1. Introduction
A parable is a story used to communicate a teaching. Jesus often used parables when teaching people about the kingdom of God and other spiritual truths.
A parable may draw on familiar experiences, such as farming, family relationships, business, or everyday interactions. These familiar situations help communicate a deeper lesson.
When studying a parable, we should pay attention to why Jesus told it, how His listeners responded, and whether the passage provides an explanation.
2. Scripture Reading
Luke 10:30 (KJV)
And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.
This is the beginning of Jesus’ parable commonly called the Good Samaritan.
Jesus tells the story in response to a question about who qualifies as a neighbour. The purpose of the story becomes clearer when we read the conversation surrounding it.
Luke 10:36–37 (KJV)
Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?
And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.
These verses identify the practical response Jesus calls for: showing mercy to others.
3. Understanding the Teaching
When studying a parable, follow these steps:
- Read the conversation before the parable. Identify the question or situation that prompted Jesus to tell the story.
- Read the whole parable. Do not base your interpretation on one detail taken alone.
- Identify the main issue. Ask what truth the story addresses.
- Look at the conclusion. Jesus or the listener may state the lesson explicitly.
- Apply the teaching. Consider how the message should influence your understanding or conduct.
Not every object, character, or action in a parable necessarily represents a separate spiritual truth. We should avoid inventing hidden meanings for details that the passage does not explain.
4. Practical Example
A student reads the parable of the Good Samaritan and focuses only on the road between Jerusalem and Jericho.
The student then tries to assign a spiritual meaning to every place mentioned.
However, the surrounding conversation and Jesus’ conclusion direct attention to showing mercy to one’s neighbour.
The student should begin with the point Jesus actually makes instead of constructing an elaborate interpretation unsupported by the passage.
5. Remember
To understand a parable, identify why it was told, read its full context, and pay attention to its main message and conclusion. Do not invent hidden meanings for every detail.