A look at the Parables of Jesus

in
Thirty Five Lessons

Edited By David Webb

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 Table of Contents

Lessons Page

Introduction to The Parables of Jesus 1

1. Defining the Kingdom of Heaven 5
2. The Parable of the Sower 7
3. The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares 10
4. The Parable of the Growing Seed 13
5. The Parable of the Mustard Seed 16
6. The Parable of the Leaven 18
7. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure 20
8. The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price 22
9. The Parable of the Dragnet 24
10. The Parable of the Householder 26
11. The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant 28
12. The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard 31
13. The Parable of the Two Sons 34
14. The Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers 36
15. The Parable of the Wedding Feast 38
16. The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins 41
17. The Parable of the Talents 43
18. The Parable of the Two Debtors 46
19. The Parable of the Good Samaritan 48
20. The Parable of the Friend at Midnight 51
21. The Parable of the Rich Fool 54
22. The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree 57
23. The Parable of Taking the Lowest Place 59
24. The Parable of the Great Supper 61
25. The Parable of the Lost Sheep 63
26. The Parable of the Lost Coin 65
27. The Parable of the Lost Son (the Prodigal Son) 67
28. The Parable of the Unjust Steward 70
29. The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus 73
30. The Parable of the Unprofitable Servants 75
31. The Parable of the Persistent Widow 78
32. The Parable of the Tax Collector and the Pharisee 80
33. The Parable of the Minas 83
34. The Parables of Jesus - Conclusion 85

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 The Parables of Jesus

Introduction
The word parable is a transliteration of the Greek word “parabole” (para-bow-LAY), and
comes from two Greek words, “para” (translated “beside”) and “ballein” (translated “to
throw”). Literally, the word parable means “to throw beside,” or “to place beside, or to
place together for the purpose of comparing, or making a comparison.” They can
usually be identified by the use of the word “like,” as in Jesus’ statement, “The kingdom
of heaven is like a mustard seed,” or “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven” (Matthew
13:31, 33). In these examples, Jesus was comparing the kingdom of heaven to the
attributes or characteristics of a mustard seed and to leaven (yeast). Some have
defined the word parable as “a story by which something real in life is used as a means
of presenting a moral thought.” Others have said a parable “puts the known next to
the unknown so that we may learn.” They are usually a story or a narrative taken from
nature or from everyday human experiences. Perhaps the simplest definition of all is
that a parable is an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.

The characters in parables do only those things we would expect anyone to do in the
normal course of events – such as a sower going out into a field to sow seed, or a
merchant going to the marketplace to find costly pearls. The characters in parables are
not superhuman, nor do they perform superhuman feats. The natural events described
in parables are also those we would expect to witness in nature – such as seed sown by
a sower falling on various kinds of soil, or a mustard seed growing into a large tree, or a
drag net bringing all kinds of fish. Parables are not allegories, fables, myths, or
proverbs. In fact, there is a major difference between these forms of story-telling. For
example, an allegory is simply defined as a figurative application or illustration taken
from real historical facts or events – as in the allegory of Abraham’s two sons (Galatians
4:22-5:4). On the other hand, Parables speak of supposed events that never really
occurred. Fables and myths are stories that are fantasy or larger-than-life. A good
example from the Old Testament is the fable of trees that choose a king (Judges 9:8-
15). Proverbs are defined as short statements that contain a complete and valuable
thought, or short, wise sayings that contain practical truths that are learned by
experiences or through observation. Sometimes proverbs and parables are confused,
as in the so-called “Parable of the Fig Tree” (Matthew 24:32), which is actually a
proverb – a comparative truth learned by experience and observation.

Parables are among the oldest and most common forms of teaching. Even the Old
Testament contains many parables. One classic example is Nathan’s parable to David
about the poor man with one little ewe lamb (2 Samuel 12:1-10). During His earthly
ministry, Jesus used this medium of teaching almost constantly, and for a very good
purpose. It seems Jesus wanted to teach one part of the crowd that constantly
followed Him, while intentionally preventing the other part from understanding what
was being said. In other words, the main purpose for Jesus teaching in parables was to
conceal the truth from those whose hearts were already prejudiced and hardened.

“And the disciples came and said to Him, ‘Why do You speak to them in
parables?’ He answered and said to them, ‘Because it has been given to
you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has
not been given. For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will
have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be
taken away from him. Therefore I speak to them in parables, because
seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they
understand. And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says:
“Hearing you will hear and shall not understand, and seeing you will see
and not perceive; for the hearts of this people have grown dull. Their
ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should
see with their eyes and hear with their ears, lest they should understand
with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them.” But blessed are
your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear; for assuredly, I say to
you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see,
and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.’”
(Matthew 13:10-17)

The disciples of the Lord were blessed to learn “the mysteries of the kingdom of
heaven” because they had the right attitude toward Jesus and His teaching. But those
whose hearts had been hardened by their own wickedness and rebellion were kept from
understanding the parables. Essentially, Jesus was attempting to separate truth-
seekers from curiosity-seekers. Those of His disciples who were genuinely seeking to
know the truth so that they might obey it would ask Jesus, “explain to us the meaning
of the parable.” He would then explain the meaning of the parable to them privately
(cf. Mark 4:33-34). The hearts of these disciples were open and receptive to the truths
taught by Jesus. Therefore, Jesus said, “For whoever has [an honest and receptive
heart], to him more will be given, and he will have abundance [by virtue of the fact that
they will learn and apply the teachings of Jesus in their lives]” (Matthew 13:12a). But
those who, for most part, were not interested in obeying the teachings of Jesus would
hear the parables, fail to grasp their meaning, and simply brush them off. This is why
Jesus added, “but whoever does not have [an honest and receptive heart], even what
he has will be taken away from him [by virtue of the fact that he will fail to make
application of Jesus’ teaching to his life] (Matthew 13:12b). The reason these hearers
failed to grasp the meaning of the parables of Jesus is because “the hearts of this
people have grown dull. Their ears are hard of hearing, and their eyes they have
closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, lest they should
understand with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them.” (Matthew 13:15).
They had closed their own eyes and ears from receiving the truth.

