him, and sent him away empty."

^{4 "}And again he sent unto them another servant; and at him they cast stones, and wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully handled."

^{5 "}And again he sent another; and him they killed, and many others; beating some, and killing some."

^{6 "}Having yet therefore one son, his wellbeloved, he sent him also last unto them, saying, They will reverence my son."

^{7 "}But those husbandmen said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance shall be ours."

^{8 "}And they took him, and killed him, and cast him out of the vineyard."

^{9 "}What shall therefore the lord of the vineyard do? he will come and destroy the husbandmen, and will give the vineyard unto others."

^{10 "}And have ye not read this scripture; The stone which the builders rejected is become the head of the corner:"

^{11 "}This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?"

Luke 20:9-18

^{9 "}Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time."

^{10 "}And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty."

^{11 "}And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty."

^{12 "}And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out."

^{13 "}Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him."

^{14 "}But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours."

^{15 "}So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them?"

^{16 "}He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, God forbid."

^{17 "}And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner?"

^{18 "}Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder."

The Parable of the Tenants, or Parable of the Wicked Husbandmen, is a story told by Jesus in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke, where a landowner leases a vineyard to tenants. When the landowner sends servants to collect his share of the harvest, the tenants beat and kill them. They then kill the landowner's son, believing they can take his inheritance. In the end, the landowner destroys the wicked tenants and gives the vineyard to others who will pay the rent. The parable is interpreted as a message to the religious leaders of the time, with the landowner representing God, the vineyard representing Israel, and the tenants representing the corrupt religious hierarchy who rejected God's messengers, including Jesus.

The Parable's Story

1. The Landowner's Preparation:

A landowner plants a vineyard, builds a wall, a winepress, and a watchtower, then leases it to tenants before leaving for a long time.

2. The First Servants:

When it's time to collect the fruit, the owner sends a servant to the tenants for his share. The tenants seize the servant, beat him, and send him away empty-handed.

3. More Servants and Abuse:

The owner sends more servants, but the tenants treat them similarly, beating, insulting, or even killing them.

4. The Son's Fate:

Finally, the owner sends his own beloved son, hoping the tenants will respect him. However, the tenants kill the son to claim the inheritance for themselves and throw him out of the vineyard.

5. The Owner's Judgment:

The landowner returns, destroys the wicked tenants, and rents the vineyard to new tenants who will give him his rightful share of the produce.

Interpretation of the Parable:

The Landowner: Represents God the Father.

The Vineyard: Represents Israel, God's people.

The Tenants: Represent the corrupt religious leadership of Jesus' day, such as the chief priests and Pharisees.

The Servants: Represent the prophets whom God sent to His people.

The Son: Represents Jesus, who was rejected and killed by the religious authorities.

The New Tenants: Represent the disciples and other followers of Jesus, who would become the new community of faith.

The Main Message:

The parable is a powerful condemnation of the religious leaders' rejection of God's authority and messengers. It highlights their refusal to bear spiritual fruit and their ultimately futile attempt to usurp God's kingdom. The parable also serves as a reminder that God's grace is offered to those who accept His son, Jesus, and bear the fruit of faith and obedience.

Wedding Banquet

Matthew 22:2-14

^{2 "}The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son,"

^{3 "}And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come."

^{4 "}Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage."

^{5 "}But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise:"

^{6 "}And the remnant took his servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them."

^{7 "}But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city."

^{8 "}Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy."

^{9 "}Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage."

^{10 "}So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests."

^{11 "}And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:"

^{12 "}And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless."

^{13 "}Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth."

^{14 "}For many are called, but few are chosen."

The parable of the wedding banquet, told by Jesus in Matthew 22:1-14, describes a king preparing a wedding feast for his son, but the invited guests refuse to attend, some even harming the king's messengers. The king then invites everyone—both good and bad—from the streets to fill the hall. However, one guest is found without a wedding garment and is cast out, demonstrating that while many are called to God's kingdom, only a few will be chosen. The parable illustrates that the Kingdom of Heaven is open to all who accept God's invitation and provision of salvation, represented by the wedding garment.

The Story:

1. The King's Invitation: A king holds a lavish wedding banquet for his son and sends out servants to invite guests.

2. Rejection and Violence: The invited guests refuse the invitation, prioritizing their businesses and daily lives. Some even seize, mistreat, and kill the king's servants.

3. Punishment and a New Invitation: Enraged, the king destroys the ungrateful city and sends his servants to invite anyone they can find on the streets to the wedding feast.

4. The Wedding Hall Fills: The banquet hall is filled with guests, both good and bad.

5. The Unworthy Guest: The king discovers a guest who is not wearing a proper wedding garment and orders him thrown into the darkness outside.

Key Symbols and Meanings:

The King: Represents God the Father.

The Son: Represents Jesus Christ, the Messiah.

The Wedding Banquet: Symbolizes the Kingdom of Heaven, a messianic banquet offered to all.

The Invited Guests: Represent the initial chosen people, such as the Jews, who rejected God's invitation to the Messiah.

The Servants: Represent God's prophets, who were sent to deliver the invitations.

The New Guests: The "good and bad" from the streets symbolize the Gentiles and others who were not initially considered worthy but are now extended the grace of the invitation.

The Wedding Garment: Represents the righteousness of Christ and the cleansing provided by God, which is necessary to enter His kingdom.

The Central Message:

The parable teaches that God's kingdom is a gift offered through grace, not by self-righteous works. While God invites everyone, it requires a genuine response and a transformation of the heart, symbolized by wearing the proper wedding garment provided by the King. Those who accept this invitation with humility and gratitude will share in God's feast, while those who reject it or try to enter on their own merits will be excluded.

Fig Tree

Matthew 24:32-35

^{32 "}Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:"

^{33 "}So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors."

^{34 "}Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled."

^{35 "}Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."

Mark 13:28-29

^{28 "}Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:"

^{29 "}So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors."

Luke 21:29-31

^{29 "}And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees;"

^{30 "}When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand."

^{31 "}So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand."

The parable of the fig tree, recorded in Luke 13:6-9, describes a landowner who threatens to cut down a barren fig tree in his vineyard after three years of no fruit. The gardener intercedes, asking for one more year to cultivate the tree, and the landowner agrees. The parable is a warning to repent, with the fig tree symbolizing the nation of Israel or individuals who are not producing "good fruit," and the gardener representing Jesus, who nurtures spiritual growth to bring about repentance and bearing of fruit.

