THE PARABLES OF JESUS:
Learning from the Master Teacher
Yezdi Bhada, Ph.D., CMA
Trinity Church
Adult Bible Study
Jan. – Mar. 2014
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Introduction to the Study
• Who? When? Where? What will we be doing?
•
•
•
•
•
Why study these parables?
How should I approach the study?
What is a parable?
Interpreting parables
A sample study of a familiar parable
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Introduction to the Study
Why study the parables of Jesus?
• Christ Jesus, The Son of God, is the most credible source for
truth, the Kingdom of God, and righteous living
• He has the authority (Matt. 7:28)
• He teaches us what we need to know (Matt. 13:34-35)
– Opens door for the Holy Spirit to continue our sanctification
• He has the attributes of a Master Teacher:
– has a powerful and relevant message
– has the ability to communicate in a brief, simple, thoughtprovoking, instructive, and intelligent way to help us learn.
• This method of instruction demands active learning:
– Sows seeds to produce fruit
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Introduction to the Study
How should we approach the study?
1. Read the parable carefully: Focus on the message data
–
–
May need to read several times and/or more than one translation
Capture (describe) the scenario
2. Research the context
–
–
–
What prompted Jesus to tell this parable?
Consider the cultural and historical setting for that time
To whom is this parable addressed?
3. Process transference to real issue(s)
–
Make the connection between the data and the desired meaning
4. Recognize the message and other items of interest
–
–
What is the message of truth and God’s Kingdom that He is projecting?
Are there other lessons that can be learned?
5. Remember this message as it impacts you personally
–
–
How does this message improve my understanding of God’s Word?
How can I apply what I have learned to my life?
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Introduction to the Study
What is a parable?
• Derivation: Parabole (Greek); Mashal/Mathla (Hebrew)
• A method of communicating an idea from speaker to hearer
• Building a bridge from the natural to the spiritual
• Pictorial stories with definite learning objectives
• Videoing a familiar image to project truth
• In NT, used as a figure of speech in many different forms:
– Simile =emphatic and vivid similarity between two situations
– Similitude = image with distinctive familiarity
– Metaphor = implied characteristic likeness between situations
– Analogy = resemblance between two otherwise unlike situations
– Story = specific incident to evoke interest and motivate attention
– Allegory = fictional story that needs subjective use of imagination
– Other variations: illustration, proverb, fable, vignette, case
• Our usage: Parable = Jesus’ word pictures that illustrate a
profound truth for our learning and edification
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Introduction to the Study
Interpreting parables:
• Parables are not mere words from Jesus; they are meant to
make a real difference in our lives
• It is up to each one to personally understand the parable,
make the proper transference, and perceive the truth
• Be cognizant of the gap between the time of Christ and today:
– Parables were never spoken in a vacuum
– Consider the historical, cultural, religious, literary and
linguistic contexts
• Do not let your imagination run wild
– Do not “force” a meaning that is not meant to be there
• Call on the Holy Spirit to reveal the meaning for you
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
The Sower and the Soils
Reason for selecting this as the first parable:
• It begins with the origins of God’s Kingdom
• Jesus said it was easy to understand (Mark 4:13)
• Jesus Himself explains it (Matt.13:18-23; Mark 4:14-20; Luke
8:11-15)
Learning from the parable:
1. Read the parable: describe the scenario
• Matt. 13:3-9; Mark 4:2-9; Luke 8:4-8
2. Research the context
3. Process transference to real issue(s)
4. State the message and additional items of interest
5. What did I learn from the message?
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
The Sower and the Soils
2. Research the context
–
–
–
What prompted Jesus to tell this parable?
• Multitudes were coming to Him – opportunity to clarify His ministry
• He had recently rebuked Pharisees and hinted on His role (Matt 12)
Consider the cultural and historical setting for that time
• First Century Palestine was a predominantly agricultural society
• Israelites were familiar with sowing for wheat (staple diet) crops
• All objects included in the parable had been used in the OT
• Israelites could relate to image of God as sower and people as soil
• Form of the parable is a classic pattern in oral folklore
To whom is this parable addressed?