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However, there is another reason why Jesus taught in parables, and that was to reveal
heavenly truths to just a select group of people – whose hearts were open and
receptive to these truths. Jesus was taking the known (earthly truths contained in the
parables) and using them to explain the unknown (the greater heavenly truths). Only
then would they be able to make a spiritual application or gain spiritual insight from the
parables of Jesus. Repeatedly, the Savior said, “the kingdom of heaven is like.” He
would then proceed to draw a comparison between the known and the unknown
“mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.”

But there is also another reason why Jesus taught in parables, and that was to appeal
to the hearer’s sense of justice before they realized the parable applied to them.
Nathan did this with David (2 Samuel 12:1-10). But Jesus used this approach often
when confronting His enemies. The Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Matthew
21:33-46) is a classic example. Jesus spoke of wicked vinedressers who refused to pay
the owner of the vineyard what he was owed. After sending several emissaries to these
corrupt vinedressers, the owner sent his son, whom the vinedressers eventually killed
out of bitter envy and hatred. As the chief priests and Pharisees began hearing this
parable, they would have begun to side against the unjust and wicked vinedressers.
But when the parable was concluded, the Scriptures say, “Now when the chief priests
and Pharisees heard His parables, they perceived that He was speaking of them.”
(Matthew 21:45). Jesus did for these chief priests and Pharisees what Nathan did for
David – causing them to agree with the injustice of the situation and the need for
righteous judgment against the guilty parties, before they suddenly realized they were
the real subject of the parable. So, it can be said that Jesus taught in the form of
parables to CONCEAL, to REVEAL, and to APPEAL.

On occasions, Jesus provides the interpretation of the parable. But on other occasions,
we are left to interpret the parable for ourselves. When attempting to interpret
parables, there are a few extremes to avoid. First, avoid the extreme of reading too
much into the parable. Some make the mistake of reading deep spiritual truths into
every minute detail (eisegesis), rather than drawing simple truths from the parable
(exegesis). Parables are meant to reveal simple, basic truths to those who are seeking
to understand the Lord’s teaching, not to confuse His teaching with a wide range of
endless theological speculation. The plain, simple truths contained in parables were
meant to be carried away in the mind of the hearer, not examined under a microscope
or dissected to reveal every minute detail. Therefore, look for the simplest explanation
first – the general theme of the parable, then delve deeper into sub-meanings or sub-
themes. Second, avoid the extreme of saying there is just one spiritual truth contained
in each parable. However, make certain that the spiritual truths gleaned from the
parable are not formulating some new or contradictory doctrine. Truth must agree with
truth.

When interpreting a parable of Jesus, there are certain questions that should be asked.
First, ask who the intended audience was, or to whom was Jesus speaking? In most

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instances, the intended audience will be His disciples. But on other occasions, the
audience will range from publicans and sinners, to the scribes and Pharisees. A good
way to determine the intended audience is to ask who was learning the most from the
teaching of Jesus at the time? Second, ask what did Jesus intend to accomplish by the
parable? This may not always be obvious. For example, the Parables of the Mustard
Seed and the Leaven are very brief and offer no clear insight into why Jesus taught
these parables. But when we understand that the Savior had just spoken two parables
to His disciples that were somewhat discouraging (the Parable of the Sower, and the
Parable of the Wheat and the Tares), it seems probable that the Parable of the Mustard
Seed and the Leaven were spoken to give the disciples encouragement. On other
occasions, the purpose of the parable will become obvious. Some were spoken to those
who were more concerned about an outward display of religion than they were in the
practical application of such (as in the Parable of the Good Samaritan). Others had
problems with forgiveness, or with seeing themselves in need of forgiveness, or with
the acquisition of wealth. And still others were intent on killing Jesus, even though they
knew He was the Son of God, and needed to know that Jesus was well aware of their
evil plans. Third, ask what is the lesson to be learned? Every parable has a simple
lesson to teach. Some will be more apparent than others. But there is a simple lesson
to learn from every parable of Jesus. Don’t make the lesson so complex or highly
theological. And don’t forget that parables were intended to be simple, direct lessons
that could easily be remembered, and whose truths would be unforgettable. Look for
the “central” truth in every lesson.

Parables contained the “mysteries of the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 13:11), as well
as “things which had been kept secret from the foundation of the world” (Matthew
13:35). However, these mysteries and secret things are now revealed in the wonderful
gospel of Christ. In his closing remarks to the church at Rome, the apostle Paul gives
us this promise:

“Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the
preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery kept
secret since the world began but now has been made manifest, and by
the prophetic Scriptures has been made known to all nations, according to
the commandment of the everlasting God, for obedience to the faith; to
God, alone wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen.” (Romans
16:25-27).

Enjoy your study of the wonderful teachings of Jesus contained in His many parables.
Your knowledge will surely be increased, and your life will truly be enriched.