The Parable's Narrative:

The Problem:

A man owns a fig tree in his vineyard but finds no fruit on it for three years.

The Decision:

The landowner wants to cut it down because it's using up valuable resources.

The Plea:

The gardener (or keeper of the vineyard) asks for one more year to care for the tree, suggesting he will dig around it and fertilize it.

The Hope:

The gardener hopes that if the tree bears fruit in the next year, it can be spared, but if not, then it will be cut down.

Symbolic Meaning:

The Lord/Landowner: Represents God, who expects spiritual fruit and justly judges unfruitful subjects.

The Gardener: Represents Jesus, who intercedes for people, provides spiritual nourishment, and works to bring about repentance and growth.

The Fig Tree: Can symbolize the nation of Israel or individual believers who are expected to produce good works and exhibit true faith.

The Vineyard: Can represent the community of God's people or the world.

The Fruit: Represents good actions, spiritual maturity, and a transformed life that glorifies God.

Key Takeaway:

The parable is a powerful call to recognize the signs of the times and to repent, or risk spiritual destruction. It emphasizes God's immense patience and mercy through Jesus's intercession, giving people a chance to produce spiritual "fruit" through care and cultivation before a final reckoning.

Faithful and Wise Servant

Matthew 24:45-51

⁴⁵Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season?

⁴⁶Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

⁴⁷Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.

⁴⁸But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming;

⁴⁹And shall begin to smite his fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken;

⁵⁰The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of,

⁵¹And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Luke 12:42-48

⁴²And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?

⁴³Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

⁴⁴Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.

⁴⁵But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken;

⁴⁶The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.

⁴⁷And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.

⁴⁸But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.

The Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant is a teaching by Jesus found in Matthew 24:45-51 and Luke 12:42-48, which emphasizes the importance of readiness for His return. Jesus asks who the faithful steward is whom a master would place in charge of his household to provide food at the right time. The servant who is found diligently carrying out his duties when the master returns will be blessed and rewarded. In contrast, an evil servant, who mistakenly believes his master is delayed, will be severely punished for his wicked behavior and neglect. The parable concludes with the teaching that to whom much is given, much will be required, highlighting the need for all to be prepared for Jesus' unexpected arrival.

Parable Summary:

The Lord's Departure: A master leaves his household in the care of a trusted servant.

The Master's Return: The master eventually returns, but at an unexpected time.

The Faithful Servant: If the master finds the servant faithfully and wisely providing for the household, he will be blessed and promoted.

The Unfaithful Servant: If the servant, believing the master is delayed, begins to mistreat others, indulge in sin, and neglect his duties, he will face severe punishment.

The Lesson: The parable teaches that everyone must remain watchful, be prepared, and act responsibly, because Jesus will return at an unpredictable time.

Key Takeaways:

Watchfulness: Believers should always be prepared for Jesus' return, acting as if it could happen at any moment.

Responsibility: Those who have been given much (knowledge, resources, gifts) will be held accountable for how they use them.

Diligence: Faithful service means actively working for the kingdom and caring for others, not succumbing to laziness or corruption.

Consequences: There are serious consequences for those who neglect their duties and reject God's will, leading to exclusion from the kingdom.

Ten Virgins

Matthew 25:1-13

25 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

²And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.

³They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:

⁴But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.

⁵While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.

⁶And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.

⁷Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.

⁸And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.

⁹But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.

¹⁰And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.

¹¹Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.

¹²But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

¹³Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

The parable of the ten virgins, also known as the parable of the wise and foolish virgins, is a story from Matthew 25:1-13 in the New Testament where ten virgins—five wise and five foolish—await a bridegroom's arrival for a wedding. All eventually fall asleep. When the bridegroom comes at midnight, the foolish virgins are unprepared because their lamps have no oil, which symbolizes the Holy Spirit or spiritual preparedness. They are unable to enter the wedding banquet, and the wise virgins are admitted. The parable teaches the importance of constant spiritual readiness for the return of Christ, because the hour is unknown, and true faith is a personal and indispensable commitment.

Key Elements and Their Meanings:

The ten virgins: Represent Christians or members of the church, all expecting the bridegroom.

The wise virgins: Symbolize those who are truly prepared for Christ's return, possessing sufficient spiritual reserves (oil).

The foolish virgins: Represent those who are only nominal Christians, lacking genuine faith and the necessary spiritual depth to stand before Christ when he arrives.

The lamps: Represent the word of God or the outward show of faith.

The oil: A crucial symbol, representing the Holy Spirit, true faith, and spiritual preparedness, which cannot be borrowed or bought from others.

The bridegroom: Christ.

The midnight cry: Symbolizes the unexpected and sudden announcement of Christ's second coming.

The wedding banquet: Represents the joy and eternal life of the kingdom.

The shut door: Signifies exclusion from the kingdom for those who were not spiritually ready.

The Message of the Parable:

Be Prepared: The central message is to be vigilant and prepared for Christ's return, which could happen at any moment.

Spiritual Readiness is Personal: The foolish virgins tried to obtain oil from the wise, but it was a personal commitment and relationship with the Holy Spirit that was required.

Authentic Faith is Necessary: Simply calling Jesus "Lord" or being a part of the community is not enough; a genuine, active faith demonstrated through actions and an inner transformation is what truly matters.

The Cost of Discipleship: True discipleship requires a deep and unwavering commitment to Christ, symbolized by the wise virgins' foresight in providing extra oil.

It is Too Late for Delay: When the bridegroom appears, it is too late to begin preparing. Spiritual preparedness must be a lifelong journey, not a last-minute effort.

Bags of Gold (minas)

Matthew 25:14-30

¹⁴For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

¹⁵And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.

¹⁶Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.

¹⁷And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.

¹⁸But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.

¹⁹After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.

²⁰And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.

²¹His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

²²He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.

²³His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

²⁴Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed:

²⁵And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.

²⁶His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:

²⁷Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.

²⁸Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.

²⁹For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.

³⁰And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Luke 19:12-27

¹²He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.

¹³And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.

¹⁴But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.

¹⁵And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.

¹⁶Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.

¹⁷And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.