• The huge crowds that had gathered; i.e., people seeking Him
• “those from various cities were journeying to Him” (Luke 8:4); i.e.,
variety of backgrounds with different needs
• To all mankind seeking the truth; i.e., us included
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
The Sower and the Soils
3.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Process transference to real issue(s)
Significant components: Sower, seeds and 4 types of soil
“sower sowed” = Jesus, God, preachers/teachers, YOU/ME
“seeds” = the Word, life-giving wisdom, thoughts, deeds
“besides the road” = non-receptive, hardened heart, callous hearers
“birds ate them” = the evil one, naysayers, unholy friends/family
“rocky places”; “not much soil”; “no depth of soil” = ready to buy
whatever is sold; no strength of character; shallow heart
“immediately sprang up” = emotional response; superficial acceptance
“sun--- scorched”; “no root --- withered” = lose interest fast; retreat
under challenging circumstances; no courage of conviction
“thorns --- choked” = worldly temptations; social pressures, weak faith;
materialistic desires; strangled heart
“good soil” = open heart, receptive; seekers of truth; Believers
“yielded crop – 100, 60, 30 fold” = bring others to receive salvation;
work for the Kingdom of God; produce Fruit of the Spirit;
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
The Sower and the Soils
Sower
Jesus/God; preachers/teachers; us
Seeds
The Word; Kingdom of God; thoughts, deeds
besides road Hardened heart; non-receptive; callous hearers
birds
Satan & followers; misguided friends/family/media
rocky places, Shallow- heart; seemingly good, but no depth
not much soil Superficial; short-term emotional acceptance
sun-scorched Easily lost; retreat under challenging conditions
thorns
Strangled heart; worry-warts; worldly influenced
choked
Temporal desires; social pressures, materialistic
good soil
Receptive heart; willing to accept spiritual truth
yielded crop
Spiritually obedient; work for the Kingdom
100,60,30 fold Productive in varying degrees
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
The Sower and the Soils
4. The message and additional items of interest
• Jesus’ is spreading the message of new life and God’s
kingdom on earth
• He recognizes that the message will not be accepted by all.
There will be those who will not respond appropriately to
the message: the hardened hearts, weak characters and/or
temporally influenced individuals
• But, there will be those who will choose His gift of
salvation / eternal rewards and be spiritually productive
• As Believers, our duty is to continue His work by spreading
the Word throughout the world, and let “he who has ears,
let him hear”.
• Caveat: Our own plot of land may have road-sides, rocky
places, and thorn bushes alongside our fertile soil
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
The Sower and the Soils
5. What did I learn from this parable (my take-aways)?
• God has given me His Word and I should be willing to
receive it with an spiritually open heart
• I am also expected to be a sower of His Word
• I can not expect all seeds to fall on good soil, and it is
not for me to judge how others respond
• My own field can have road-sides, rocky places and
thorn bushes, along with my good soil
• I need “ears to hear”; i.e., I need to make a conscious
effort to learn from His teaching
THE PARABLES OF JESUS:
Pertaining to “The Kingdom of God”
Read Parable of the Seed Growing [Mark 4:26 – 29]
Description of Jesus’ word-picture:
• Man casts seeds on soil -> rests -> crops grow secretly
through stages -> harvested when ready
Context:
• Jesus teaching “The Kingdom of God” concepts to followers
• Continuing on foundation laid for parable of Sower/Seeds
• There may have been some zealots who wanted to push
their will with revolutionary tactics
• Same cultural and historical setting as with previous parable
• Israelites were familiar with God’s sickle (Joel 3:12-13)
• Clarifying the roles of God and man for multitudes / us
THE PARABLES OF JESUS:
Parable of the Growing Seed
Item pictured
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Kingdom of God
Sower
Seeds
‘goes to bed”
“gets up”
Seed sprouts -> grows
“himself not know”
“produces crop by itself”
“blade – head – grain”
“crop permits”
“puts in the sickle”
Projected image
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Spiritual reality; God’s truth
Man, preachers/teachers, us
The Word; wisdom; thoughts; deeds
Rests; completes phase; waits
Conscious; perceiving
Productive process of conversion
Secretive; incomprehensible
Unexplainable process; mysterious
Progression: germinate, grow, fruit
Ready for producing positive results
Judges the outcome with action
THE PARABLES OF JESUS:
Parable of the Growing Seed
The Message and additional items of interest:
• We are to faithfully spread the wisdom that Jesus has provided
with complete dependence on God to produce the harvest.
– Be fishers of men: you catch ‘em, he’ll clean ‘em
• The harvest does not depend on our secular wisdom, skills or zeal,
but on God’s miraculous process of growth.
• We need to be patient since the growth process may take time and
go through various stages
• Growth of the Kingdom is promised, harvest is inevitable, and will
be fulfilled at the right time [Matt.24:14]
What did I learn from this lesson?
• I am to do His will and He will take my participation to fruition
• His miraculous work is beyond my comprehension and control, but
I need to have faith (confidence, comfort) in His infinite power
• There will be a final day of judgment
RETENTION OF LEARNING
10 % of what we read.
26 % of what we hear.
30 % of what we see.
50 % of what we see and hear.
70 % of what we discuss with others.
80 % of personal experience.
90 % of what we say as we do it.
95 % of what we teach.
Source: Jenny Johnson, “Individualization of Instruction, “Faculty Focus, Fall 1996.
