parables an earthly story with a heavenly truth

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2 parables an earthly story with a heavenly truth All Scripture taken from the New King James Version unless otherwise stated. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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4 Table of Contents A Letter from Pastor Chris... 5 Introduction... 6 The Parable of the Old and New Wineskins... 8 The Parable of the Blind Leading the Blind The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders The Parable of the Two Debtors The Parable of the Lamp on a Stand The Parable of the Strong Man The Parable of the Sower The Parable of the Growing Seed The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares (Opposition to the Kingdom of God, Part 1) The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Opposition to the Kingdom of God, Part 2) The Parable of the Leaven (Opposition to the Kingdom of God, Part 3) The Parable of the Hidden Treasure (The Search, Part 1) The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price (The Search, Part 2) The Parable of the Dragnet (The Search, Part 3) The Parable of the Scribe The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant The Parable of the Good Samaritan The Parable of the Friend at Midnight The Parable of the Rich Fool The Parable of the Faithful Servants... 61

5 The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree The Parable of the Lowest Place The Parable of the Builder (Counting the Cost, Part 1) The Parable of the King (Counting the Cost, Part 2) The Parable of the Salt (Counting the Cost, Part 3)) The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Seeking the Lost, Part 1) The Parable of the Lost Coin (Seeking the Lost, Part 2) The Parable of the Lost Son (Seeking the Lost, Part 3) The Parable of the Unjust Steward The Parable of the Master and the Servant The Parable of the Persistent Widow The Parable of the Pharisee & the Tax Collector The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard The Parable of the Two Sons (Rejecting God, Part 1) The Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Rejecting God, Part 2) The Parable of the Wedding Feast (Rejecting God, Part 3) The Parable of the Fig Tree The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins The Parable of the Talents The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats Appendix A: List of Parables with References Appendix B: Hidden Treasures Checklist

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8 A Letter from Pastor Chris Dear Friend, The parables of Jesus are among the most memorable aspects of Jesus teaching. Jesus was a master storyteller and was able to illustrate biblical truths through object lessons with which everyone could relate. He also understood that not everyone was going to understand His cryptic teaching style. The Bible makes clear that hearing they do not hear (Matt. 13:13). In other words, they audibly heard the teaching of the parable, but they did not grasp the intended meaning behind the illustration. When I was in seminary, Dr. Elmer Towns emphasized the definition of a parable as an earthly story with a heavenly truth. Furthermore, my hermeneutics courses emphasized that Christ was the key figure throughout all of Scripture. As I began to consider each of the parables, my desire was to identify Christ within the narrative before assuming my own role. It s funny how we often read the parables and want to identify ourselves as the hero of the narrative. Instead, we should identify Jesus as the hero. We are often the one that has messed up and needs to be rescued. My desire in writing this book was to view the parables through a Christological lens. I encourage you to read through the parables of Jesus with a new lens; a lens that is focused on Jesus as the key figure. The closer we look the more Jesus comes into focus. He Who Has Ears, Let Him Hear! Pastor Chris 5

9 Introduction Jesus seldom spoke to the multitudes without using a parable. Matthew 13:34 states, All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them. The word parable means likeness and comes from para (besides) and ballo (to cast). You may remember from math class the word parabola, which is a symmetrical open plane curve where one side mirrors the other. Jesus shares parables, which are stories that have a surface meaning and then a mirrored spiritual meaning. It is an earthly story with a heavenly truth. The Gospel According to Luke contains the most parables. The Gospel According to John does not contain any parables. There is a list of parables found in Appendix A of this book. However, it is important to make clear that nearly every list of parables varies. This is largely due to differing criteria in developing the list. Some may dismiss a single sentence (or verse) as an actual parable. The list found here may not be exhaustive, but it will serve the purpose of encouraging you to read the parables with a Christological lens. Also included are Hidden Treasures (i.e. Scripture Memory Verses) for you to memorize as you study the parables. Before jumping into the parables you may want to read the following passages and consider why Jesus taught with parables: Matt. 13:10-17, 34-35; 51-52; Mark 4:10-12, 33-34; Luke 8:9-10. Jesus used parables to reach the spiritually receptive listener, but hid His message to the antagonist or non-receptive (cf. Matt. 13:11). It seems that Jesus used parables as His primary teaching method for six reasons: 1. Memorable. Parables are easy to remember. People tend to remember stories better than abstract ideas. 2. Motivating. Parables inspire us toward a new way of thinking and living. 3. Universal. Parables have a universal appeal and application to people of all classes and cultures. 4. Captivating. Parables hold the attention of those listening. 5. Insightful. Parables make listeners think through the principle being taught. 6. Conceal. Parables conceal the truth from those who are disinterested or in rebellion to Him. 6