¹⁸And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.

¹⁹And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.

²⁰And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin:

²¹For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.

²²And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow:

²³Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?

²⁴And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.

²⁵(And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.)

²⁶For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.

²⁷But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.

The parable of the bags of gold, or Parable of the Talents (found in Matthew 25:14-30), teaches that God entrusts believers with "talents" (gifts, abilities, resources) and expects them to use and develop these gifts for His kingdom while He is away. The master rewards the servants who wisely invest and multiply their talents, while the servant who buries his talent out of fear is condemned and punished for his idleness and lack of faith. The parable emphasizes stewardship, responsibility, and faithfulness in the face of God's anticipated return.

The Story:

1. Entrustment:

A wealthy landowner, about to go on a long journey, entrusts his property to three servants.

He gives the first servant five "talents" (large bags of gold or silver).
He gives the second servant two talents.
He gives the third servant one talent, according to their individual abilities.

2. Investment and Growth:

While the master is away, the first two servants actively invest and use the talents, making more.

The first servant doubles his five talents to ten.
The second servant doubles his two talents to four.

3. Neglect and Fear:

The third servant is afraid of his master.

Instead of investing his single talent, he takes it and buries it in the ground.

4. The Master's Return:

Upon his return, the master calls his servants to account for the talents he entrusted to them.

The first two servants present their doubled talents and are praised as "good and faithful servants," receiving more responsibility.
The third servant, however, returns the single talent, admitting he hid it.

5. Punishment and Reward:

The master is displeased with the third servant's fear and laziness.

He declares, "You wicked, lazy servant!" and takes the single talent from him.
He gives this talent to the servant who had ten talents, stating, "For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance".
The unworthy servant is cast into "outer darkness".

Key Interpretations:

God and Humanity:

The master represents God, the servants represent believers, and the talents represent the various spiritual gifts, abilities, and resources God has given to each person.

Stewardship:

The central theme is stewardship: believers are not owners of their talents but administrators responsible for using them wisely to bring glory to God and build His kingdom.

Faithfulness Over Fear:

The parable contrasts faithful action with fearful inaction. The first two servants understood their purpose, while the third servant's fear led to paralysis and unfaithfulness.

Spiritual Urgency:

The story serves as a call to live with spiritual urgency, using all that God has given us in His service, rather than hoarding or neglecting these gifts.

Consequences of Neglect:

The punishment of the third servant underscores the seriousness of wasting God's gifts, reminding believers that spiritual laziness and indifference will have severe consequences.

Sheep and Goats

Matthew 25:31-46

³¹When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory:

³²And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats:

³³And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.

³⁴Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

³⁵For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

³⁶Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

³⁷Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

³⁸When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

³⁹Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

⁴⁰And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

⁴¹Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:

⁴²For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink:

⁴³I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.

⁴⁴Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?

⁴⁵Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.

⁴⁶And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

The parable of the sheep and the goats describes the final judgment where Jesus, like a shepherd, separates people into two groups: the "sheep," who are the righteous and inherit the kingdom, and the "goats," who are the wicked and face punishment. The separation is based on acts of mercy shown to others—feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and caring for the sick and imprisoned—as these actions are interpreted as acts of love towards Jesus himself. The parable teaches that genuine faith is demonstrated through compassionate action towards those in need, determining one's eternal destiny.

The Parable in Matthew 25:31-46:

The Separation:

Jesus, as the King, gathers all nations and separates them, placing the "sheep" on his right hand and the "goats" on his left hand.

The Sheep:

The sheep, who are the blessed and righteous, inherit a kingdom prepared for them. They are told, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink".

The Goats:

The goats, who are the cursed and wicked, are told to "Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels".

The Meaning and Significance:

Actions of Mercy:

The core lesson is that actions of compassion towards others are seen as acts of love and service to Christ.

Good Deeds as Evidence of Faith:

While not suggesting salvation by works alone, the parable highlights that true faith is expressed through doing good deeds and showing mercy to the least among people.

Eternal Consequences:

The parable emphasizes the stark difference between the eternal destinies of the righteous and the wicked, depending on their actions.

Growing Seed

Mark 4:26-29

²⁶And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;

²⁷And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.

²⁸For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.

²⁹But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.

The Parable of the Growing Seed describes the mysterious, automatic, and mysterious growth of God's Kingdom from a seed into a mature harvest, emphasizing that God is the source of growth, not the farmer. After the seed of the Kingdom of God is sown, it sprouts, grows, and produces a full crop over time, independent of the sower's efforts, to eventually be harvested when it is ripe.

The Story:

A man casts seed on the soil.
He sleeps and rises, while the seed sprouts and grows, though he doesn't know how.
The seed goes through stages: first the blade, then the head, and finally the mature grain in the head.
When the crop is ready, the man immediately harvests it with a sickle.

Key Aspects of the Parable:

God's Independent Power:

The parable highlights the automatic and mysterious way God's Word grows in people's hearts.

Human Responsibility:

Believers are responsible for "sowing" the seed of God's Word through various actions, but God is in control of its growth.

Patience:

It encourages patience with spiritual growth, recognizing that it happens according to God's timing.

Trust:

The parable reminds Christians to trust in God's sovereign work and divine plan, even when they don't understand it.

The Harvest:

The ultimate fulfillment of God's Kingdom is inevitable and will be enjoyed by those who have been faithful in spreading the seed.

The Meaning:

The seed represents God's Word or the Kingdom of God itself. The man represents God. The growth of the seed signifies the mysterious and powerful growth of God's work in the world, which occurs by God's own power and according to His divine timing. The harvest is the ultimate realization of the Kingdom of God.

Watchful Servants

Mark 13:35-37

³⁵Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning:

³⁶Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.

³⁷And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.

Luke 12:35-40

³⁵Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning;

³⁶And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.

³⁷Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.

³⁸And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.

³⁹And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.

⁴⁰Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.

The parable of the watchful servants, found in Luke 12:35-38, describes servants waiting for their master's return from a wedding feast. While dressed and with lamps lit, they remain ready to open the door at any moment, even at midnight. The master's reward for finding them awake is unexpected: he will dress to serve them, inviting them to sit and wait on them at the table. The core message is to be always ready for Christ's unexpected second coming through constant vigilance, faithfulness, and spiritual preparedness.