16
THE PARABLES OF JESUS:
Parable of the Tares among Wheat
Read the parable of Tares among Wheat: Matthew 13:24 – 30
• Description of word-picture (tell the story to someone):
Context:
• Jesus continuing on foundation for multitudes
• Cultural/ historical considerations as in previous parables
• Significant OT connections, particularly Book of Daniel
• Sabotaging a neighbor’s field by spreading weeds was not
uncommon. In fact, there were Roman laws against sowing tares
in someone else’s field
• The weed mentioned in Matthew was “darnel”, a poisonous
fungus found mainly in the Middle-East, which looked similar to
wheat as the two plants matured
• Trying to uproot weeds before the grain is ripe leads to
substantive loss of wheat crop
• Israelites knew that it takes patience and courage to let darnel
grow alongside the wheat until harvest time
THE PARABLES OF JESUS:
Parable of the Tares among Wheat
From data to desired image: Explained in Matt. 13:37-42
• “man who sowed” = “Son of Man” = “belongs to man” = Jesus
• “his field” = the world; the Church
• “good seed” = “sons of the kingdom” = belongs to Jesus = us
• “men were sleeping” = resting from their labor; not staying alert
• “the enemy” = the devil, Satan
• “ tares” = darnel; sons of the evil one = non-believers/opponents
• “slaves” = servants; Believers; the righteous [v.43]
• “harvest” = final judgment; “end of the age” [Daniel 12:2-3]
• “reapers” = His angels
• “gather them -- bind them -- burn them” = suffer consequence
• “righteous will shine ---” = glorious reward
• “into my barn” = eternity in Heaven
THE PARABLES OF JESUS:
Parable of the Tares among Wheat
The message and additional items of interest:
• The evil one does exist and will make every effort to
sabotage God’s work
• Satan will be active until the end of the ages
• Good and evil exist today, but will be separated in the end
• We need to be patient and faithful; let God take over
– Be fishers of men: you catch ’em, He’ll clean ‘em
• We are called to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges.
• It is difficult to distinguish between believers and nonbelievers and our actions could result in non-intended
consequences
• There is a reward for the righteous and punishment for
the wicked
THE PARABLES OF JESUS:
Parable of the Tares among Wheat
What did I learn from this parable?
• I need to stay alert at all times since the evil one
is lurking to deceive me
• I have to accept the fact that there are evil ones
on this earth
• It is not for me to judge whether someone is a
Believer or not
• It is my duty to pray, worship, witness, wait; and
have faith in God to achieve ultimate results
• I am assured a place in God’s Kingdom.
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parables Regarding Lamps
LAMP 1 : Read Matt. 5:14-16; Mark 4:21-22; Luke 8:16-18
• Description:
Context:
• Part of Sermon on the Mount
• Clarification of discipleship responsibilities
• Jesus often used image of light / lamps; common
items
• Lamp (with floating wick) usual form of lighting, even
in daytime
• Lampstand: usually niche in wall of house
• Jesus addressing multitudes (disciples and followers)
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parables Regarding Lamps
Transference from word picture to meaning:
• “You are the light of the world” = personal responsibility to
carry the Gospel message
• City set on a hill cannot be hidden = Jesus standing atop the
mountain; His message can not be buried
• V.15: enlightenment is not to be kept unused, but is given for
edification of all those who need the wisdom
• V.16: people who have the true knowledge of God are to
enlighten others through their walk
• “Glorify your Father” = Bless, exalt, love God by doing His will
• [Mark & Luke] “nothing hidden … to be revealed … no secret …
should come to light” = truth/Gospel will & should be revealed;
– could also refer to sins that may be concealed, but will be
made known at time of final judgment
• [Luke v.8:18] emphasizes importance of learning – reward is
proportionate to obedience
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parables Regarding Lamps
Message and other points
• The world is in spiritual darkness and Jesus is the light-giver
– The sinful nature of man can clearly be seen in light of
Jesus’ message
– Jesus’ message of salvation should be openly spread to the
world
• We are to be light-bearers by proclaiming the Gospel
– It is every Believer’s responsibility to convey His message
– Being a Believer should not be a secret, but should be used
for furtherance of His Kingdom
• Our lives need to reflect His sinless character
– We may try to hide our sins, but we can not hide them
from God
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parables Regarding Lamps
What did I learn?
• I have the responsibility to project Jesus’ message to the
world
• I can serve God’s Kingdom through my walk and my talk
– The presence of sin darkens my life and should be
avoided at all cost
– There is the need for learning from His Word to be
effective in spreading the Gospel
• I show my love for God by doing His will
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parables Regarding Lamps
LAMP 2 : Read Luke 11:33-36
• Reiterates start of previous parable, but moves to new input
Context:
• Starts with familiar picture, then changes direction
• Responding to blaspheming Pharisees and other opponents
– Cast out demon – claimed it was work of devil [v.14-26]
– Reference to “wicked generation” [v.29]
– Challenging Him to prove Himself [v.29 para.]