10 Listed below are the seven principles I used in interpreting each parable. 1. Begin with Christ s interpretation. This may be found in the introduction or the conclusion. If Jesus offers a clear explanation of the parable, we need not look further. We should also look to Jesus interpretation of His own parables as a pattern for interpreting His other parables. 2. Look for one central truth. Don t force an interpretation of the parable onto the story. There is usually one central truth and the details will support the main point. We might ask how the central truth fits into the larger narrative of the whole of Scripture and the Gospel. 3. Look for Jesus. We may aspire to be the Good Samaritan, but we are not the Good Samaritan in the parable Jesus is. We are the one who needs to be rescued and bandaged. 4. Don t press the details, but don t minimize the details. The details should help us understand the whole and without them the parable would be deficient. Don t make the details say more than the passage itself. For example, when understanding the Parable of the Good Samaritan, don t look into a motive for why the priest avoided the wounded man (e.g. he feared being mugged). That s not the point. Instead, notice it was a religious figure that should have helped but didn t. The details of priest, Levite, Samaritan are all important details and those details will support the overall interpretation. 5. Consider the context and the culture. What was the setting in which Jesus shared the parable? Who was present? What prompted the parable? The central truth is going to parallel the current events. Each parable has its own lesson, which is based on the original intent of the Lord. The meaning is going to be reinforced by the similarity between the event and the story s proper interpretation. 6. A parable has one interpretation (central truth), but can have many points of application. This is a common mistake. People often insist that we can make the Bible say anything we want. That s not exactly true. When proper hermeneutics are applied, we can identify and understand the author s key points. 7. The parable should prompt us to think differently and to focus on living for the Kingdom of God as opposed to the kingdoms of this world. 7

11 Parable One: The Parable of the Old & New Wineskins This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 9:16-17 Mark 2:21-22 Luke 5:36-39 Mark 9:16-17 NKJV: 16 No one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; for the patch pulls away from the garment, and the tear is made worse. 17 Nor do they put new wine into old wineskins, or else the wineskins break, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But they put new wine into new wineskins, and both are preserved. Matt. 9:16-17 Introduction: Jesus was being questioned about fasting. Some of the disciples of John could not understand why they along with the Pharisees were fasting and Jesus disciples were not fasting. Since fasting was often associated with mourning, Jesus explained the disciples had no reason to mourn since the Bridegroom was with them. Jesus then shared the short parable concerning the patched garment and the new and old wineskin. Key Point #1: The Christian life is not a funeral, but a time of rejoicing in new life. Jesus did not come to patch up a broken world. He is not merely a patch on the old system. Patchwork is a temporary fix. Jesus 8

12 is not a temporary fix, He is the spiritual fullness that we need. He brings new life! Key Point #2: The Gospel (new wine) cannot be contained by The Law (old wineskin). The Law has never been capable to bring salvation. Instead, the Law is our tutor to show our need for Christ. Paul wrote, Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith (Gal. 3:24). Key Point #3: The Gospel (new wine) is preserved by God s grace (new wineskin). Grace is receiving something we don t deserve. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast (Eph. 2:8-9). If we are not careful, we will attempt to put new wine in old wineskin when our faith is merely to do good things or avoid bad things. Non-believers can do good things and avoid bad things. As Christians, we have been called to abide in Christ. When we abide in Christ it produces the character of God within our lives. When we attempt to produce the character of God without abiding in Jesus, we have developed a legalistic religion that is void of the Gospel. One Last Thought: Jesus did not come to repair a broken system, He came to give us spiritual wholeness. 9

13 Parable Two: The Parable of the Blind Leading the Blind This Parable Is Found In: Luke 6:39-45 Luke 6:39-45 NKJV: 39 And He spoke a parable to them: Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch? 40 A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher. 41 And why do you look at the speck in your brother s eye, but do not perceive the plank in your own eye? 42 Or how can you say to your brother, Brother, let me remove the speck that is in your eye, when you yourself do not see the plank that is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck that is in your brother s eye. 43 For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. Hidden Treasure 1: And 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 10