Key Elements of the Parable:

The Master's Return:

The master is away, returning from a wedding feast, and his servants are waiting for his arrival.

The Servants' Preparation:

The servants are to be dressed for service, with their lamps burning, symbolizing readiness and constant vigilance.

The Importance of Readiness:

The servants are blessed if the master finds them awake and ready when he arrives, no matter the hour.

The Master's Reward:

Instead of punishing the waiting servants, the master reverses traditional roles by dressing to serve them, making them sit, and having him wait on them.

Meaning and Message:

Be Ready:

The primary lesson is to live in a state of readiness and expectation for the return of Christ.

Vigilance:

The lit lamps represent continuous spiritual awareness and preparedness.

Unpredictable Return:

The parable emphasizes that Jesus will come again at an unexpected time, just as the master returns at an unannounced hour.

Faithful Service:

Those who are faithful and watchful will be rewarded by Christ, who will serve them when he returns.

Spiritual Preparation:

This includes being spiritually alert, caring for one's relationship with Jesus, and living a life pleasing to God.

Moneylender

Luke 7:41-43

⁴¹There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty.

⁴²And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most?

⁴³Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.

The parable of the money lender, told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke (7:41-50), illustrates the relationship between God's forgiveness and human love for God, where the debtor forgiven a greater debt loves the lender more. A moneylender forgives two debtors, one who owes a large sum (500 denarii) and another a smaller one (50 denarii), and Jesus uses this to show a sinful woman who showed great love to him, having been forgiven many sins, loved him more than Simon the Pharisee, who had shown little love after Jesus entered his house.

The Story (Luke 7:41-50):

The Scene:

Jesus is dining at the house of Simon the Pharisee, who questions why Jesus is allowing a known sinner to touch him.

The Parable:

Jesus says a moneylender had two debtors, one who owed 500 denarii and another who owed 50.

The Forgiveness:

Neither debtor could pay, so the moneylender graciously forgave both debts.

The Question:

Jesus asks Simon, "Now which of them will love him more?".

Simon's Answer:

Simon correctly replies that it would be the one forgiven the greater debt.

Jesus' Application:

Jesus then turns to the sinful woman, contrasting her extravagant display of love—washing his feet with her tears, wiping them with her hair, and anointing them with perfume—with Simon's lack of hospitality.

The Conclusion:

Jesus tells the woman that her many sins are forgiven because she has shown such great love.

Meaning and Significance:

Forgiveness and Love:

The parable shows that the degree of love someone shows is often proportional to the amount of forgiveness they have received.

Awareness of Sin:

The woman's extravagant display of love stems from her deep awareness of how many sins have been forgiven, whereas Simon, the Pharisee, who felt he had little to be forgiven for, showed little love or gratitude.

Spiritual Application:

The parable serves as a message that those who recognize the magnitude of their sin and God's immense grace and forgiveness will be moved to a deeper, more profound love and devotion to God.

Good Samaritan

Luke 10:30-37

³⁰And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

³¹And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

³²And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.

³³But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,

³⁴And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

³⁵And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

³⁶Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?

³⁷And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) tells of a man robbed and beaten who is passed by by a priest and a Levite, but is helped by a Samaritan—a member of a despised ethnic group—who tends to his wounds and pays for his care at an inn. The parable teaches that one's "neighbor" is anyone in need, regardless of social, ethnic, or religious background, and demonstrates that true love requires acting with empathy and compassion, especially toward those who are different from us or who we might consider enemies.

The Story:

1. A lawyer asks Jesus to define "neighbor":

Jesus's story is told in response to a lawyer's question, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?". Jesus directs the lawyer to the law, which says to love God and love your neighbor as yourself.

2. A man is robbed and left for dead:

A man traveling from Jerusalem to Jericho is ambushed by robbers, stripped of his clothes, beaten, and left half-dead by the side of the road.

3. The priest and Levite pass by:

A priest and then a Levite, both respected religious men, see the wounded man but walk past him on the other side.

4. A Samaritan stops to help:

A despised Samaritan sees the man and is moved with compassion.

5. The Samaritan provides aid:

He tends to the man's wounds, bandages them, puts him on his own donkey, takes him to an inn, and cares for him, even paying for his stay with two denarii.

6. Jesus asks the lawyer who was the neighbor:

Jesus then asks the lawyer which of the three—the priest, the Levite, or the Samaritan—acted as a neighbor to the man who fell into the robbers' hands.

7. The lawyer correctly identifies the Samaritan:

The lawyer correctly replies, "The one who had mercy on him". Jesus then tells him, "Go and do likewise".

Key Lessons:

Broadening the definition of "neighbor":

The parable teaches that a neighbor is anyone in need of help, breaking down ethnic and social barriers by highlighting a Samaritan's compassion for a Jew.

Active Compassion over Ritual Purity:

It contrasts the self-righteousness and spiritual coldness of the religious men with the genuine compassion of the Samaritan, who prioritized active love and tangible care over maintaining ritual purity or status.

Loving enemies:

The story challenges the prevailing view that one should only love their own people or those who are similar to them. It calls for unconditional love and kindness, even for enemies or those who are despised.

Acting on love:

The parable moves beyond mere acknowledgment of the "love your neighbor" commandment to emphasize the importance of putting that love into action, even when it is inconvenient or risky.

Friend in Need

Luke 11:5-8

⁵And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves;

⁶For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him?

⁷And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.

⁸I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.

The parable of the friend in need, found in Luke 11:5–8, tells of a man who goes to a neighbor's house at midnight to ask for three loaves of bread for a traveling guest. Though the neighbor initially refuses due to his family being asleep, he eventually gives the bread because of the man's persistent and "shameless audacity" in continuing to ask. The parable teaches that believers should pray with the same boldness and persistence, trusting that a loving God, unlike the reluctant neighbor, will readily answer and provide for their needs.

The Story:

1. The Request:

A man has a guest arrive at his house and, having no food to offer, goes to a neighbor's house at midnight to ask for bread.

2. The Reluctance:

The neighbor is in bed and initially unwilling to get up and help.

3. Persistent Knocking:

The man continues to knock and make his request, showing "shameless audacity" or "importunity".

4. The Outcome:

The neighbor finally gets up and gives the man the bread, not out of friendship, but because he can no longer stand the persistent knocking.