David Webb

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 The Parables of Jesus
Lesson One
Defining the Kingdom of Heaven

Introduction:
When Jesus began His ministry, the general theme of His preaching was things
concerning the “kingdom of heaven.” Matthew says, “From that time Jesus began to
preach and to say, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’... And Jesus went
about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom,
and healing all kinds of sickness and all kinds of disease among the people.” (Matthew
4:17, 23). His famous Sermon on the Mount repeatedly described many things about
the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 5:3, 10, 19-20; 6:10, 33; 7:21). Therefore, it should
not be surprising that the general theme of Jesus’ parables was also the kingdom of
heaven. In fact, many of His parables begin with the words, “The kingdom of heaven is
like...” (Matthew 13:24, 31, 33, 44, 45, 47). Jesus also spoke regarding “the mysteries
of the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 13:11). But what did Jesus mean when He spoke
of the kingdom of heaven? What is it?

Questions to Consider:
1. Some attempt to make a distinction between the terms “kingdom of heaven” and
“kingdom of God.” Compare the passages below, and answer the following
questions.

Compare With
Matthew 4:17 Mark 1:14-15
Matthew 5:3 Luke 6:20
Matthew 13:31 Mark 4:30-31

a. Do these passages indicate a distinction between the terms “kingdom of

heaven” and “kingdom of God?” Explain.

b. Why do you think Matthew used one term exclusively while Mark and Luke
used the other to describe what appears to be the same thing?

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2. What does the term “kingdom” mean (See: Luke 17:21; Matthew 6:10)?

3. From John 18:36, what is the “nature” of the kingdom – physical or spiritual?

4. How is the “kingdom of heaven” or the “kingdom of God” manifested today (See:
Matthew 16:18-19; Colossians 1:12-14; 1 Thessalonians 2:10-12; Revelation 1:4-
9)?

5. In one sense, the “kingdom of heaven” and the “kingdom of God” are both
PRESENT, but in another sense, they are both FUTURE.
a. In what way is the “kingdom of heaven” PRESENT (See: Colossians 1:12-14;
Revelation 1:4-9)?

b. In what way is the “kingdom of heaven” FUTURE (See: 1 Corinthians 15:24; 2

Peter 3:13; Matthew 7:21-23)?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 The Parables of Jesus
Lesson Two
The Parable of the Sower
(Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23; Mark 4:3-9, 13-20; Luke 8:4-8, 11-15)

Introduction:
Even though Jesus preached the gospel of the kingdom of heaven, He didn’t always find
a receptive audience. And although His miracles and other mighty works which He
performed were unmistakably performed by divine power, He was still rejected. Some
thought Jesus performed these miracles by the power of Satan. While the people of
Jesus’ day had ears to hear, their ears had become hard of hearing, and even though
they had eyes to see, their eyes had become blinded to the truth. To illustrate to His
disciples that not everyone will be receptive to the message of the good news, Jesus
taught this parable.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. Who is the sower, even though the sower is not specifically mentioned (Compare
with: Matthew 13:37)?

3. What is the seed (See: Matthew 13:19a)?

4. Describe the first kind of soil mentioned in the parable (the “wayside”).

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 a. What or who is represented by the birds (See: Luke 8:12)?

5. Describe the second kind of soil mentioned in the parable (the “stony places”).

6. Describe the third kind of soil mentioned in the parable (the seed that fell “among
the thorns”).

a. Explain how seed falling among thorns is like those troubled by “the cares of
this world” (Matthew 13:22b).

b. Explain how seed falling among thorns is like those troubled by “the
deceitfulness of riches” (Matthew 13:22c).

c. Explain how seed falling among thorns is like those troubled by “the pleasures
of life” (Luke 8:14).

7. Describe the fourth kind of soil mentioned in the parable (the “good ground”).

8. What kind of fruit are Christians supposed to bear?

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9. What does it mean that not all bear the same amount of harvest – “some a
hundred fold, some sixty, some thirty” (Matthew 13:23)?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Three
The Parable of the Wheat and Tares
(Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43)

Introduction:
From the Parable of the Sower, Jesus taught His disciples that not everyone would
accept the Word of the kingdom the same way. Some would have hearts completely
hardened against receiving the Word. Others would receive it, but persecutions or
concerns over matters in life would keep the Word from growing properly and
producing fruit. This meant that only a minority of those who heard the Word and
obeyed it would eventually be fruitful. In the Parable of the Wheat and the Tares,
Jesus also illustrated this truth, but goes one step further to show the role Satan will
have in attempting to contaminate the kingdom with false teachers and false doctrines.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. Read the parable carefully and answer the following questions:

a. Who is the sower and what kind of seed does He sow (Matthew 13:37)?

b. What does the field represent (Matthew 13:38)?

c. What or who are represented by the “good seed” (Matthew 13:38)?

d. What or who are represented by the “tares” (Matthew 13:38)?

e. Who is the “enemy” (Matthew 13:39)?

f. Who are the “reapers” (Matthew 13:41)?

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3. When does Jesus say the problem of the tares will be addressed, and why
(Matthew 13:41)?

4. What happens to the tares and what happens to the “righteous” (Matthew 13:42-
43)?

5. What does this parable teach about the longsuffering of Christ?

6. Does this parable mean the church doesn’t need to worry about discipline
(withdrawing from those who stubbornly refuse to repent of public sins)? Explain
your answer in light of Matthew 18:15-17; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; 2 Thessalonians
3:6-15.

