Studying Parables Overview

Before interpreting a parable, consider the surrounding text (verses, chapter, section, or even the entire book) for context.

Determine the central message or point the parable conveys.

Consult commentaries like 'The Parables of Jesus' by Arlen Hultgren to gain insights into the parable.

Before consulting commentaries, develop your own understanding of the parable's main point based on your reading.

A widely recognized commentary by Arlen Hultgren that offers comprehensive analysis of parables.

Commentaries may include historical background, cultural context, word studies, grammatical points, and insights into customs relevant to the parable.

Use commentaries as a tool to confirm or refine your own interpretation of the parable's main point.

Commentaries provide a way to delve deeper into the meaning of parables by presenting diverse perspectives and scholarly insights.

The central idea or message of the parable.

Involves examining the meaning of words and phrases to gain a deeper understanding.

Seeking the answer to a request or a question related to the parable.

A type of literary device that uses a simple story to convey a deeper meaning.

The man's persistence in asking for help.

A feeling of shame or embarrassment due to social pressure.

A key aspect of the context for understanding the parable in Luke 11.

The man's sense of responsibility and obligation to help his neighbor.

Exploring different interpretations and perspectives.

The man's desire to maintain a positive image in the community.

When studying a parable, ensure your interpretation aligns with the overall message of the Bible. If a different perspective provides a more accurate understanding, be open to accepting it.

Focus on understanding the main point of a parable before diving into the details. It's like fitting Cinderella's foot into the slipper, the main point should match the context.

Look for questions posed in the context surrounding a parable. The question may reveal what the parable is addressing.

Sometimes, a verse directly concludes a parable, summarizing its main message. It's a clear indicator of what the parable is teaching.

Even though the Bible is straightforward, learning to understand its message takes time and effort, especially for beginners.

The Bible is incredibly clear and understandable, especially when we use good principles of interpretation.

God has made His Word accessible to those who study it diligently. He has revealed His message through His servants who wrote the Scriptures.

Even after years of study, we should remain humble and recognize that there's always more to learn. The quest for deeper understanding should never cease.

Always strive to continue studying the Bible and never rest on what we think we already know. There's always more to discover.

When interpreting a parable, the main point should address the situation surrounding it. This reveals Jesus' relevance to real-life issues.

We should trust that Jesus' parables are relevant and meaningful. They were not spoken casually but with intention.

Think of tools that help you achieve a goal. Certain elements like questions, conclusions, repetitions, and illustrations help us understand the main idea.

Observe the repetition of words or phrases within a parable. It can reveal hidden meanings and reinforce the main point.

Illustrations within parables can be powerful tools for understanding. They offer visual representations that deepen the meaning.

Paying attention to the question asked in a parable's context can help us identify the main point.

A pattern in stories that shows a contrast between two contrasting viewpoints or situations, often highlighting a particular theme.

Using the context of a parable, like its surrounding verses or the overall message of the book, to understand its meaning.

The five foolish virgins in the parable represent people who are not prepared for the coming of Jesus.

The five wise virgins represent people who are prepared for the coming of Jesus.

Jesus' parables are often set in a specific time and place, which helps to understand their meaning.

Learning about different cultures and customs helps to make sense of Jesus' parables.

The elder brother in the parable of the prodigal son represents someone who feels superior to others.

The prodigal son in the parable represents someone who has strayed away from God.

The main point, central idea or message of the parable.

The Pharisees and scribes in Jesus' parables represent a group who were critical and judgmental.

The lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son, all represent things of value that are found.

The parables are often designed to challenge our assumptions about God's love and grace.

The parables were told in everyday language and situations, making them relatable to the people of Jesus' time.

The main point of a parable is often implied, requiring the listener to think critically and draw their own conclusions.

This is the background information, like customs or history, that helps us understand a parable better.

The surrounding text, like other verses, chapters, or even the whole book, that helps explain the meaning of a parable.

The main idea or message that a parable wants to convey.

The specific situation or problem that the parable addresses. It helps us understand the main point of the story.

To understand the problem being presented in a parable, you need to identify the issue that the author is highlighting. It could be a specific person, a conflict, or a moral dilemma.

The main point of a parable often relates to a specific concept or truth that the author wants to emphasize. This is the central message that the parable aims to teach.

A small section of text that repeats a similar theme or idea. It can help you identify recurring themes or key messages within a text.

A parable can provide insight into the motivations and actions of the characters involved. It helps us understand why they do what they do and what their goals might be.

When analyzing a parable, consider the cultural context in which the story is set. This can help you understand the norms, beliefs, and customs of the time.

A parable can reveal the author's beliefs and values, which are often reflected in the messages and lessons conveyed in the story.

Understanding the language of the parable, including the use of figures of speech and symbolism, can provide deeper meaning and clarity to the message.

Exploring the historical background, including the time period and events surrounding the story, can provide context and shed light on the parable's meaning.

A parable can be seen as an allegory, where the characters and events represent deeper moral or spiritual truths. Understanding these symbolic representations can enrich the meaning of the parable.

A parable often uses comparison to illustrate a point. By understanding the comparison being made, you can gain a deeper understanding of the parable's meaning.

A parable can provide an ethical framework or set of moral principles that guide the reader's understanding of the story's message.

A parable can convey a specific message regarding faith or spirituality. Examining the spiritual themes can unravel the deeper meaning of the parable.

A practice of using scripture references to gain a deeper understanding of a passage by comparing it to other related verses.

The practice of considering the setting, historical background, cultural context, and writer's intent to understand a passage.

The tendency to interpret scripture based on one's own culture rather than the culture it was written in.

The understanding that the Bible is one unified narrative, where different parts contribute to a single overarching message.

Applying general principles from one part of scripture to understand another relevant passage.

Interpreting scripture by comparing it to similar accounts or themes throughout the Bible.

The practice of interpreting scripture based on its literal meaning, taking into account historical and cultural context.

The practice of interpreting scripture by considering its overall message and applying it to present-day life.