Transference:
• “lamp of body is eye” = eye is gate to perception of reality
• “clear eye” = receptive heart to comprehend truth
• “bad eye” = sinful desires
• “darkness” = sin blocking the ability to live a full life
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parables Regarding Lamps
Message and other inputs:
• Jesus is telling non-believers that He has illuminated the
world with The Word that can save them
• However, to receive the truth, one needs an open heart
• A receptive heart permits life to receive God’s blessings
• Those who have “seen the light” need to be careful and
not permit sin to blur perception of righteousness
• Sin inhibits us from incorporating God’s truth in our lives
What did I learn?
• If I want to enjoy God’s blessings, I need to take in (learn)
His Word, and avoid sin with a passion.
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
A Pair of Parables: “ The Mustard Seed” & “The Leaven”
READ : Parable of the Mustard Seed
• Mark 4:30-32; Matt.13:31-32; Luke 13:18-19
CONTEXT:
• Jesus knows Israelites’ concept of “kingdom”
– More like earlier warrior kings, as in King Saul, David; Solomon, etc.
– They expected a massive, powerful, king to overthrow Romans
• Jesus was fond of using mustard seed in His illustrations
• Mustard seed was the smallest seed known to Israelites
– Jesus was using a popular Jewish idiom for “something really small”
– Smallest measurable and smallest amount that could be weighed
– One type comes in a pod; when seed is crushed it spews a dust that
becomes the mustard seed
– May be “black mustard”, an herb used as condiment and for m.s. oil
• OT has references to trees as mighty kingdoms [Ezk. 17, 31; Dan.4]
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The Mustard Seed
TRANSFERENCE :
• “Kingdom of God” = main theme: God’s message of salvation
• Presented / compared with: signifies important concept
• mustard seed = main item to illustrate spiritual reality
– Essential implications noted in Context section
• “smallest of all …” = insignificant, inconsequential (important
attribute for comparison)
• “when planted” = necessary condition for further action
• “grows … becomes large” = miraculous transformation
• “becomes a tree” = implies growth beyond normal
• “birds can nest” = provides peaceful shelter; or could mean
attracts non-desirable infiltrators
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The Mustard Seed
MESSAGE:
• Jesus wants disciples to shift their concept of His Kingship
– He wants to replace their pre-conceived notion of “kingdom”
– To adjust perspective and focus on eternal values
– His is not a temporal/earthly (social, political, economic) kingdom,
but is a spiritual Kingdom of God
• Communicates that His ministry starts in an unimpressive form
• However, it will miraculously continue to grow to blossom and provide
refuge to many
• The beginning is tiny, but the end is beyond normal bounds
– Born a babe, 12 followers, 3.5 years of ministry, death on a Cross;
120 at Pentecost, 3,000 in Acts 2; Acts 4:4 up to 5,000; continuous
persecution of followers; today 2 Billion+; at time of harvest ???
• Out of the most insignificant beginnings, God provides the means for all
those who seek salvation to be in His Kingdom
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The Mustard Seed
WHAT DID I LEARN?
• God can start with the insignificant / inconsequential
and yet produce the unimaginable triumph
• God’s ways are contrary to the ways of the world
• I need to plant seeds, however small they may appear
• I am not to be discouraged at small or slow beginnings
• Don’t fall for the “I want it, and I want it now” culture
• Leads me to consider issues of size and success
• I can be rest assured that God’s Kingdom will eventually
attain significant results, irrespective of its inauspicious
start or its apparently slow progress
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The Leaven
READ : Matt.13:33; Luke 13:20-21
CONTEXT:
• Partner to the Mustard Seed parable (reinforces concepts)
• Israelites familiar with bread baking process
– “leaven” = yeast; fungus used as agent for baking / brewing
– They used fermented dough from previous baking
– Alien to natural constitution of flour
– Leaven and flour need each other for reaction /result
– Properties: it is pervasive, persistent, strong; an irreversible,
mysterious process; when in flour, it yields a delicious aroma
• “leaven” as ingredient was used in OT (Exo.12, Lev.7)
• Israelite mindset emphasizes beginning / ending in situation
– Contemporary mindset emphasizes process
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The Leaven
TRANFERENCE:
• “Kingdom of God”: as discussed previously; Godly wisdom
• “like leaven” = possible opposite interpretations:
– Used in Bible with positive and negative connotations
– Related to individual, church, or all humanity
– Other transformational implications: discussed in Context
• “hid” = term for common baking practice; infused, incorporated
• “3 pecks of meal” = “sata” (Greek) = dough
– Large quantity; approx. 50 lbs.; can feed 100 people
– “3” relates to Gen. 18:6; Abraham’s bread for the Lord
• “until it was” = represents inward transformation
• “all leavened” = spread throughout; expanded greatly
– Process implication: little leaven, big effect
– Emphasis on conclusion of process
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The Leaven
MESSAGE:
• Christ has introduced an element in humanity that will work
persistently, pervasively, irreversibly
• His power (The Holy Spirit) will work from within the temporal body:
individually, corporately and universally
– The Holy Spirit is the necessary essential for transformation
• The Kingdom of God will spread throughout the nations
– Results come not from military might , but through quite effort
– “The Great Commission” is process for achieving results
– God’s influence will continue to grow and be felt worldwide
WHAT DID I LEARN?