The Meaning:

The parable uses this earthly scenario to illustrate a spiritual truth about prayer.

God's Eagerness:

If a reluctant neighbor will eventually give due to persistence, then a loving God, who is not sleeping and is eager to give good gifts, will more readily answer prayers for His people.

Shameless Audacity in Prayer:

It encourages believers to approach God with a confident boldness, rather than apologizing for asking. God can handle such persistence, and it is His delight when His people lay hold of His highest willingness.

Persistence in Prayer:

The parable emphasizes "importunity," or continuous, persistent prayer. The repeated action of asking, seeking, and knocking in the following verses (Luke 11:9-10) reinforces the idea of unceasing prayer.

God's Good Gifts:

The ultimate point, as explained in the subsequent verses, is that God gives the best gift, which is the Holy Spirit, to those who ask Him.

Rich Fool

Luke 12:16-21

¹⁶And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:

¹⁷And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?

¹⁸And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.

¹⁹And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.

²⁰But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?

²¹So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.

The parable of the rich fool, found in Luke 12:13-21, warns against greed and materialism, emphasizing that true life is found in a relationship with God, not in possessions. A wealthy farmer, after a record harvest, plans to hoard his crops in larger barns for a life of pleasure. God calls him a "fool" because he focused on temporary, material wealth, failed to acknowledge God, and made no provision for his own soul's eternity, leading to his unexpected death that very night. The parable teaches that life isn't defined by possessions, and true security and happiness are found in being "rich toward God" through generosity and a deeper spiritual connection.

The Story:

1. A Generous Harvest:

A rich farmer's land produced an unusually abundant crop.

2. Greedy Planning:

Overwhelmed by his surplus, he decided to tear down his old barns and build bigger ones to store all his goods.

3. Self-Centered Plans:

He planned to relax, eat, drink, and be merry, enjoying his wealth for many years.

4. God's Judgment:

However, God called him a fool and demanded his life that very night, making his selfish preparations worthless.

Key Lessons:

Life is Not About Possessions:

The central message is that a person's life does not consist of the abundance of their possessions, and focusing solely on wealth leads to folly.

Guard Against Greed:

The parable serves as a warning against all forms of covetousness, a subtle desire for more, which can distort a person's perspective and priorities.

The Temporality of Wealth:

Material wealth and possessions are temporary and cannot be taken into the afterlife.

Focus on the Eternal:

Instead of hoarding earthly treasures, one should seek to be "rich toward God," focusing on spiritual riches, such as a relationship with God, generosity, and the well-being of others.

Unexpected Death:

The man's sudden death highlights the unpredictability of life and the folly of making long-term plans based solely on earthly security, especially when one has neglected God and their spiritual life.

Unfruitful Figtree

Luke 13:6-9

⁶He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.

⁷Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?

⁸And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:

⁹And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.

The Parable of the Unfruitful Fig Tree (Luke 13:6-9) describes a fig tree that has not produced fruit for three years, prompting the owner to want to cut it down. However, the gardener asks for one more year to tend it with care and fertilizer, promising to cut it down if it still bears no fruit. The parable symbolizes God's patience, mercy, and call to repentance, with the fig tree representing the nation of Israel (or any individual) that is not bearing spiritual fruit. It serves as a warning that God's mercy has limits and that judgment will follow continued spiritual barrenness, emphasizing the need for genuine conversion and a life of good works.

The Story:

A landowner planted a fig tree in his vineyard but found it unproductive after three years.
He wanted to have it cut down.
The gardener (Jesus) interceded, asking for one more year to cultivate the tree with special attention.
He promised that if it did not produce fruit in the following year, it would be cut down.

Key Meanings and Lessons:

God's Patience and Mercy: The gardener's request for one more year represents God's long-suffering and desire to give people time to repent and bear fruit.

The Call to Repentance: The parable is a powerful call for repentance, urging people to change their hearts and lives to produce "spiritual fruit" rather than just appearing religious.

The Spiritual Condition of Israel: The fig tree can be interpreted as a metaphor for the nation of Israel, which had failed to respond to God's grace and the messages of His prophets and John the Baptist.

Hypocrisy and False Appearances: Jesus's cursing of the fig tree (in Mark and Matthew) was an act of judgment against hypocrisy. The tree had leaves but no fruit, symbolizing those who have the outward appearance of faith but lack its reality.

A Limited Time for Grace: The parable carries a serious warning that God's patience is not limitless. There is a time limit for grace, and continued spiritual barrenness will lead to judgment.

The Need for Genuine Faith: Bearing fruit signifies a life of good works and a genuine, lived faith that produces goodness in the world.

Lowest Seat at the Feast

Luke 14:7-14

⁷And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them.

⁸When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;

⁹And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.

¹⁰But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.

¹¹For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

¹²Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.

¹³But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:

¹⁴And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.

The Parable of the Lowest Seat teaches the virtue of humility and the dangers of pride by using the example of guests at a feast. Jesus advises taking the lowest seat at a banquet so the host, recognizing your humility, might invite you to a more honorable position, resulting in praise rather than shame. The parable illustrates that those who exalt themselves will be humbled, while those who humble themselves will be exalted, applying this principle to one's approach to God's kingdom and life's opportunities.

The Story:

Jesus, observing guests at a Pharisee's house, sees them choosing the best seats.

He tells a parable to the guests about what to do at a banquet.

He advises not to seek a seat of honor, as the host might ask you to move to a lower one in front of everyone, causing shame.

Instead, he suggests taking the lowest seat.

This way, the host may come and say, "Friend, move up to a higher place," which would bring honor to you before all the guests.

The Meaning & Lessons:

Humility vs. Pride: The core message is that pride leads to humiliation, while humility leads to exaltation.

Kingdom of God: Jesus connects this to the Kingdom of God, suggesting that we should not strive for worldly status or recognition.

God's Judgment: God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble, a principle demonstrated by the saying, "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted".

A Practical Guideline for Life: The parable serves as a guideline for how to approach situations in life, encouraging a selfless and humble attitude rather than self-importance.

Being Content: It also promotes a sense of contentment with one's position, rather than a constant struggle for higher status.

Great Banquet

Luke 14:16-24

¹⁶Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many:

¹⁷And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready.

¹⁸And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.