14 Hidden Treasure 2: A good man out of the abundance of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks Luke 6:45 Introduction: Jesus provides us with great lessons in ministry leadership. As Jesus teaches His disciples, He explains they cannot help guide others in their spiritual path if they cannot see clearly to lead the way. Jesus provides three illustrations that help us prepare in sharing the Gospel with others. Key Point #1: There is nothing wrong with helping a brother remove a speck, but we must first address our own faults before we have the ability to see clearly in helping others. As Christians, we are called to share the Gospel with others and help them see that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). However, we must first confess our own sinfulness before we can share the Gospel. Key Point #2: The fruit that we bear will always be reflective of our true character. As Christians, we are called to bear much fruit as well as lasting fruit (cf. John 15). We bear fruit by abiding in Christ. 11

15 Key Point #3: Whatever we have stored in our hearts, whether good or bad, will make itself known through the words of our mouth. When Christ is in our heart, we cannot help but speak of and proclaim the Gospel. One Last Thought: We cannot share the Gospel with others without first addressing our own sinfulness, our lives must then bear fruit through abiding in Christ, and then the Gospel will flow from our heart. 12

16 Parable Three: The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 7:24-29 Luke 6:46-49 Matthew 7:24-29 NKJV: 24 Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26 But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand: 27 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall. 28 And so it was, when Jesus had ended these sayings, that the people were astonished at His teaching, 29 for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. Hidden Treasure 3: Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. Matt. 7:24-25 Introduction: Early in Jesus ministry He delivered the Sermon on the Mount and 13

17 concludes with a parable that demonstrates the importance of beginning a life of faith properly. Ephesians 3:17-19 provide the same imagery of being rooted and grounded. Key Point #1: The foundation begins with Christ in our heart (cf. Eph. 3: [T]hat Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith is foundational to the Gospel. If the foundation does not begin with Christ, we will not be able to understand the love of God; which is beyond comprehension. Key Point #2: The foundation must be aligned with God s Word (cf. Matt. 7:24). It is not enough to know about God s Word, our lives must be aligned with God s Word through our obedience. Key Point #3: The foundation will be tested by the storms of life (cf. Matt. 7:25-27). The choices we make will either reinforce our foundation or they will weaken our foundation. When we make choices that are contrary to God s Word we are chipping away at our own foundation. We don t wake up one day and simply decide that today is the day that we are going to commit a sin that is going to destroy my family and my reputation. No, when that happens we have already been making 14

18 choices that have chipped away at the foundation. If we make enough poor choices that ignore God s Word, our foundation eventually crumbles underneath us. One Last Thought: It s not too late to develop a firm foundation in Christ. 15

19 Parable Four: The Parable of the Two Debtors This Parable Is Found In: Luke 7:40-43 Luke 7:40-43 NKJV: 40 And Jesus answered and said to him, Simon, I have something to say to you. So he said, Teacher, say it. 41 There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more? 43 Simon answered and said, I suppose the one whom he forgave more. And He said to him, You have rightly judged. Introduction: Jesus went to a Pharisee s house to have a meal. A woman with a bad reputation came to Jesus and brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, broke the seal, and washed Jesus feet with her tears, hair, and anointed Him with oil. Simon, the host, thought to himself that Jesus would have nothing to do with this woman if He were truly a prophet and knew what type of woman she was. It was while Simon the Pharisee was having these 16

20 thoughts that Jesus shared the parable with him. Thus proving He was indeed a prophet. Before addressing the interpretation of the parable, we must be careful not to conclude that the woman was saved by her actions. While her actions are commendable and an honest act of worship, it was her faith alone that she was saved (cf. Luke 7:50). Key Point #1: The amount of sin we have is less important than the awareness of our own sin. Simon was fully aware of the woman s apparent many sins, but blinded to his own. How many sins must a person commit to be considered a sinner? We must also remember that there are sins of commission (doing things we should not) and sins of omission (not doing things we should). Our sins of commission can often be seen by others, while our sins of omission are often only known by God. Key Point #2: Our response of worship is a reflection of our awareness of our own sin. When we realize our sinful and broken condition before a Holy God, we will respond in worship over our forgiveness. Do we assume that the woman is illustrated as the debtor who owed 500 denarii and Simon the debtor who owed 50 denarii? If so, perhaps Simon was not aware that his own indebtedness is greater than he believes. 17