• Jesus has sown the Word for all mankind
• The Holy Spirit is mysteriously establishing the Kingdom of God
through me and other Believers
• I need the Word and the Spirit in my life to grow spiritually
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
A Pair of Parables: Similarities and Differences
“ The Mustard Seed” & “The Leaven”
SIMILARITIES:
• Both clarify the Kingdom of God Gospel
• Both start with unimpressive credentials, but continue on
path to impressive completion
• Both deal with familiar items that people can relate to
• Both require insertion and a miraculous creative process
• Both end in substantive growth for significant results
DIFFERENCES
• M.S. sown by MAN; Leaven inserted by WOMAN
• M.S. -> EXTERNAL growth; L. -> INTERNAL transformation
• Elements have different PROPERTIES
• Leaven has been used with OPPOSITE connotations in Bible
• Leaven parable implies need for HOLY SPIRIT and THE GREAT
COMMISSION
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of Vineyard Owner, Son and Tenants
READ: Mark 12:1-12; Matt. 21:33-45; Luke 20:9-19
CONTEXT:
• Parable follows His dramatic entry into the temple
• Directs His message to Jewish religious authorities
– Addressed to Sanhedrin (chief priests, scribes, Pharisees)
• “vineyard” well recognized as symbol of God’s Israel
– Several OT references to the “vine” (Jer.2:21; Ezk.19:10; Ps.80:8-10)
• Structures message using Israeli history to make His point
• Appears to answer question that was left unanswered: “by what
authority are you doing these things?”
• Background to this parable: Isaiah 5:1-7 (Song of the Vineyard)
– Another important connection: PS.118:22-23;
• Historical note: Galileans had mistreated foreign landowners
– Used “squatter’s rights” after 3 years of land rental
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of Vineyard Owner, Son and Tenants
TRANSFERENCE:
• [v.1] God created earth and all that is in it (connect with Isaiah)
– Made covenant with His people so they could be productive
• [v.2] arranged through His prophets to receive faithful service as
return for His trust in providing them with livelihood
• [v.3-5] His people acted defiantly, irresponsibly, and rejected His
authority by shamefully attacking His appointed emissaries
• [v.6] His last-ditch effort was to send his Beloved Son Jesus, with
expectation of their relenting on seeing how special He is
• [v.7] leaders decide on evil action to willfully disobey, usurp
authority, and repudiate God’s right to His Kingdom
• [v.8] Jesus prophesies His own ignoble death
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of Vineyard Owner, Son and Tenants
TRANSFERENCE (contd.)
• [v.9] question based on righteous indignation:
– Answer: reject those who denied God’s authority (Jewish
religious authorities), and channel blessings to a group that is
willing to be faithful (Christ’s followers, gentiles and Jews)
• [v.10-11] quotes Psalm 118:22-23
– “stone” reference in Dan.2:34-35
– Jesus is the chief corner stone rejected by Jewish leaders
– He brings the marvelous gift of salvation through God’s Grace
• [v.12] “they” = Jewish religious leaders (Chief Priests, Pharisees)
– Note: they knew He was addressing the parable to them, but
did not heed His warning
– In fact, they fulfilled His prophesy
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of Vineyard Owner, Son and Tenants
MESSAGE:
• Jesus confirms the past (history of Israel); the present (His
earthly mission); and the future (His Church/Believers)
• Claims religious leaders to be greedy, disobedient,
dishonorable
• Provides insight into God’s character: patient, long-suffering,
compassionate, noble
• After repeated rejection of His messengers, God is willing to
sacrifice His Son to provide one more opportunity for salvation
• Demonstrates that His righteous anger, frustration, anguish,
and desire for retributive justice are all repressed by His Grace
• Judgment is not on all Jews, but on those who reject Him
(Jews and gentiles)
• He prophesies His own death
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of Vineyard Owner, Son and Tenants
WHAT DID I LEARN?
• Solidifies my understanding of why God had to send
His only Begotten son to save me/us
• The lesson from this parable is just as applicable
today as it was when Jesus presented it
• Helps me explain why we need to follow Jesus
• As His new tenant, it is imperative that I/we do not
replicate the Jewish model of behavior
• Makes me appreciate God’s Grace more than ever.