¹⁹And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused.

²⁰And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.

²¹So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.

²²And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room.

²³And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.

²⁴For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.

The parable of the Great Banquet, found in Luke 14, teaches about God's invitation to His kingdom, symbolized by a feast, and the human tendency to reject this invitation due to attachment to worldly things. Initially, the invited guests—representing the religious establishment—decline the host's (God's) call with excuses, leading the host to invite the marginalized, poor, and even Gentiles to fill the banquet. The parable's message is that God desires a full banquet for all, and individuals must prioritize His call over earthly possessions and self-exaltation to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

Summary of the Parable (Luke 14:15-24):

1. The Master and the Feast:

A master prepares a great banquet and sends his servant to invite guests.

2. The Rejected Invitation:

The invited guests decline the invitation with various excuses, such as buying a field, needing to try their oxen, or having recently married.

3. A Wider Invitation:

The master instructs his servant to invite the poor, crippled, blind, and lame.

4. Still Room:

When there is still room, the servant is told to go out to the roads and country lanes, compelling people to come so the banquet hall can be filled.

Meaning and Symbolism:

The Master (Host): Represents God.

The Great Banquet: Symbolizes the Kingdom of God, salvation, and heaven.

The Invited Guests: Represent the religious leaders and elite, who were offered God's invitation first but rejected it.

The Excuses: The excuses ("I bought a field," "five yoke of oxen") symbolize attachment to worldly possessions, business, and earthly priorities that prevent people from accepting God's call.

The Poor, Lame, Blind, and Crippled: Represent the outcasts and marginalized people, both in the immediate community and later the Gentiles, who were receptive to God's call.

Key Lessons:

Prioritize God's Kingdom: The parable warns against prioritizing earthly possessions and interests over God's invitation to His Kingdom.

God's Universal Invitation: God's invitation is not exclusive; He desires that everyone, regardless of social status or background, be a part of His Kingdom.

Consequences of Rejection: Those who refuse God's invitation will be excluded from the banquet, while those who accept, particularly the "uninvited," will be included.

Humility and Gratitude: The parable also speaks to the importance of humility in seeking the lowest place, which leads to exaltation, and gratitude for God's grace in inviting the unworthy.

Cost of Discipleship

Luke 14:28-33

²⁸For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it?

²⁹Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him,

³⁰Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.

³¹Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand?

³²Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace.

³³So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

The Parable of the Cost of Discipleship in Luke 14:25-35 illustrates that following Jesus requires complete, costly commitment, not a superficial one. Through the parables of the tower builder and the king going to war, Jesus emphasizes that potential followers must first "count the cost," meaning they must calculate the immense sacrifices involved, such as giving up family, possessions, and personal desires, before beginning the journey. True discipleship means prioritizing Jesus above all else, accepting a life of hardship, and renouncing all to follow Him fully.

Key Elements of the Parable:

Counting the Cost

The Tower Builder (Luke 14:28-30): Jesus asks, "Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?". This illustrates that serious commitments, like discipleship, require careful planning and an honest assessment of the sacrifices involved.
The King Going to War (Luke 14:31-32): Another king asks if he can face an enemy army with his current forces. Jesus uses this to show that people must also "count the cost" of discipleship before beginning the journey. The focus is on the total commitment and the potential for failure if one is not prepared.

Demands of Discipleship

Love God Above All (Luke 14:26): Jesus states that anyone who comes to Him and "does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, cannot be My disciple". This "hatred" is not literal hate but means loving God above everyone and everything else in one's life.
Bearing Your Own Cross (Luke 14:27): Disciples must "take up their cross and follow me". This represents accepting a life of daily self-denial, willingness to suffer reproach for Jesus' sake, and dying to selfish desires.
Renouncing Possessions (Luke 14:33): The concluding summary reinforces the point: "None of you can be my disciple who does not give up all his own possessions". This is an all-or-nothing commitment, requiring total devotion of one's entire life and resources to Jesus.

The Message:

Genuine Commitment: Jesus is calling for wholehearted commitment, not a superficial or cheap form of discipleship.

Total Allegiance:

Following Jesus means placing His will, His kingdom, and His life above one's own interests, family ties, and worldly possessions.

Readiness for Sacrifice:

True discipleship involves being prepared to face hardship, opposition, and suffering for the sake of Christ.

Lost Coin

Luke 15:8-10

⁸Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?

⁹And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.

¹⁰Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

The parable of the lost coin, found in Luke 15:8-10, describes a woman who loses one of ten valuable silver coins and diligently searches for it by lighting a lamp, sweeping her house, and searching until it is found. The parable's main point is to show God's immense value and love for every individual, and how there is great rejoicing in heaven over every sinner who repents and is "found".

The Parable's Story:

A woman has ten valuable silver coins, and she loses one.

She lights a lamp, sweeps her house, and searches carefully until she finds the lost coin.

When she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors to rejoice with her.

Jesus concludes by saying that, in the same way, there is joy in the presence of God's angels over one sinner who repents.

Symbolism and Meaning:

The Woman:

Represents God, or sometimes the Holy Spirit or the Church, who searches for the lost.

The Coin:

Represents a person, a sinner, or someone who has strayed from God.

The Search:

Symbolizes God's diligent, active, and unrelenting search for those who are lost in sin.

The Joy of Finding:

This signifies the great celebration in heaven when a sinner turns back to God.

Context:

The parable was spoken in response to the religious leaders who criticized Jesus for associating with sinners, emphasizing that God desires the salvation of all people and rejoices when they repent.

Key Lessons:

God's Personal Love: God cares for each person individually, focusing on them as if they were the only one in the world.

Valuable to God: Every person is precious to God, and He never gives up on them.

Rejoicing Over a Sinner: The return of even one lost person is a cause for great celebration among the angels.

Lost (prodigal) Son

Luke 15:11-32

¹¹And he said, A certain man had two sons:

¹²And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.

¹³And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.

¹⁴And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

¹⁵And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.

¹⁶And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.

¹⁷And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!

¹⁸I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,

¹⁹And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.

²⁰And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.

²¹And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.

²²But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:

²³And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:

²⁴For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.

²⁵Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.

²⁶And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.

²⁷And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.

²⁸And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.

²⁹And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:

³⁰But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.

³¹And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.

³²It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.

The parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) tells of a younger son who demands and squanders his inheritance, becoming destitute, and then is joyfully welcomed home by his father upon his return. His older brother, who remained loyal, becomes angry at the celebration. The parable illustrates God's unconditional love, forgiveness, and the importance of celebrating the redemption of those who have strayed, even while also highlighting the pride and resentment that can prevent one from receiving God's grace.

The Story:

1. The Younger Son's Departure:

A man has two sons. The younger son asks for his inheritance, which is an insult in ancient culture, implying he wishes his father were dead. He takes his share and squanders it on a life of reckless living.

2. The Younger Son's Despair:

The younger son becomes completely destitute and ends up in a humiliating situation, even considering eating the same food as pigs. He realizes his desperate state and resolves to return to his father, intending to ask for a job as a hired servant.

3. The Father's Welcome:

The father sees his son returning from a distance, runs to him, embraces him, and kisses him. He calls for the best robes, a ring, and sandals to be given to his son and orders a great celebration for him.

4. The Older Son's Resentment:

The older, faithful son returns from work and hears about the party. He becomes angry, feeling that his loyalty has gone unrewarded, and refuses to go in.

5. The Father's Response to the Older Son:

The father goes out to the older son and gently explains that the younger brother was "lost" but is now "found," and it is right to celebrate his return.

Themes and Meaning:

God's Unconditional Love and Forgiveness:

The father symbolizes God, who is always ready to welcome back sinners who repent and return to Him. His compassion is a model of the love and mercy God shows to all.

Redemption is Always Possible:

The parable shows that no one is beyond redemption, and a heart of true sorrow and a desire to change can lead to reconciliation and a new life.

The Dangers of Pride and Resentment:

The older brother represents those who may be outwardly obedient but harbor bitterness, jealousy, and a lack of compassion. His anger shows a selfish spirit that contrasts with the father's self-giving love.

The Importance of Compassion:

The story calls for readers to identify with the father's compassion and to extend grace and mercy to others, just as God extends it to us.

Shrewd Manager

Luke 16:1-8

16 And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods.

²And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward.

³Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed.

⁴I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.

⁵So he called every one of his lord's debtors unto him, and said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord?

⁶And he said, An hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty.

⁷Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore.

⁸And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.

The Parable of the Shrewd Manager (or Unjust Steward) in Luke 16 describes a dishonest manager who is about to be fired for wasting his master's possessions. To secure his future, he shrewdly reduces the debts owed to his master by those who owe him, essentially buying favor for himself. Jesus then uses this story to teach that the "people of this world" are often more clever in securing their future than "people of the light". The lesson is to use "unrighteous wealth" (worldly possessions) to make "friends" by showing generosity and supporting righteousness, ensuring one has a welcome in "eternal dwellings" when possessions are gone.

The Story:

The Manager's Mismanagement: A rich man discovers his manager has been wasting his money.

The Dismissal: The master decides to fire the manager.

The Manager's Plan: Knowing his career is over, the manager shrewdly calls in his master's debtors and reduces their debts to secure his own future. He writes down the debts to ensure the debtors will help him when he is out of a job.

The Master's Reaction: The rich man, though dismayed by the manager's dishonesty, actually commends him for his shrewdness.

The Core Teaching (Application):

Shrewdness in the World vs. "Children of Light":

Jesus points out that the manager, a worldly person, was clever and resourceful in a bad situation to protect his own interests.

Using Wealth for Good:

He then contrasts this with believers, whom he calls "children of light." He instructs them to use their money (worldly wealth, or "mammon") to gain friends and build relationships that will last eternally.

Eternal Security:

The goal is to use earthly resources for good, so that when one's earthly tenure ends, one will be welcomed into an eternal home.

Faithfulness with Resources:

The parable also emphasizes that if you are not faithful with the small, worldly resources entrusted to you, you will not be trusted with the "true riches" of God's kingdom.

In summary, the parable isn't an endorsement of dishonesty but a call for believers to be as resourceful and far-sighted in using their wealth to serve God and others as a worldly person is in serving themselves.

Rich Man and Lazarus

Luke 16:19-31

¹⁹There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

²⁰And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,

²¹And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.

²²And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

²³And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

²⁴And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.

²⁵But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.

²⁶And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

²⁷Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:

²⁸For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.

²⁹Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.

³⁰And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.

³¹And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus teaches that a life of selfish luxury, characterized by indifference to the poor, leads to a terrible fate after death, while compassion and faith lead to eternal peace. The rich man, who experienced comfort in life but failed to share his resources, suffers in Hades, unable to cross a great gulf to reach Lazarus, who was a poor, suffering beggar in life but is now comforted in Abraham's presence. The parable emphasizes that there is no opportunity to change one's destiny after death and that those with wealth have a responsibility to help the less fortunate, using the scriptures as a guide for life.

The Story:

1. Life of Contrast:

A rich man lived a life of luxury, feasting daily, while a poor beggar named Lazarus, covered in sores, was left at his gate to eat scraps.

2. Death and Judgment:

Both men die, but their destinies are dramatically reversed. Lazarus is taken by angels to Abraham's side, a place of comfort and closeness. The rich man, however, finds himself in torment in Hades.

3. The Great Gulf:

From his suffering, the rich man sees Lazarus at peace with Abraham and cries out for relief, but a great, uncrossable gulf separates them.

4. A Plea for His Brothers:

The rich man then pleads with Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his five brothers so they will not end up in the same place of torment.

5. The Inadequacy of a Resurrected Messenger:

Abraham refuses, stating that the rich man's brothers have the teachings of Moses and the prophets (the scriptures) and must heed them. Abraham argues that if they do not listen to the scriptures, they will not be convinced even if someone returns from the dead.

Key Lessons:

Responsibility of Wealth: The parable highlights the spiritual dangers of wealth, not as inherently evil, but as a potential obstacle to a relationship with God if used selfishly.

Compassion and Charity: The rich man's condemnation comes not from active evil, but from a "sin of omission"—a failure to love his neighbor by ignoring Lazarus's suffering and not using his resources to help others.
The Finality of Death: Death seals one's fate, and there is no second chance to alter one's eternal destiny.
Guidance by Scripture: People have all the knowledge they need to live a righteous life through the scriptures and must act on that truth.
Spiritual vs. Worldly Status: The parable suggests that true spiritual status is not determined by earthly wealth or lineage but by one's relationship with God, exemplified by the rich man's spiritual separation from Abraham despite being his physical descendant.