21 One Last Thought: Forgiveness is a gift of grace, a debt paid by Jesus. 18

22 Parable Five: The Parable of the Lamp on a Stand This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 5:14-16 Mark 4:21-25 Luke 8:16-18 Mark 4:21-25 NKJV: 21 Also He said to them, Is a lamp brought to be put under a basket or under a bed? Is it not to be set on a lampstand? 22 For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear. Then He said to them, Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. Mark 4:21-25 Introduction: Wait a second. When you read the parable in one of the Gospel accounts, we notice that Jesus shared this parable in the Sermon on the Mount (cf. Matt. 5:14-16). When I read it in another, it is just the disciples in a home (cf. Mark 4:21-25). Which is it? The answer? Both! Jesus often taught the parables in a public setting and the disciples later asked for explanation in a more private setting (cf. Mark 4:34). The Parable of the Lamp on a Stand is a good example. 19

23 Jesus taught this parable during His Sermon on the Mount and again shares it with His disciples. Jesus explains that the disciples are the lamps that are to spread light so that the truth can be seen. However, a lamp cannot shed light without first being filled with oil. Key Point #1: We must listen closely to God s Word as it is the source of light to help us see truth. A lamp that has no oil or a lamp that has been placed under a basket or under a bed is useless. Key Point #2: We must proclaim God s Word to help others see the truth. As Christians, we have been called to proclaim the truth of God s Word, not to retreat into dark spaces. Key Point #3: We must remember that covering up the lamp does no good since one day all truth will be revealed. Don t be ashamed to speak the truth. You will face opposition in this world as you seek to spread light into dark spaces. However, be confident that truth prevails. Stand firm and be assured that one day all truth will be revealed. One Last Thought: We must continually spend time in God s Word, lest our lamp gives out. The more you hear, the more you will be given. 20

24 Parable Six: The Parable of the Strong Man This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 12:29 Mark 3:23-30 Luke 11:21-22 Mark 3:23-30 NKJV: 23 So He called them to Himself and said to them in parables: How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided, he cannot stand, but has an end. 27 No one can enter a strong man s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. And then he will plunder his house. Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation because they said, He has an unclean spirit. Hidden Treasure 4: And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. Mark 3:25 Introduction: Jesus had just healed a demon possessed man and the people debated concerning Jesus power over demons. The crowd believed that Jesus could be the Messiah for whom they have been waiting. The 21

25 religious leaders insisted that Jesus was summoning the power of Beelzebub. In response, Jesus exposes their illogical thinking and terrible theology. Key Point #1: The religious leaders thinking was illogical because Satan would be trying to defeat himself. Kentucky s motto is United We Stand, Divided We Fall. It is displayed on both the state flag and official seal of the Commonwealth. The idea of strength in unity is recognized in both Christian thought and secular environments. It is completely illogical that Jesus would cast out demons on behalf of Satan. However, if we look a little closer, Jesus did much more than point out their illogical thinking. Jesus addressed their blasphemous theology. Key Point #2: Jesus cautions the religious leaders not to blaspheme the Holy Spirit and His work. Jesus made it abundantly clear that God would forgive all sin, even sin against the very Son of God, but He will not forgive blasphemy of the Holy Spirit. These very religious leaders are going to sin against Jesus and have Him crucified. Yet Jesus will declare, Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do (Lk. 23:34). However, when someone rejects the conviction of the Holy Spirit unto salvation, they will not find forgiveness. When the religious leaders said, He [Jesus] has an 22

26 unclean spirit they were rejecting the Person and work of the Holy Spirit that was pointing people to Jesus! Key Point #3: So long as you are breathing and have the ability to respond in faith, there is hope of forgiveness. The fate of the unpardonable sin is not sealed until the Lord so decides. The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance 2 Peter 3:9. Satan does not want to lose the souls he believes to be his, but through Jesus death on the cross, Jesus bound Satan and made our salvation possible. One Last Thought: Satan may be strong, but Jesus is stronger. You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world 1 John 4:4. 23

27 Parable Seven: The Parable of the Sower This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 13:1-9, Mark 4:1-20 Luke 8:1-15 Matthew 13:1-9, NKJV: On the same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the sea. 2 And great multitudes were gathered together to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. 3 Then He spoke many things to them in parables, saying: Behold, a sower went out to sow. 4 And as he sowed, some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds came and devoured them. 5 Some fell on stony places, where they did not have much earth; and they immediately sprang up because they had no depth of earth. 6 But 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 sprang up and choked them. 8 But others fell on good ground and yielded a crop: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. 9 He who has ears to hear, let him hear! 18 Therefore hear the parable of the sower: 19 When anyone hears the word of the kingdom, and does not understand it, then the wicked one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside. 20 But 24