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The TALENTS
READ : Matt.25:14-30 (Similar parable in Luke 19:12-27)
CONTEXT:
• Jesus had instructed on faithfulness before this parable
• He is about to go on The Cross
• So, this one is part of His last important body of teaching
– There is a cumulative effect if parable is studied with the
Foolish Virgins and the parable of the Sheep and Goats
• “talents = “talanta” (Greek) = large sum of money
– 1 talent = approx. $200,000 -$250,000 = 10 years wages
• Concepts of judgment, reward, punishment important to Jesus
– Most likely, He presented a variation on this parable as the
Parable of Minas detailed in Luke’s Gospel
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The TALENTS
TRANSFERENCE:
• “It is just like…” = Kingdom of Heaven (v.25:1)
• “a man” = Jesus
• “… go on a journey …” = absence from earth; time between First
and Second Coming
• “… own slaves …” = disciples; Believers
• “entrusted” = God bestowed stewardship
• “possessions” = Gospel; message of Salvation
• “talents” = Can mean resources, skills, gifts, talents, money
• “5, 2, 1” = different degrees, magnitude variation
• “… according to ability …”= different levels of inherent resources
– NT evidence: Paul in Rom.12:6-8; Christ’s gifts in Eph. 4:7-8
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The TALENTS
TRANSFERENCE (continued)
• :…went and traded …” = worked with intent to produce results
• “… hid his master’s money …” = did not use resource gainfully
• “ … after a long time …” = time till Second Coming
• “ … settled accounts …” = required accountability
• “ … I have gained …” = reporting results of work
• [v.21-23] accomplishment judged as faithful, rewarded
accordingly, bestowed with master’s favor and friendship
• “ … the one who received the one talent …” starts with his
personal assessment of master’s negative character attributes
• “I was afraid …” = lack of faith; cowardly reaction
• “ … hid talent …” = did not use gift; spiritual atrophy
• “ … you have what is yours … “ = excuse for callous handling
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The TALENTS
TRANSFERENCE (continued)
• “ … Master answered …” = judgment; response to inaction
• “ … wicked, lazy …” = irresponsible slanderer, slothful, callous
• [v.26-27] If this is what you believed, then you knew your
responsibility and should have acted accordingly
• “ … take away …” = consequence of shirking responsibility
• “ … give it to …” = heap reward on the faithful
• [v.29] magnitude of reward is directly related to
accomplishment; serious consequence for non-compliance
• “ … worthless slave …” = lacking value in God’s Kingdom
• “ … outer darkness …” = apart from God’s light; hell
• “ … weeping / gnashing of teeth …” = uncomfortable existence
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The TALENTS
MESSAGE:
• God provides disciples with resources / abilities
• Each one is bestowed specific abilities at defined magnitudes
• We have the responsibility to use our resources effectively
• Resources are to be used to serve the Kingdom of God
• We need to work productively and not be timid or lazy
• We are accountable for how we use our unique resources
• Ability + responsibility -> accountability
• There will be a day of reckoning when our works will be judged
• God will be the judge and His judgment is final
• No excuses will prevail, for the truth will be known by Him
• God is a good and benevolent Father to the faithful, but a stern
disciplinarian to the rebellious, lazy, faithless
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of The TALENTS
WHAT DID I LEARN?
• I have been blessed with unique resources by God
• There is the corresponding responsibility to use these
resources effectively for God’s Kingdom
• My abilities plus this responsibility makes me
accountable to God
• There will be a day when I will stand in front of God
to receive His judgment
• I want to hear the words: “well done, good and
faithful servant”
• Hence, I have to do my very best to be faithful to His
calling
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE RICH FOOL
READ : Luke 12:16-21
CONTEXT:
• Addressing multitude / disciples (12:1)
• Implication for Pharisees coveting material possessions
– they believed God blesses those who pursue wealth
• Responding to issue brought up by “someone in crowd” [v13]
– Wants to clarify His role – they want him to be a civil judge
• Jesus uses agricultural setting familiar to followers
• Knows that money is a major item of interest (Jesus refers to
money more than most other items to make His point)
• Continues distinction between body and soul
(temporal/eternal)
• Jesus wants to reiterates the principle from Ecclesiastes that
seems to have been ignored by the rich
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE RICH FOOL
TRANSFERENCE:
• [V.16] God blesses man with productive resources
– Concept of “divine favor” or “common grace”
– Note: man is already rich; his needs have been met
• [v.17] Man, as steward, has the opportunity to choose his action
• [v18] Man worldly reasoning encourages gluttonous desire
– Temporal success sprouts covetous decision
• [v.19] Pride/self-aggrandizing promote foolish desires
– False sense of security and self-promotion create disillusionment
– Action rationalized by misuse of God’s word (Eccl. 8:15 out of context)
– Violates God’s First Commandment; first love is himself
• [v.20] God is sovereign over life and resources
– Man does not have permanent rights to anything
– Biblically “fool” refers to practical atheist [Ps.14:1; 53:1]
• [v.21] Worldly pleasures are temporal and not spiritually rich
– “here today, gone tomorrow”
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE RICH FOOL
MESSAGE:
• Seek spiritual blessings, not worldly pleasures and acquisitions
– Do not covet or be preoccupied with riches
– God considers pursuit of wealth for selfish desires to be foolish
• God is the source for life and satisfaction; we have little control
– Life is not a right, but a loaned gift
• “Rich” is not defined by acquired wealth, but by the attitude
toward usage of wealth
– We are responsible stewards, not owners of wealth
• Possessions are temporal, but can be invested for eternal riches
• Wealth can be a dangerous obstacle for eternal life [Matt.19:24]
• The love of money is the root of all evil
– You can’t serve God and mammon [Matt.6:24]
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE RICH FOOL
WHAT DID I LEARN?
