Parables in the Modern World

This 1991 series, Parables in the Modern World, explores how the timeless stories of Jesus speak directly to contemporary life. While parables may seem simple on the surface, they carry layers of meaning that reveal the heart of discipleship—what it means to live faithfully in a world often at odds with God’s ways. Through careful study, this series shows how parables expose human pride, teach humility, and inspire hope in the kingdom of God, offering lessons that remain as urgent today as they were in the first century.

Why Parables?

The series opens by considering why Jesus so often chose to teach in parables. These stories were designed to reveal truth to those eager to hear, while confounding the self-righteous. With examples such as the sower and the good Samaritan, this class shows how parables challenge us to dig deeper, inviting us to listen with humility and live with compassion.

Parables of the Kingdom of God

This class examines the collection of parables in Matthew 13—stories like the mustard seed, leaven, hidden treasure, and pearl of great price. Each one highlights the surprising, often hidden, ways God’s kingdom grows and calls for total dedication from those who seek it. The lesson emphasizes that the kingdom is worth every sacrifice.

Parables on Being Lost

Focusing on Luke 15, this study looks at the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son. Far more than tales of loss, these parables reveal God’s joy in recovery and restoration. The emphasis is on reconciliation and forgiveness, reminding disciples to share in the Father’s compassion and not in the Pharisees’ narrow judgments.

Parables on Judgement

Here, attention turns to parables like the unforgiving servant, the laborers in the vineyard, and the dragnet. These stories confront human tendencies toward pride, resentment, and selective mercy, teaching that God’s justice is both fair and merciful. The call is clear: disciples must forgive and serve faithfully, leaving ultimate judgment in God’s hands.

Parables on Last Things

This lecture explores parables that look toward the end times and Christ’s return, including the wise and foolish virgins and the talents. They emphasize the importance of readiness, vigilance, and the wise use of what God has entrusted to us. The lesson urges believers to live each day with watchfulness, knowing the return of Christ may come unexpectedly.

Parables of the Fig Tree

The series concludes with the fig tree and related parables, which point to signs of the times and the certainty of God’s unfolding plan. These parables remind disciples to discern the season, remain alert, and take comfort in the assurance that God’s promises will come to pass.

This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.