7. The angels will gather two classes of people “out of His kingdom.” Explain each.
a. Those who “offend” (See: Matthew 18:6-7; 1 Corinthians 8:11-13; 10:31-
11:1; Romans 16:17-18; also see Romans 14:13, 19-21).

b. Those who “practice lawlessness” (See: Matthew 7:21-23; 2 John 9).

8. What is the punishment waiting for the wicked? Explain.

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Four
The Parable of the Growing Seed
(Mark 4:26-29)

Introduction:
Jesus had just taught two parables that said not everyone will hear the Word of God,
and Satan would do his best to undermine the efforts of those who faithfully followed
the Lord. This would have certainly been a discouraging message for Jesus’ disciples to
hear. Therefore, to give them encouragement, Jesus taught parables that show the
kingdom of heaven may start small, but it is destined for remarkable growth. To teach
this encouraging lesson, Jesus used the Parable of the Growing Seed, the Parable of the
Mustard Seed, and the Parable of the Leaven. While there are many similarities, there
are also some subtle differences between these parables. Therefore, they will be
studied separately. This parable of the Growing Seed is found only in the book of Mark,
and is similar in its setting to two other parables, the Parable of the Sower (Matthew
13:1-9, 18-23; Mark 4:1-20; Luke 8:4-8, 11-15) and the Parable of the Mustard Seed
(Matthew 13:31-32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18-19).

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. Although the seed is not specifically identified in this parable, what does the seed
in this parable most likely represent (See: Mark 4:14; Luke 8:11).

3. If this parable is describing growth produced by the Word of God, describe how
such growth is represented in the following verses:
a. Mark 4:26-28a?

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 b. Mark 4:28b?

4. What eventually follows the growth of the seed (Mark 4:29)? Explain what this
means.

5. In comparing the Parable of the Sower with the Parable of the Growing Seed,
which parable seems to emphasize human responsibility and which seems to
emphasize divine power within the Word? Explain your answer.

6. From the following passages, what can the seed do for us?
a. 1 Peter 1:22-25; James 1:18.

b. 1 Peter 2:1-2.

c. James 1:21

7. What do the following passages tell us about how we are to receive the “seed”
(the Word) in our lives (Luke 8:15; Acts 17:11; James 1:21; 1 Peter 2:1-2)?

8. This parable teaches us that the real power to change the lives of men and women
lies within the seed (the Word), and not within the one who sows the seed.
However, there are some things that we need to do. Explain the two actions
described by Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:5-7.

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Five
The Parable of the Mustard Seed
(Matthew 13:31-32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18-19)

Introduction:
To give encouragement to His disciples, Jesus taught parables that illustrate the fact
that the kingdom of heaven may start small, but is destined for remarkable growth. To
teach this encouraging lesson, Jesus used the Parable of the Growing Seed, the Parable
of the Mustard Seed, and the Parable of the Leaven. While there are many similarities,
there are also subtle differences between these parables.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. What is particular about mustard seeds?

3. On another occasion, Jesus used the mustard seed to describe a person’s faith.
Explain how mustard seed was used in that example (Matthew 17:14-21).

4. Compare the stone in the prophecy of Daniel (Daniel 2:31-45, esp. verse 35), with
the mustard seed in this parable of Jesus. What are each teaching?

5. Did the church begin as Jesus said it would (See: Acts 2:41-42; 4:4; 6:7; 9:31;
21:20)?

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6. The mustard seed grew into a tree so that “the birds of the air come and nest in
its branches.” What does this mean regarding the church?

7. Why isn’t the church growing today?

Consider the mathematical possibilities of church growth. Beginning with just 20

disciples, and each converting just one person a year, and each convert doing the same,
here is how the church could grow.
At the End Total Number of
of Year Disciples
1 40
5 640
10 20,480
15 655,360
20 20,971,520
25 1,342,177,280

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Six
The Parable of the Leaven
(Matthew 13:33; Luke 13:20-21)

Introduction:
In the Parable of the Growing Seed, Jesus showed His disciples the marvelous power
that was contained in the Word of God to convict and convert the sinner and bring a
bountiful harvest. In the Parable of the Mustard Seed, Jesus taught that the kingdom
will grow despite its small beginning. Since Jesus had just taught parables which show
that not everyone will hear the Word of God, and Satan would do his best to undermine
the efforts of those who faithfully followed the Lord, the disciples may have been
discouraged. To give them encouragement Jesus taught parables showing the kingdom
is destined for remarkable growth. The third of these parables is the Parable of the
Leaven.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. What was leaven?

3. Jesus symbolically used leaven in other of His teachings (Matthew 16:5-12; Luke
12:1), and so did the apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 5:1-13). How is leaven used in
these passages?

4. Compare or contrast how Jesus is symbolically using leaven in the Parable of the
Leaven (Matthew 13:33; Luke 13:20-21).

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5. Is the leaven in the Parable of the Leaven a positive or negative influence?
Explain.

6. What would the “three measures of meal” (the loaf) represent in this parable of
Jesus?

7. In what ways does the growth of the kingdom of heaven compare to leaven
hidden in three measures of meal?

8. How does our being “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world” (Matthew
5:13-16) fit in with the Parable of the Leaven?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Seven
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure
(Matthew 13:44)

Introduction:
To impress His disciples with the incomprehensible value of the kingdom of heaven,
Jesus taught two parables which say much the same thing, but in a slightly different
way. One in the Parable of the Hidden Treasure, and the other is the Parable of the
Pearl of Great Price. Although these two parables are often studied together, we will
examine them separately.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. Do you believe the man in this parable was intentionally looking for the treasure?
Explain.

