why jesus used parables in his teaching (matthew 13:10)
Introduction:
1. In this verse the Lord's disciples asked Him a question. 2. In our lesson we are examining passages that explain "why Jesus used parables in His teaching." 3. Let us begin by pointing out that . . . Discussion: I. TEACHING WAS THE LORD'S PRIMARY WORK
A. This is emphasized in Matthew 4:23; 9:35. B. People responded to the Lord's teaching in various ways. 1. A positive response is mentioned in Matthew 7:28-29. 2. A negative response is mentioned in Matthew 21:45-46. C. As Jesus taught throughout Palestine, He used a variety of techniques. D. We learn from Matthew 13:34 that the Lord often used parables. E. The Lord's primary work was teaching, and He often used parables. II. LET US DETERMINE WHAT A PARABLE IS
A. "Parable" comes from a word that refers to "a placing of one thing beside another." B. Parables are basically illustrations; however, they appear in different forms: 1. comparisons a. Jesus compared spiritual matters to things familiar to His audience. b. Ex.: "The kingdom of heaven is like unto . . ." [leaven, mustard seed, etc.] 2. short stories -- "the prodigal son" 3. examples from nature and various occupations [farming, fishing, etc.]. III. LET US CONSIDER 3 REASONS WHY JESUS USED PARABLES
A. First, Jesus used parables to teach "the word" (Mark 4:33). 1. Jesus came to reveal the message the Father gave Him (John 12:49). 2. Jesus often used parables as He communicated the Father's will. B. Second, Jesus used parables to reveal the truth and to conceal the truth (Matthew 13:11-17). 1. People listened to Jesus with different motives. a. Some people wanted to learn the will of God. b. Others were looking for something to use against Him. 2. Through His parables, Jesus: a. revealed the truth to those who desired to know it b. concealed the truth from those who lacked spiritual discernment. 3. Notice how Jesus referred to a statement in Isaiah to illustrate His point. C. Third, by using parables as He did, Jesus fulfilled an Old Testament prophecy (Matthew 13:34-35; Psalm 78:1-2). IV. GUIDELINES TO FOLLOW WHEN STUDYING PARABLES
A. Notice the question Jesus asked in Mark 4:13b. B. Following certain guidelines will help us properly understand the Lord's parables. 1. Carefully consider the context in which the parable appears. 2. Learn the main theme for each parable. a. Pay sufficient attention to the important details in the parable. b. Do not try to make all the details mean something. 3. Consider each parable in light of other Scriptures -- do not develop an interpretation that contradicts other passages. 4. Jesus gave some good advice in Luke 8:18 when He said, "Take heed therefore how ye hear." Conclusion:
1. The Scriptures answer the disciples' question in Matthew 13:10. 2. As we study the Lord's parables, let us "see with our eyes," let us "hear with our ears," and let us "understand with our hearts" so we can know His will.
