Episode 081 – Jesus and His Explosive Parables
Key Passage(s): Deuteronomy 19:15; Acts 1:1
Nearly one-third of Jesus’s teachings are in the form of parables. They are stories he tells to wake up his audience, challenge their assumptions, push them to think differently, and ultimately communicate the message of his movement. But if we don’t understand the nature of parables or how Jesus leveraged them, we will miss their intended purpose – and by association, we’ll miss what Jesus was doing. And we don’t want that to happen. Hence, this episode.
Discussion Questions
- What was your biggest takeaway from the teaching?
- How have you traditionally understood that nature and purpose of parables? Did you learn anything new that will help you better approach and study the parables?
- Of all the parables Jesus told, which one is your favorite? And why?
- Klyne Snodgrass wrote in Stories With Intent, “Parables enlighten and instruct, but often with a message that people do not want to hear (p. 159).” What are your thoughts on this?
- It was said in the teaching, “We do not grow without tension and challenge. Anything significant in life requires us to be pushed.” Where have you experienced this in your life?
- What are you most excited about or hoping to get out of this series on the parables?
- How can you begin preparing yourself this week to engage these explosive stories in the weeks to come?
For Further Study
- Stories With Intent by Klyne Snodgrass
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Brad, at some point would you explain Mat 13:10-15. Although 2 verses are quoted from Isaiah, it appears that Jesus spoke in parables so the people wouldn’t understand.
Hi Colleen! I just shot Episode 083 and in that forthcoming episode, I address this head on. Stay tuned.
Will this series help us to know how to obtain 2-3 witnesses in our situtations to confirm a matter? I think often times in my life I worry, cause anxiety and misunderstand what God’s wants me to see by jumping to conclusions and not confirming the matter. Not seeing it from A Walking out the Text Daily, spiritual way, which is what I want to achieve. Hope this made sense. I think I confused myself. Thank you Brad.
Hi Crystal, I always seek advice from those around me (my wife, best friends, and mentors) when I’m trying to discern something important. When I bring these other wise people into the discussion, God always clarifies what I’m supposed to do.
Also, I share many these teachings on social media and more so to people I come in contact with, even complete strangers. It’s too valuable and great to not share. It’s been life changing for me.
So thrilled to hear that, Crystal!
Please note the correct reference with regard to regard to witnesses is Matthew is 18:16 and not 18:6
Good catch Bruce! When we’re putting this many slides together, it’s not uncommon to miss the “1” thinking you’ve typed 16. I can’t imagine what it must have been like to be an ancient scribe!