3. What kind of person is Jesus describing in this parable?

4. Can you think of one or more New Testament characters who might be like the
man who found a treasure hidden in a field accidentally -- when he wasn’t
searching for it?

5. From each of the passages below, explain what value the kingdom is to us.
a. Colossians 1:13.

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 b. Romans 14:17.

c. Hebrews 12:25-29.

d. 1 Corinthians 15:21-26.

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Eight
The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price
(Matthew 13:45-46)

Introduction:
The Parable of the Hidden Treasure depicts the value of the kingdom of heaven to one
who accidentally finds it. However, the Parable of the Pearl of Great Price speaks of the
value of the kingdom of heaven to one who deliberately sets out to find it.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. What kind of person is Jesus describing in this parable?

3. Does this parable suggest we can “buy” or “earn” our way into the kingdom of
heaven? Explain.

4. If salvation is a gift of God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8-9), how is it that we “buy” the
kingdom of heaven?

5. The New Testament provides us with four good examples of those who were
looking (searching) for something of spiritual value. Describe how each fits in with
this parable of Jesus.
a. The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-39).

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 b. Cornelius (Acts 10:1-8, 30-33).

c. Lydia (Acts 16:11-15).

d. The Bereans (Acts 17:10-11).

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Nine
The Parable of the Dragnet
(Matthew 13:47-50)

Introduction:
In the parables studied so far, Jesus has impressed several things on the mind of His
disciples. First, not everyone will be receptive to the Word, and Satan will make every
effort to prevent the kingdom from thriving. Second, the kingdom may start out small,
but will grow. Third, there will be those who find the kingdom either by accident or
because they are searching for it, and will sacrifice all they have to gain it. Now, Jesus
wants to impress His disciples once again that even though there will be a mixture of
good and bad in the kingdom, there will be a final separation. The first time Jesus
taught this principle was in the Parable of the Wheat and the Tares (Matthew 13:24-30,
36-43). The second time Jesus teaches this same principle is here in the Parable of the
Dragnet.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. What is the general theme of this parable?

3. What is a dragnet?

4. In what way will there be a separation of the good from the bad (the just from the
wicked), and who will do the separating?

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5. What happens to “the bad,” or the wicked (Matthew 13:50)?

6. The Greek word for “hell” is “Gehenna.” Look up the word in a Bible dictionary
and explain where this word came from, and what it means.

7. Using a concordance, find other places where the following terms are used, and
explain what they mean:
a. Furnace of fire (or lake of fire).

b. Weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Ten
The Parable of the Householder
(Matthew 13:51-52)

Introduction:
When Jesus asked “have you understood all these things” (Matthew 13:51), He was
probably speaking of all the parables He had taught up to this point -- truths that were
related to “the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven.” When the disciples replied in the
affirmative, Jesus taught another parable known as The Parable of the Householder.
This parable seems to be speaking more directly to those who also should have
understood all these things, but didn’t -- the scribes (those who were trained in the
finer points of the Law of Moses). More specifically, Jesus speaks about those scribes
who had been “instructed concerning the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 13:52).

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. This parable describes the disciples of the Lord in the following ways.
a. Disciples are like scribes who knew and understood the Word of God. Explain
why it is important for us to know and understand the Word of God.

b. Disciples are like a householder with a treasure. What is the “treasure” out of
which the householder brings out things new and old (See: Psalms 19:7-11;
Proverbs 3:13-18; Colossians 2:2-3)?

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 c. Every disciple has both an old and a new treasure. What would best
represent the “old” and the “new” treasure (See: Romans 15:4; 1 Corinthians
10:11; 2 Timothy 3:14-17)?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Eleven
The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant
(Matthew 18:21-35)

Introduction:
The previous parables have concentrated mostly on the kingdom of heaven itself, along
with a description of those who will be found in the kingdom -- both good and bad.
However, the next parable focuses more on the specific character of those who will
make up the kingdom -- those who display mercy and forgiveness.

Questions to Consider:
1. What prompted this parable (Matthew 18:21)?

2. Describe the events in this parable.

3. Read the following verses, and explain why Peter believed he only needed to
forgive a brother who had sinned against him up to seven times in a day (Amos
1:3, 6, 9, 11, 13; 2:1, 4, 6).

4. Explain Jesus’ response (Matthew 18:22).

5. Some commentators believe the talent mentioned in this parable may have been
equivalent to six thousand denarii. It is also said that one denarius was the
equivalent of a days wage for the average working man. Based on this
information, calculate and answer the following questions.

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 a. The first debtor owed the king ten thousand talents. How many days wages
(or how many denarii) would be required to pay this debt? How many years?
What does this tell you about this man’s debt?

b. The second debtor owed the first debtor one hundred denarii. How many
days wages would be required to pay this debt? What does this tell you
about this man’s debt?

6. What did the first debtor ask for, what did the king do, and why did he do it?

7. What did the second debtor ask for, what did the first debtor do, and why did he
do it?

8. What was the king’s reaction, and what was the first debtor’s punishment?

9. Which of the two debtors best represent us when it comes to our sins against
God?

10. Which of the two debtors best represent those who sin against us?

11. How do we develop a forgiving spirit (See: Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13)?

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12. Is it possible for us to put an offense out of our mind (See: Genesis 41:51;
Philippians 3:13; 2 Timothy 4:16).