• God is sovereign over my life; I must trust and obey
• I need to continuously question my priorities
– Put God’s commandments ahead of my personal wants / desires
• I am accountable for how I use God-given resources
– I am a privileged steward, not an owner of my resources
– I need to invest in eternal rewards, not temporal pursuits
• I should not covet material possessions; however, I can enjoy
blessings God has bestowed on me
• Be “rich toward God” should be my goal
– Detailed in 1 Tim.6:17-19
• Never forget Matt.6:31-34; Luke12:29-31
– “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these
things shall be added to you “
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE UNRIGHTEOUS, SHREWD STEWARD
• “The insights one can draw from this parable are both
profound and exciting. At the same time it is one of the
most difficult parables of all to understand. It has taken
me 40 years to begin to grasp what the parable is
teaching, and I have talked about it with many great Bible
teachers and theologians.”
R.T. Kendall, The Parables of Jesus, 2004
• “The parable of the unjust steward has always been
disturbing. Preachers, writers, interpreters, and teachers
of the Bible often avoid it like the plague.”
Kenneth E. Bailey, Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes,
2008
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE UNRIGHTEOUS, SHREWD STEWARD
Read the Parable: LUKE 16:1-9
CONTEXT:
• Primary focus: instruction to disciples [v.1]
• Also for scoffing Pharisees [v.14]; Jesus had already addressed:
• their hypocrisies [12:1]; covetousness [12:15]; pride [14:11]
• Now, directly aiming at their attitude toward money
• Important to know cultural norms of that time
• Kenneth E. Bailey describes prevailing Eastern cultural norms
• To emphasize the point, Jesus intentionally uses large amounts in
His illustrations, e.g.,
• 100 measures of oil = 1,000 Denari = 3 years worker wages
• 20 measures of wheat = 500 Denari = 1.5 years of wages
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE UNRIGHTEOUS, SHREWD STEWARD
TRANSFERENCE:
• “rich man” = person blessed by God with common grace
• “steward” = manager authorized to act on behalf of owner
– a powerful, responsible, lucrative position
• “reported” = by whom? Likely reliable, credible sources
• “squandering possessions” = misusing privileges
• “give an account” = “turn in account books”
• “can no longer be steward” = fired? or, can be fired?
• [v.3] faces action choice: assesses options (note: does not consider
defense, or asking for opportunity to face accusers)
• [v.4] Decides on a self-preservation strategy
• [v.5-7] implements dishonest, unscrupulous, but resolute plan
– Meets with debtors individually, and offers unearned
reduction in debt
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE UNRIGHTEOUS, SHREWD STEWARD
TRANSFERENCE (cont.)
• “master praised the unrighteous steward”. WHY would he do so? How can an
obviously deceitful action be praised? Possible explanations:
– Master also is a dishonest person who appreciates subordinates who
emulate his ways
• No real evidence to support this explanation; but case can be made
– Master is not praising dishonesty, but acknowledges shrewd action
• “… because he had acted shrewdly…” [v.8]
• “I know my steward is a rascal, but a really clever rascal”
• Shrewd action involved: to be detailed later
– Master is making lemonade out of a lemon
• Intent may have been dishonest, but result can be turned to
advantage by master
• Overt praise to save face by taking credit for generosity and/or
avoiding criticism for dishonoring commitment
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE UNRIGHTEOUS, SHREWD STEWARD
TRANSFERENCE (contd.)
• What constitutes shrewd behavior:
– clear assessment of issues
– knowledge of prevalent culture and/or master’s character
– planning for the future based on above
– acting decisively
• “sons of this age” = worldly people who shrewdly manipulate
to gain temporal advantage
• “sons of light” = people who act on basis of spiritual wisdom
• [v.9] PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE: use earthly wealth (mammon
of unrighteousness) to bring people (friends) who will be with
you in Heaven
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE UNRIGHTEOUS, SHREWD STEWARD
MESSAGE:
• Short-sighted desire for self-preservation leads to sinful actions
• Money by itself is not evil and it provides temporary value
– use worldly wealth with eternity in mind
– Specifically, be prudently generous to win souls for the Kingdom
• God is the master who deals with justice, mercy and integrity
• We have the free will to make choices:
– Satisfy today’s desires (selfish), OR plan shrewdly for tomorrow (proactive)
– Take the easy way out (temporal), OR take the righteous way (spiritual)
– Shun God (non-believer), OR accept Christ as your Lord (Christian)
– Cut corners (dishonest behavior), OR live with faith (integrity)
– Practice situational ethics (relativism), OR submit to God’s authority (truth)
– Serve the pursuit of worldly wealth (mammon), OR invest in eternity (GOD)
– Look ahead to eternal damnation (hell), OR gain eternal rewards (Heaven)
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE UNRIGHTEOUS, SHREWD STEWARD
WHAT DID I LEARN?