Master and his Servant

Luke 17:7-10

⁷But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?

⁸And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink?

⁹Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not.

¹⁰So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

The Parable of the Master and His Servant, as told in Luke 17:7-10, teaches that when someone does their duty faithfully, they are simply fulfilling their obligation and don't deserve extra praise, just as a servant who finishes all their tasks for the master after a long day of work is only doing what's expected, not providing a gift. The focus is on humility and the inherent responsibility of a servant to obey and serve, rather than on receiving thanks or special rewards for merely doing what they are called to do.

Key Elements of the Parable:

The Master:

Represents God, the ultimate authority who gives commands and expects them to be followed.

The Servant:

Represents a person, or disciple, who is called to serve God and follow His will.

The Task:

The servant works all day, performing the tasks assigned by the master without expecting special treatment or thanks upon returning.

The Main Teaching:

Duty, Not Merit:

The parable emphasizes that serving God and doing what He expects is not a cause for boasting or expecting special praise. It is simply the fulfillment of a duty and an expression of appropriate humility.

The Nature of Service:

A servant does not provide a "gift" when performing their duties, nor do they expect the master to attend to their needs before fulfilling the master's own needs.

Humility:

The parable highlights the need for servants to recognize their position relative to their master and to not develop a superiority complex for merely fulfilling their obligations.

The Master's Unconditional Authority:

The master's needs are met first, reflecting God's authority, and only then are the servant's needs addressed with what remains.

Context:

The parable is told by Jesus to his disciples to remind them of the proper mindset and chain of command in the kingdom of God.

It serves as a contrast to the idea that mere service deserves special rewards or recognition.

Persistent Widow

Luke 18:2-8

²Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:

³And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.

⁴And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man;

⁵Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.

⁶And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.

⁷And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?

⁸I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?

The Parable of the Persistent Widow teaches the importance of persevering in prayer, even when answers seem delayed. In the parable, a widow repeatedly asks an unjust judge for justice, eventually wearing him down until he grants her request to avoid further bother. Jesus uses this story to encourage followers to persist in their requests to a loving and righteous God, who is far more willing to give justice than the corrupt judge. The point is not to badger God, but to cultivate a deep relationship and trust in His good character and timing, especially while awaiting His final judgment and vindication.

The Story:

The Widow: A marginalized widow who has been wronged and needs justice.

The Judge: An unrighteous judge who neither fears God nor cares about people.

The Plea: The widow repeatedly goes to the judge to plead her case.

The Result: The judge, annoyed by her persistence, eventually grants her a just outcome.

The Meaning and Purpose:

Perseverance in Prayer:
The widow's persistence demonstrates the need for faithful and sustained prayer, especially when facing discouragement or when answers are delayed.

Contrast with God:
Jesus contrasts the wicked judge with God to show that if an unjust man will act, a perfectly just and loving God will surely respond to His chosen people.

Trust in a Good God:
The parable isn't about wearing God down with constant requests but about building intimacy with a gracious God who delights in giving good things.

Awaiting Final Justice:
The parable also speaks to the delay before Christ's return and the final judgment, encouraging believers to keep praying and trusting that God will ultimately bring justice for them.

A Sign of Faith:
Continuing to pursue God in prayer is seen as a sign of faith, and Jesus questions whether He will find such faith on Earth when He returns.

Pharisee and Tax Collector

Luke 18:10-14

¹⁰Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

¹¹The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.

¹²I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.

¹³And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

¹⁴I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector, found in Luke 18:9–14, teaches that God accepts the humble prayers of those who recognize their sin and need for mercy, not the self-righteous prayers of those who exalt themselves and look down on others. Jesus contrasts a proud Pharisee, who boasts about his good deeds, with a repentant tax collector who humbly asks God for mercy. The tax collector is declared "justified" (made right with God) because of his humility, while the Pharisee's pride makes his prayers worthless in God's eyes.

The Parable's Story:

The Pharisee:

This religious man goes to the temple to pray. He stands apart and thanks God that he is not like other people, especially the tax collector, whom he lists as sinners. He lists his own virtuous acts, such as fasting twice a week and giving a tenth of his income. His prayer is an arrogant self-assessment and a judgment on others.

The Tax Collector:

This man, despised for his role in collaborating with the Romans and often seen as a cheat, also comes to pray. However, he stands at a distance, won't even look up to heaven, and beats his breast in sorrow. He doesn't try to recommend himself to God but instead cries out, "God, be merciful to me, a sinner!".

Jesus's Main Point:

Humility vs. Self-Righteousness: The core of the parable is the contrast between genuine humility and self-righteous pride.

Humble Prayer is Accepted: The tax collector's sincere and humble prayer, which acknowledges his sin and need for God's mercy, is accepted by God.

Pride Leads to Rejection: The Pharisee's pride and self-satisfaction make his prayer empty and unaccepted.

Justification by Mercy: The tax collector is justified (declared righteous in God's eyes) not by his own deeds but by God's grace and his own humble appeal for mercy.

Key Takeaways:

God values a humble heart: over outward displays of piety.

No one is truly righteous: in God's eyes by their own efforts.

We should approach God with humility and dependence, recognizing our need for His mercy.

Pride is a barrier to a right relationship with God, while humility opens the door.

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MAMABR3AD

3 days ago

Dear God,
Be with Erika Kirk. Give her strength. I pray Charlie went into your arms Lord. I know Jesus is so proud of this family and we will make sure to keep Charlie alive and keep the spread of the gospel going. It is a dark time Lord. Give us your armor. See you soon. Amen.

Travis Abernathy

a month ago

This is the best app I have ever used, along with having valuable and accurate information! Praise the lord!!!! I love you booky!!!

"Heavenly Father, I pray for the world to come to know You. I ask that you would touch their heart with your Holy Spirit, revealing your love and grace. Remove any barriers that prevent them from accepting your truth. May they encounter You in a way that is undeniable and life-changing. Surround them with believers who can share their testimony and walk with them on this journey. I pray they will repent of their sins and embrace Jesus as their Lord and Savior. In Jesus' name, Amen