13. Read Matthew 6:14-15. What did Jesus teach about forgiveness here?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twelve
The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard
(Matthew 20:1-16)

Introduction:
In the Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard, Jesus focuses on another attitude of
heart that has no place in the kingdom of heaven. This parable has been difficult for
many expositors, and the explanations have varied significantly. However, a careful
reading of the text should allow us to understand the main point of Jesus’ teaching.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. To understand the setting of this parable, read Matthew 19:16-30, and answer the
following questions.
a. Who first approached Jesus and what was his question (Matthew 19:16)?

b. What was Jesus’ reply, and why did the man go away sorrowful (Matthew
19:21-22)?

c. What did Jesus say to His disciples about riches (Matthew 19:23-24)?

d. What was their response (Matthew 19:25)?

e. What was Peter’s question (Matthew 19:27)?

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 f. What was Jesus’ reply (Matthew 19:28-30)?

3. What was the chief complaint among those who in the parable who labored all day
(Matthew 20:12)?

4. Since the parable is in response to Peter’s question (Matthew 19:27), who would
the workers be who were the first into the vineyard?

5. Who would be the workers who arrived later to work in the vineyard?

6. What is the main point of the parable?

7. What kept the laborers who were hired last from going into the vineyard earlier
(Matthew 20:7)? What does this tell you about their desire to work?

8. Is this parable teaching that those who purposely put off obeying the gospel until
the last moment will be saved (See: Matthew 20:7)?

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Thirteen
The Parable of the Two Sons
(Matthew 21:28-32)

Introduction:
Although Jesus often responded to His disciple’s questions with a parable, He also used
parables to answer those who opposed Him. During His final week in Jerusalem, Jesus
encountered much opposition from a wide range of Jewish religious and political
leaders. Three specific parables were spoken to these groups of people -- the Parable
of the Two Sons (Matthew 21:28-32), the Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Matthew
21:33-46; Mark 12:1-12; Luke 20:9-20), and the Parable of the Wedding Feast
(Matthew 22:1-14).

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. What questions prompted this parable, and to whom did Jesus specifically apply
this parable (Matthew 21:23-27)?

3. Which son did the will of his father? Explain.

4. How were the religious leaders like the second son?

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5. How were the “tax collectors and harlots” like the first son?

6. Which kind of son would be described by James 1:22-27? The first or the second?

7. Which kind of son would be described in Luke 6:46? The first or the second?

8. If we are saved by “grace through faith” and “not of works” (Ephesians 2:8-9),
isn’t requiring “obedience” just another form of legalism? Explain.

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Fourteen
The Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers
(Matthew 21:33-46; Mark 12:1-12; Luke 20:9-20)

Introduction:
During His final week in Jerusalem, Jesus taught three parables against those Jewish
religious and political leaders who opposed Him. First came the Parable of the Two
Sons (Matthew 21:28-32) in which Jesus characterized the chief priests and elders of
the people like the son who gladly says he will do his father’s will, then later refused to
obey. The second of these parables, the Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Matthew
21:33-46; Mark 12:1-12; Luke 20:9-20), is also spoken to those who stood in opposition
to Jesus and were plotting His death. In this parable, Jesus shows these wicked men
that He is well aware of their plots and schemes. The final parable spoken to those
who opposed Jesus will be the Parable of the Wedding Feast (Matthew 22:1-14).

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. If Jesus is speaking this parable to the Jewish religious and political leaders, what
would the vineyard represent (See: Isaiah 5:1-7)?

3. Who was represented by the landowner in this parable?

4. Who would be represented by the wicked vinedressers?

5. Who would the servants of the landowner represent?

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6. Who is the landowner’s son?

7. Who were the “builders” and who was the “stone” they rejected (See: Matthew
21:42; Mark 12:10; Luke 20:17; Psalms 118:22-23; Acts 4:10-12).

8. What did Jesus mean when He said, “And whoever falls on this stone will be
broken; but on whomever it falls, it will grind him to powder” (Matthew 21:44; also
Luke 20:18)?

9. What does this parable teach about how we should view the blessings and
privileges God has given us?

10. From the following passages, what does the Bible teach about the privileges we
neglect as Christians (John 15:1-2, 6; Revelation 2:4-5, 16; 3:1-3; Hebrews 10:26-
31)?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Fifteen
The Parable of the Wedding Feast
(Matthew 22:1-14)

Introduction:
The third parable Jesus spoke to the Jewish religious and political leaders during His
final week in Jerusalem was the Parable of the Wedding Feast. The first was the
Parable of the Two Sons (Matthew 21:28-32) where Jesus describes the chief priests
and elders like the son who gladly says he will do his father’s will, then later disobeyed.
The second was the Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Matthew 21:33-46; Mark 12:1-
12; Luke 20:9-20) where Jesus shows the chief priests and elders that He is well aware
of their plots to kill Him. In the final parable, the Parable of the Wedding Feast
(Matthew 22:1-14), Jesus again shows these men how they are wickedly rejecting the
kindness and graciousness of God who has invited them to the wedding feast of His
Son, Jesus Christ. The Parable of the Wedding Feast is not to be confused with a
similar parable, the Parable of the Great Supper (Luke 14:15-24).

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. There are two attitudes displayed by those who spurned the invitation of the Lord
in this parable of Jesus. Describe each.
a. Matthew 22:3-5.

b. Matthew 22:6.

