We can see many parables when we look at the bible. Most of them were taught by Jesus. But why did Jesus use parables to teach us? Parables are one of the most effective tools. They are simple, but there are crucial points inside. We can still apply his parables when we face difficult times. When we look at Mt 13:10-17; Mk 4:10-12; Lk 8:9-10, we can see Jesus’ purpose to teach us. In this essay, We will focus on some of the Parables from Jesus.
In Matthew, there are numerous parables inside. In Matthew 18:12~14, The parables of Lost Sheep, Jesus taught his disciples about faith. He uses parables to understand them more easily. Jesus says If someone has 100 sheeps and one of them lost their way, the person who lost one sheep will leave 99 sheep and will find the last one. And he gives them advice after that by using parables again. He explains that when a person who finally finds one sheep that has lost way, he will feel happier than the 99 sheeps he has. When one of them loses its faith, we need to spread the gospel to make him believe. The reason for this is because it’s our owner, God’s will. The main point in these parables is that God rejoices over the repentance of one sinner. (Marina, M.(2024)
In Luke, we can also see some parables that he taught us. Many of them are famous, but in my opinion, The parables of Rich Fool are the most important lessons that he gives us. In the parable Rich Fool, written in Lk 12: 16~ 21, Jesus taught his disciples about life. When a rich man has produced a lot of food on his land, and when he decides to make a bigger food tank to put all of the food that he produced, and when he asks himself to live happier with all of the food he has, Jesus warns us that If that rich man is killed overnight, his wealth will become nothing. He says when we save all of our food and money for ourselves, it will be the same as the rich guy. In this Parable, Jesus gives advice to us not to worry about what to wear or what to eat. Even birds live without any clothes or safe homes. And we are more precious than those birds, which means we don’t have to worry about anything. God will prepare for us. The main point in this parable is that Life doesn’t consist of an abundance of possessions. (Marina, M.(2024)
Now, we can apply these two parables when we are concerned about our faith or life. Think of Parables and try to live as Jesus taught us. When we do that, we will truly understand the meaning of those parables. Life is full of choices, We need someone to lead us through those decisions not to regret our past choices. The parables and Jesus’ words will guide us to live more like him. And parables are one of the tools that he gives us about his advice.
Marina, M. (2024). Parables of Jesus (All 38 Parables with Verses & Meaning). [online] Bart D. Ehrman – New Testament Scholar, Speaker, and Consultant. Available at: https://www.bartehrman.com/parables-of-jesus.