• I will have to account for my stewardship of His
resources
• I need to be careful in choices I make in times of crises
– Do not let self-preservation lead to dishonest action
– I should not look for the easy way out or practice
situational ethics
• I am expected to use my money prudently for eternal
blessings
• I will be rewarded for making the right choices
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE PRODIGAL SON
• Perhaps the most famous parable of them all [Luke 15:11-32]
• Called the pearl or crown of Jesus’ parables (RT Kendall)
– Gospel within a gospel
– No equal to it in all literature
– The most powerful picture of a gracious God, and of the
motivation behind Jesus’ ministry
• “The Prodigal Son”: an inadequate title
– There are three important characters: the prodigal son, the
father and the older son
– Puts emphasis on one character – the prodigal
• “prodigal” = extravagant, reckless, wasteful spender
– Prefer title: “The Loving Father and Two Rebellious Sons”
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE PRODIGAL SON
CONTEXT:
• Response to Pharisees and Scribes who were sneering at Him
“This man receives sinners and eats with them” [v.15:2b]
– Also for tax collectors and sinners
– In fact, for all mankind [14:21]; ( includes us)
• Connected to 2 other parables: “The Lost Sheep” [15:3-7] and
“The Lost Coin” [15:8-10]
• Culturally relevant items they could relate to:
– Sons’ entitlement to inheritance [Deut. 21:17]
– Impropriety of son asking for inheritance while father is alive
– Concept of “far country” = lost/dead for all practical purposes
• Jesus wants to clarify God’s attitude toward repentant sinners
• NT parallel to OT Book of Jonah
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE PRODIGAL SON
The Prodigal Son: SINNERS
NEGATIVES
• Rebellious
The Prodigal Son: REPENTANT SINNERS
POSITIVES
• Awakened to true condition
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE PRODIGAL SON
The Prodigal Son: SINNERS
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
NEGATIVES
Rebellious
Impatient /demanding
Selfish
Repudiates authority
Rejects father’s love
Shuns responsibility
Gratifies carnal desires
Wastes gifted resources
Defiles himself
Renounces religion
Despicable, sinful character
The Prodigal Son: REPENTANT SINNERS
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
POSITIVES
Awakened to true condition
Acknowledged unworthiness
Confessed sins
Willing to accept authority
Devised a shrewd plan
Swallowed pride
Showed courage
Was “born again”
“from villain to hero”
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE PRODIGAL SON
Older Son: SINNER
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
NEGATIVES
Uncontrolled anger
Judgmental, unsympathetic
Reject’s father’s pleas
Resentful, bitter attitude
Self-righteous
Inflated sense of importance
Entitled to his blessings
Desires temporal things
Pride, superiority complex
Jealous
Takes himself too seriously
Older Son: COMPLIANT CHILD
•
•
•
•
POSITIVES
Stayed with father
Was faithful to father
Accepted his
responsibilities
Hard-working, loyal son
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE PRODIGAL SON
FATHER: Attributes of God’s Character:
• RESPECTFUL: gives free-will to make choices
• HOPEFUL: was looking for son’s return (still a long way away)
• COMPASSIONATE: ran and embraced him
• GRACIOUS: welcome is unexpected, undeserved and unearned
• LOVING: accepts son(s) unconditionally
• MERCIFUL: “embraced him, kissed him”
• UNDERSTANDING: did not let son complete his confession
• REDEEMING: robe, ring
• RESTORING: sandals, fattened calf
• FORGIVING: all actions demonstrate that son is forgiven
• JOYFUL: “let us eat and be merry”
• GOOD: pleads for righteousness (to older son)
• KIND / GENTLE: speaks affectionately to older son
THE PARABLES OF JESUS
Parable of THE PRODIGAL SON
MESSAGE:
• God offers forgiveness and salvation to all (including
selfish, rebellious, self-righteous and other sinful
characters) irrespective of the magnitude of the sin,
so long as they repent and come willingly to HIM
• Our Father and Jesus love us even when we backslide
• We need to practice attributes of God’s character, not
prodigality or self-righteousness
• God’s Grace supersedes The Law as in Deut.21:18-21
• Pay attention to Ephesians 2:1-7