Topics

Parables

Parables are earthly stories with heavenly meanings that Jesus used to teach spiritual truths and reveal the kingdom of God. They challenge listeners to spiritual discernment and often contain warnings about discipleship, spiritual blindness, and the cost of following Christ.

Overview

Jesus frequently taught through parables—memorable stories that illustrated spiritual principles through everyday situations. These narratives served multiple purposes: to reveal truth to believers while concealing it from those spiritually unprepared, and to make divine instruction memorable and applicable to daily life. Parables demand thoughtful reflection and spiritual understanding.

Key Scriptures

"A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, 'Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?'" (Luke 13:6-7, NKJV)

"But He said to them, 'Why do you look at the speck in your brother's eye, but do not perceive the plank in your own eye?'" (Luke 6:41, NKJV)

"For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it?" (Luke 14:28, NKJV)

Application

Meditate on Christ's parables to uncover their spiritual meaning and examine what changes He calls you to make in following Him wholeheartedly.

Scripture References 40
Full Topical Reference List 468 total — Nave's Topical Bible

Blind leading the blind

Children of the bride chamber

House, divided against itself

Kingdom, divided against itself

Man of the house watching

New cloth and old garment

New wine and old bottles

Of the husbandman (N.T.)

Of the thistle and cedar

Pearl of great price

Strong man armed

The athlete

The mercenary soldier

Treasure hid in a field

Unclean spirit