28 he who received the seed on stony places, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; 21 yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles. 22 Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. 23 But he who received seed on the good ground is he who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and produces: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Introduction: When Jesus provides the explanation for His own parable, there is no need for us to continue to search for the meaning of the parable. Such is the case with the Parable of the Sower. Key Point #1: The proclamation of God s Word is like planting seed in the hearts of the listeners. God s Word brings life. We are not responsible for how the heart responds. We are responsible for making sure the Gospel is proclaimed. How shall they hear and believe unless we share? Key Point #2: Some hearts hear God s Word, but Satan takes away the seed before it takes root with understanding (The Wayside). 25

29 If we are to battle Satan s tactics, we must present the Gospel in such a way that the hearer understands. Key Point #3: Some hearts hear God s Word, but their own hardened heart prevents the seed from taking root with obedience (Stony Places). We must remember that we are sinful and sometimes we don t need much (if any) influence to walk in our sinful flesh. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed James 1:14. Key Point #4: Some hearts hear God s Word, but their own love for the world chokes the seed and never produces fruit (Among Thorns). The measure of a heart that loves God over the world is found in our fruitfulness. We may say with our lips that we love Jesus more than the world, but our fruitfulness will speak louder. Key Point #5: Some hearts hear God s Word, and receive it with understanding and obedience that produces and bears fruit (Good Soil). We often think of fruitfulness as bearing the fruit of the Spirit (e.g. love, joy, peace, patience, etc.). However, this does not seem to be the context here. Apples bear more apples. Bananas bear more bananas. Therefore, Christians must bear more Christians: some will bear a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. The point is that the heart that 26

30 is submitted to Christ will produce more Christians. One Last Thought: Fruit is the evidence of authentic salvation. Have you been sowing the seed of the Gospel in the hearts of others? 27

31 Parable Eight: The Parable of the Growing Seed This Parable Is Found In: Mark 4:26-29 Mark 4:26-29 NKJV: 26 And He said, The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground, 27 and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how. 28 For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. 29 But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come. Introduction: Jesus has already given the Parable of the Sower and will certainly share other parables concerning seed. This parable is a reminder that we are not alone in our labor of harvesting God s Word. Key Point #1: Our role is to proclaim the Gospel to others. God s role is to cause the seed to grow. The work of a farmer is a labor of faith. He is largely dependent upon God doing His part (v. 4:26). Proclaiming the Gospel is a partnership with the Lord in producing the harvest. Key Point #2: Our role requires patience, but it does not require an understanding of the processes. 28

32 The work of a farmer is a labor of patience. It is hard work and the results are not seen immediately. The farmer does not sit back and wait for God to do the rest. He continues to care for the land in anticipation of the sprouts, the stalk and leaves, and a head of grain. We may not understand the process that God uses, but we wait patiently and continue to work as He fulfills His role (v. 4:27-28). We cannot see what God is doing within the hearts of men, but we must be patient as the Holy Spirit works. Key Point #3: Our role continues through the harvest. The work of a farmer is a labor of enduring. The farmer is heavily invested and the time has come to employ the sickle. At the appropriate time, God s Word will bring forth a harvest and we must be ready then too! One Last Thought: It is a great mystery how God works within the hearts of man to produce the harvest, but we know He chooses to involve us in the process. 29

33 Parable Nine: The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares (Opposition to the Kingdom, Part 1) This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 13:24-30, Matthew 13:24-30, NKJV: 24 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: The kingdom of heaven is like a man who 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 grain had sprouted and produced a crop, then the tares also appeared. 27 So the servants of the owner came and said to him, Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares? 28 He said to them, An enemy has done this. The servants said to him, Do you want us then to go and gather them up? 29 But he said, No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. 30 Let both grow together until the harvest, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn. 36 Then Jesus sent the multitude away and went into the house. And His disciples came to Him, saying, Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field. 37 He answered and said to them: He who sows the good seed is the Son of Man. 38 The field is the world, 30

