Why did Jesus talk in parables?

This question is one of three questions which I chose to answer as a group when we met on Monday night. The previous two questions (Why did Jesus keep his message secret? and Why did Jesus answer questions with more questions?) and this one have a great deal of similarity. Entering into relationship and avoiding shallow teaching are part of my response to this question.

A parable is a story or narrative. I think that this is an important part of why Jesus taught in parables. A story is not a set of rules, it is not scolding and may or may not include a particular individual in the story. Part of the richness of parables is that we may find ourselves in different parts of the story in different times in our lives. The application of the story to our lives is not handed to us directly, but instead left to our consideration and the work of the Holy Spirit. Thus, a single parable can be God’s word to different people in different ways at different times.

Jesus teaching in parables invites the reader or the hearer to find herself or himself in the middle of that story. One’s current situation is placed in a different light and perhaps given a new perspective. This is like the Christian life – we are invited to live as a part of God’s story for all person. As we seek to live into God’s story for creation, we may find a fresh perspective on our daily responsibilities and interactions. In parables, we have a chance to connect our story with God’s story.

• What is your experience of parables?

This is part of a series of posts responding to questions raised in The Secret Message of Jesus – A Book Discussion at Resurrection.

Other Resources:

• Bible study offers look at Jesus’ parables – Presentation from the 2006 Kansas West Annual Conference
• Parables produce twisted sermons – Presentation from the 2006 Kansas West Annual Conference
• Parables at Wikipedia – General information about parables