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3. Who would the “servants” of the King be in this parable (Matthew 22:5-6)?
(Compare with: Matthew 21:33-46)

4. Why was the King so furious?

5. Compare Matthew 22:7 to Luke 19:41-44, and describe what event Jesus may
have been warning about.

6. Who would be represented by those who were first invited to the wedding feast,
and who would be represented by those who were invited after the others
refused to come?

7. Hosts customarily provided their guests with suitable apparel for a wedding feast.
What kind of attitude was displayed by the one who was not properly attired?

8. What was the punishment of this person, and why was it so severe? (Compare:
Matthew 13:42, 50).

9. How would we apply the final statement of Jesus today (Matthew 22:14)?

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

40
 Lesson Sixteen
The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins
(Matthew 25:1-13)

Introduction:
After Jesus warned His disciples about the coming destruction of Jerusalem (Matthew
24), He proceeds to teach them two additional parables. Some scholars are uncertain
as to whether the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins and the Parable of the Talents
is a continuation of the warning Jesus gave of the need to prepare for the coming
destruction of Jerusalem, or whether the warning is to be prepared for His eventual
Second Coming. Some of the parables we have already examined describe what will
take place in the “kingdom of heaven” when Jesus returns (the Parable of the Wheat
and Tares, and the Parable of the Dragnet), and it is almost universally agreed that the
Matthew 25:31-46 pertains to the Final Judgment at the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.
The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins and the Parable of the Talents seem to fit
best in the context of the Final Judgment of Matthew 25:31-46. In either case, there
are valuable and timely lessons to learn from both parables.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. What is the main theme or the central point of this parable?

3. How does this parable compare to the following passages:

a. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6.

b. 2 Peter 3:10-12.

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 c. Revelation 3:2-3.

4. How are some Christians today like the following:

a. The five foolish virgins?

b. The five wise virgins?

5. The five foolish virgins seemed to have wanted to get by with only a “minimal”
amount of oil. What kind of attitude does this suggest?

6. The five wise virgins could not share their oil with the foolish. Is it possible for us
to “share” our accomplishments and work with others? Explain.

7. What was the final warning of Jesus and how does it apply to us (Matthew 25:13)?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Seventeen
The Parable of the Talents
(Matthew 25:14-30)

Introduction:
The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins and the Parable of the Talents were both
spoken by Jesus to His disciples immediately after warning them about coming
destruction of Jerusalem (Matthew 24). Although some believe these parables are a
continuation of the warning Jesus gave concerning the destruction of Jerusalem, it
appears that they fit best into the context of the Final Judgment of Matthew 25:31-46.
While the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins stresses the need to be prepared, the
Parable of the Talents seems to emphasize being productive and working for the Lord
while we wait for His return. The word “Talent” in this parable pertains to a sum of
money. One talent was approximately 6000 denarii, or the amount of money an
average working man would earn during a twenty year period of employment (since a
denarius is an average day’s wage).

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events in this parable.

2. What is the significance of talents being given to each man “according to his own
ability” (Matthew 25:15)?

3. What was the point Jesus was attempting to make in verse 19?

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4. What kind of person is being described by the following:
a. The ten talent man and the five talent man who doubled their investment?

b. The one talent man who simply hid his investment?

5. What should the one talent man have done with the investment? Why?

6. What does Jesus mean by the statement “to everyone who has, more will be
given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what
he has will be taken away” (Matthew 25:29)?

7. Has every Christian been given talents (using the word “talents” to speak of God-
given abilities)? Explain.

8. What does this lesson tell you about the sins of omission as well as sins of
commission?

9. List the “talents” (abilities) God has given you. Are you using them to the fullest
of your potential?

10. What are ways we can determine our “talents” (abilities)?

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

45
 Lesson Eighteen
The Parable of the Two Debtors
(Luke 7:41-43)

Introduction:
This parable appears only in Luke. It was meant to focus the attention of one self-
righteous man on one forgiven sinful woman, and cause him to understand how
grateful everyone should be that God has forgiven us of our sins. However, there is a
deeper message in this parable. It also draws our attention to acts of service we may
do in return for the gracious gift of salvation that has been so freely given to us.

Questions to Consider:
1. What is the setting of this parable (See: Luke 7:36-40)?

2. Describe the events in this parable.

3. From the setting of this parable, what significant facts do you know about Simon?
What do these facts tell you about what Simon’s attitude toward God’s forgiveness
should have been?

4. What significant facts do we know about this woman, and how is she different
from Simon?

5. Although the two debtors in Jesus’ parable owed different amounts, what one
thing did they have in common?

46
6. What kind of persons would be represented by a 500 denarii debt verses a 50
denarii debt, and what one thing do each have in common?

7. Which debtor loved the creditor more? Why? Explain your answer.

8. What had Simon failed to do that any good host should have done? By contrast,
what did the woman do?

9. What did Jesus mean when He said, “her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for
she loved much” (Luke 7:47a)?

10. What did Jesus mean by the words, “to whom little is forgiven, the same loves
little” (Luke 7:47b)?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Nineteen
The Parable of the Good Samaritan
(Luke 10:25-37)

Introduction:
This is another parable that appears only in Luke, and is perhaps one of the best known
parables of Jesus. The term “Good Samaritan” has been given to hospitals, and even to
laws which encourage those who see others in life threatening situations to offer
assistance without fear of reprisals. Unfortunately, this parable has been given all kinds
of allegorical interpretations which have obscured the simple meaning of the lesson. As
with all parables, there is a tendency to read too much into the parable. Let’s see if we
can discover the simple, direct message Jesus taught on this occasion.