34 the good seeds are the sons of the kingdom, but the tares are the sons of the wicked one. 39 The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels. 40 Therefore as the tares are gathered and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of this age. 41 The Son of Man will send out His angels, and they will gather out of His kingdom all things that offend, and those who practice lawlessness, 42 and will cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 43 Then the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears to hear, let him hear! Matthew 13:24-30, Introduction: As we have seen in the Parable of the Sower, Satan is actively at work to prevent the seed of God s Word from taking root (cf. Matt. 13:1-9, 18-23). However, even though Satan is unsuccessful at times and the seed falls to good soil, it does not mean that Satan has given up. No, instead he will attempt to corrupt the good seed. The Parable of the Wheat and Tares (false Christians), the Parable of the Mustard Seed (false purpose), and the Parable of the Leaven (false doctrine) are all examples of Satan s schemes to corrupt authentic followers of Christ. 31

35 Key Point #1: Satan has counterfeits planted in the rows of our pews. The Bible makes it clear that there are some who are false brethren (cf. 1 Cor. 11:26). These false Christians have believed a false gospel (cf. Gal. 1:6-9). Some of these false Christians have even made their way into leadership roles and have become false teachers and false prophets (cf. 1 Jn. 4:1-6). Key Point #2: We must have a spirit of discernment to know the difference between what is true and what is false. We must stay alert and not be influenced by the tares in our midst. There are some great preachers on television and there are false teachers on television that teach a false gospel. Pastors have a responsibility to equip their congregation with the spiritual discernment to recognize the tares, not merely provide a list of tares (i.e. avoid these false teachers ). Key Point #3: Allow God to handle the tares in His timing. Don t become so consumed by pointing out the faults of the tares that you forget to nurture the wheat in anticipation of the harvest. One Last Thought: God has planted you where He believes you will be successful to sow more seed and bear fruit. 32

36 Parable Ten: The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Opposition to the Kingdom, Part 2) This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 13:31-32 Mark 4:30-32 Luke 13:18-19 Matthew 13:31-32 NKJV: 31 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, 32 which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches. Matthew 13:31-32 Introduction: Since Jesus did not provide a direct explanation of this parable, we are left to examine the surrounding parables to help us understand it more completely. It is safe to suggest that Jesus continues to illustrate Satan s schemes to corrupt the authentic Christian and Christ s Church. Key Point #1: The church will begin with a seemingly small and insignificant number. The mustard seed was a symbol of both small in size and insignificant. Yet it produces a rather large plant. Don t allow Satan to convince you that your church, children s ministry, or student ministry are too small to make an impact. 33

37 Key Point #2: The church should desire to be a world-changer not a world power. The church does not exist to grow in material possessions and political influence. Trees are often a symbol of world power (cf. Dan. 4:10-12; Ezek. 17:22-24). Christ did not establish His church to become a world power, but a world-changer. Satan wants to give the church a false purpose. Key Point #3: When the church focuses more on becoming a world power rather than a world-changer, it will attract false teachers (i.e. birds of the air come nest in its branches ). Satan is like a bird who nests in the branches and watches for opportunity to snatch away the seed that was sown in the hearts of men (cf. Matt. 13:19). If Satan can get Christians to seek political influence and world power through the church, then he will be successful in distracting us from accomplishing our God-given mission. There are many suggestions for who the birds may represent: Gentiles, sinners and tax collectors, or false teachers. Regardless, the idea of a bird nesting in the branches of a mustard plant is unusual. One Last Thought: Don t allow Satan to give you a false purpose of the church. 34

38 Parable Eleven: The Parable of the Leaven (Opposition to the Kingdom, Part 3) This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 13:33 Luke 13:20-21 Matthew 13:33 NKJV: 33 Another parable He spoke to them: The kingdom of heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened. Introduction: Leaven (i.e. yeast) doesn t have a good reputation in Scripture. It is the symbol of evil. Leaven is a picture of hypocrisy, false teaching, false doctrine, carnal behavior, malice, wickedness, and compromise with the world. Yet some insist that the leaven here is a symbol of the spread of the Gospel. It does seem strange. Why would leaven be associated with the kingdom of God? Here s why: In the previous parables, Satan has attempted to corrupt the church through false Christians (tares), and a false purpose (tree), and now he wants to corrupt the church with false doctrine (leaven). Jesus explicitly shares that leaven is false doctrine (cf. Matt. 16:5-12). Key Point #1: Leaven is a fungus that corrupts the church. A little leaven leavens the whole lump Gal. 5:9. While the idiom One bad apple spoils the whole 35

39 bunch is up for debate, there is no question that leaven corrupts the whole. The Apostle Paul declares that the smallest amount of false doctrine can bring corruption to the whole (Gal. 5; Eph. 4:22; 1 Cor. 5:6; 15:33; Jam. 3:6). Key Point #2: Leaven is a fungus that defiles the church. As believers, we are to purge out the old leaven (i.e. false teachings) from the church. We have an unleavened bread of sincerity and truth that are the Word of God (cf. 1 Cor. 5:6-8). Key Point #3: Leaven is a fungus that puffs up the church. As believers, we must make sure that our behaviors do not grow into a bloated boasting of sin (1 Cor. 5). When we think we know what is best, our knowledge does not edify the church it puffs up the church (1 Cor. 8). One Last Thought: How do we purge the church of leaven? Test all things; hold fast what is good 1 Thess. 5:21. 36

40 Parable Twelve: The Parable of the Hidden Treasure (The Search for Souls, Part 1) This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 13:44 Matthew 13:44 NKJV: 44 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Hidden Treasure 5: Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Matt. 13:44 Introduction: The common interpretation of this parable is that the sinner finds Christ and gives up all that he possesses to gain Him and be saved. While it is true that the value of our salvation is a treasure worth more than all our possessions, there appears to be more going on in this passage. Consider this Key Point #1: Christ is the one seeking treasure. What if Christ were the one seeking treasure instead of us? What if He were the one who saw value in His people and was willing to leave His heavenly glory for us? Key Point #2: You cannot purchase salvation. 37

41 We do not purchase the field in order to gain Christ. For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast Eph. 2:8-9. Key Point #3: Jesus death on the cross purchased the whole field. Jesus didn t just buy the hidden treasure; He bought the whole field! He is the propitiation (satisfaction) for our sins, and not ours only but also for the sins of the whole world 1 Jn. 2:2. The idea of redemption is about the price Jesus paid to bring us back into relationship with Himself. The death of Christ on the cross was sufficient for every sin ever committed or will ever be committed. One Last Thought: What if Israel is the hidden treasure and we are included because He bought the whole field (cf. Ex. 19:5; Jn. 11:51)! 38

42 Parable Thirteen: The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price (The Search for Souls, Part 2) This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 13:45-46 Matthew 13:45-46 NKJV: 45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, 46 who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Introduction: You re a step ahead of me! Yes, Jesus is the merchant. If Jesus is the man who bought the field and if Israel is the hidden treasure, then you might ask, Where am I in the parable? You are the pearl. Key Point #1: Jesus (the merchant) is seeking beautiful pearls (that s us). It s unfortunate that we don t see the value of our soul the same way Jesus does. He compares you to beautiful and expensive pearls. You are of great worth and Christ paid a great price for you: His death. Key Point #2: The pearl is the product of suffering. The pearl is unique because it is the only listed gem that comes from pain and suffering. A pearl begins its slow process from a tiny grain of sand that has slipped underneath the muscle inside the oyster s shell. The oyster endures the irritating texture by trying to coat the sand 39

43 with a substance called nacre. Over time, the oyster will continue to place multiple coatings upon the tiny grain of sand. Like a pearl, the church is the product of suffering. Christ died for the church and His suffering on the cross made possible her birth. Key Point #3: Christ would have made the purchase even if you were the only one. Notice, when he had found one pearl of great price... (Matt. 13:46a). Jesus would have paid the price of dying on the cross for you even if you were the only pearl of great price He found. One Last Thought: While the salvific work of the cross paid the price for all and is available to everyone, it is only applied by grace through faith. 40

44 Parable Fourteen: The Parable of the Dragnet (The Search for Souls, Part 3) This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 13:47-50 Matthew 13:47-50 NKJV: 47 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet that was cast into the sea and gathered some of every kind, 48 which, when it was full, they drew to shore; and they sat down and gathered the good into vessels, but threw the bad away. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, separate the wicked from among the just, 50 and cast them into the furnace of fire. There will be wailing and gnashing of teeth. 51 Jesus said to them, Have you understood all these things? They said to Him, Yes, Lord. 52 Then He said to them, Therefore every scribe instructed concerning the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old. Introduction: Jesus concludes His threefold search for souls with a dragnet. Key Point #1: We have been invited to join Jesus in His search for souls. We have been given the task of proclaiming the Gospel to all who 41

45 will listen. We are fishers of men who cast nets. Key Point #2: The proclamation of the Gospel does not guarantee that all who hear will be saved. The dragnet will catch fish of all types. When the nets are pulled to shore, we will discover that some were good and some were bad. Key Point #3: The goodness is determined by the presence of Jesus righteousness in place of our own. There is nothing intrinsically good about ourselves. We are labeled good when the righteousness of Christ covers our own righteousness. If then we have Jesus righteousness, we are good. If we do not have Jesus righteousness we are bad and will be thrown away. There is no reason to be thrown away. We must simply respond to the Gospel. One Last Thought: Jesus is the householder who has identified you as His prized possessions: hidden treasure (old) and pearls (new). 42

46 Parable Fifteen: The Parable of the Scribe This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 13:51-52 Matthew 13:51-52 NKJV: 51 Jesus said to them, Have you understood all these things? They said to Him, Yes, Lord. 52 Then He said to them, Therefore every scribe instructed concerning the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old. Introduction: Didn t we just read this one? but there is more here. 43 Yes, The scribes were a group that began under the leadership of Ezra. They had a threefold function: preserve the law, study the law, and apply the law. Through the years, the scribes fell into the trap of only concerning themselves with preserving the law that their practices had become meaningless traditions. Key Point #1: Like the scribes, we are students of God s Word. As Christians, we must never stop learning from God s Word. The more we study, the more we will understand the things concerning the kingdom of heaven.

47 Key Point #2: Like scribes, we are to apply God s Word to our lives. We are called to apply God s Word to our daily living. But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does James 1: Key Point #3: Like scribes, we are to preserve God s Word by sharing it with others. Our role of preserving God s Word has less to do with preserving the pages as much as preserving the teaching by passing it on to others. One Last Thought: The treasure of God s Word will bring new insights based on old truths. 44

48 Parable Sixteen: The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant This Parable Is Found In: Matthew 18:21-35 Matthew 18:21-35 NKJV: 21 Then Peter came to Him and said, Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times? 22 Jesus said to him, I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. 23 Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 And when he had begun to settle accounts, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But as he was not able to pay, his master commanded that he be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and that payment be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down before him, saying, Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all. 27 Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt. 28 But that servant went out and found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hands on him and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me what you owe! 29 So his fellow servant fell down at his feet and begged him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay you all. 30 And he would not, but went and threw him into 45

49 prison till he should pay the debt. 31 So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done. 32 Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. 33 Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you? 34 And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. 35 So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses. Introduction: Peter made three mistakes that Jesus addresses through the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant. We too can make the same mistakes. First, Peter did not see himself as a debtor. He was confident that he would be the one who would be sinned against. Second, Peter placed a limit on the number of times he should forgive others. Third, Peter thought he was being gracious by offering more than the standard three to four times (cf. Amos 1:3-13). Key Point #1: Don t just seek grace and patience, demonstrate grace and patience. In life, you will be both the debtor and the creditor. The debtor who seeks grace and shows none when 46

50 they are the creditor has lost integrity. Key Point #2: Don t place a limit on your forgiveness of others. Forgiveness does not keep track of wrongs. When we sin and ask the Lord to forgive us, He doesn t keep a ledger of how many times He has already forgiven you. Since God was patient with us, it should prompt us to be patient and forgiving with others. If not, we may not understand our own indebtedness to God. Key Point #3: The standard for determining how many times we must forgive is not found in the Law, but found in Jesus. While the Rabbinic standard of forgiveness was three to four, Jesus standard of forgiveness is limitless. Jesus never lowers the standard; He always raises it! One Last Thought: When we experience forgiveness in humility, it should move our hearts to forgive. The forgiveness or lack of will reflect our own relationship with God the Father. 47

51 Parable Seventeen: The Parable of the Good Samaritan This Parable Is Found In: Luke 10:25-37 Luke 10:25-37 NKJV: 25 And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? 26 He said to him, What is written in the law? What is your reading of it? 27 So he answered and said, You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself. 28 And He said to him, You have answered rightly; do this and you will live. 29 But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, And who is my neighbor? 30 Then Jesus answered and said: A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31 Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32 Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other 48

52 side. 33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion. 34 So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. 35 On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you. 36 So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves? 37 And he said, He who showed mercy on him. Then Jesus said to him, Go and do likewise. Hidden Treasure 6 So he answered and said, You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself. Luke 10:27 Introduction: The Parable of the Good Samaritan is one of the most familiar parables in all of Scripture. It has inspired paintings, sculptures, poetry, movies, charitable organizations, and even hospitals bear the name. The phrase Good Samaritan is even used in secular environments. The commonly accepted meaning of the Good Samaritan is someone who helps a stranger. 49