Questions to Consider:
1. What is the setting of this parable (See: Luke 10:25-29)?

2. What was a “lawyer” as used in the context of Luke 10:25?

3. What was the lawyer’s purpose for posing his questions to Jesus?

4. When the lawyer asked, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life," what did
Jesus do? What is the significance of pointing this man to the Law?

5. What is involved in the commandments to “love the LORD your God with all your
heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your
neighbor as yourself” (See: Deuteronomy 6:5; Leviticus 19:18)?

48
6. Jesus quoted these same commandments on another occasion, but added one
additional statement. What did He mean by saying, “On these two
commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 22:40)?

7. How was the lawyer seeking to “justify himself” by asking, “And who is my
neighbor” (Luke 10:29)?

8. Describe the main points of the Parable of the Good Samaritan.

9. What is known about the road between Jericho and Jerusalem?

10. What is significant about a priest and a Levite passing the wounded man?

11. Who were the Samaritans, and why were they so despised by the Jews (See:
John 4:9; 2 Kings 17:24-41)?

12. What is significant about the extent to which the Samaritan goes to take care of
the wounded man?

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13. Describe how Jesus reworded the question of the lawyer, and what that implies
(Luke 10:29, 36).

14. Who is our neighbor?

15. What does this parable teach us about the cost of being compassionate toward
others?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twenty
The Parable of the Friend at Midnight
(Luke 11:1-13)

Introduction:
While most of the parables of Jesus dealt with the theme of the kingdom of heaven,
some are responses to specific questions Jesus was asked by either His disciples or
even by His enemies. This parable is Jesus’ response to a question He was asked about
prayer by one of the disciples. Luke writes, “Now it came to pass, as He was praying in
a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples said to Him, ‘Lord, teach us to
pray, as John also taught his disciples.’” (Luke 11:1). Jesus did three things in
answering this request. First, He told them how to pray, and what we should pray for.
Second, He taught a parable which stressed the importance of being persistent in
prayer. Finally, He followed up the parable with an explanation of what He had
intended to illustrate.

Questions to Consider:
1. Examine the following passages and describe the prayer habits of Jesus.
a. Mark 1:35.

b. Luke 5:16.

c. Luke 6:12-13.

d. John 17.

e. Matthew 26:36-44.

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 f. Matthew 27:46 and Luke 23:34, 46.

2. Jesus teaches a lesson on prayer by giving an example of how one should pray,
and what should be included in that prayer (See: Luke 11:2-4). Jesus taught a
similar lesson on prayer in the Sermon on the Mount. What did Jesus mean by the
words “in this manner, therefore, pray?” (See: Matthew 6:9-15).

3. Compare the two lessons on prayer (Luke 11:2-4 with Matthew 6:9-15). What do
these lessons teach regarding how we should pray, and what should be included in
our prayers?

4. Describe the events of the parable known as “The Friend at Midnight” (Luke 11:5-
8).

5. What does Jesus teach about the importance of persistence in our prayers (See:
Luke 11:9-10)?

6. What was Jesus trying to tell His disciples in Luke 11:11-13?

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

53
 Lesson Twenty One
The Parable of the Rich Fool
(Luke 12:13-21)

Introduction:
On one occasion Jesus was interrupted during a series of lessons by a man who wanted
Him to settle a family dispute over an inheritance. Jesus not only responded in a terse
manner, but proceeded to warn His disciples to “beware of covetousness, for one's life
does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (Luke 12:15).
Immediately, Jesus launched into what has become known as the Parable of the Rich
Fool. It concerned a covetous man who foolishly placed all his confidence in earthly
riches. In a materialistic society like ours, this parable is very timely.

Questions to Consider:
1. Examine the following verses and briefly describe the content of the three lessons
Jesus had been teaching the crowd before He was interrupted.
a. Luke 12:1-3.

b. Luke 12:4-7.

c. Luke 12:8-12.

2. What does the man’s question (Luke 12:13) tell you about his character and where
his heart was?

3. From Jesus’ response (Luke 12:14), what tells you the Lord was displeased with
the interruption?

54
4. How did the Lord view the real nature of the man’s problem (Luke 12:15)?

5. Describe the events of the Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:16-21).

6. There are three basic mistakes the Rich Fool made. Explain each of the following
in your own words.
a. He did not thank or give glory to God.

b. He did not share his bounty with others.

c. He did not understand his own mortality.

7. What does it mean to be “rich toward God” (Luke 12:21)?

8. In the verses that follow, Jesus taught two important lessons. Explain each.
a. Luke 12:22-32.

b. Luke 12:33-34.

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

56
 Lesson Twenty Two
The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree
(Luke 13:6-9)

Introduction:
Jesus taught several parables that spoke of the wickedness and fate that awaited the
religious leaders of Israel, such as the Parable of the Two Sons, the Parable of the
Wicked Vinedressers, and the Parable of the Wedding Feast. These parables were
spoken by the Lord during the final week before His crucifixion. On an earlier occasion,
Jesus taught a similar parable that related to God’s dealings with the nation of Israel as
a whole -- how the nation would be destroyed if it rejected Jesus as the Messiah. That
parable was the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree. It’s a parable that speaks of the need
for both individual as well as national repentance.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events leading up the this parable (Luke 13:1-5).

2. Describe the basic elements of the parable (Luke 13:6-9).

3. What does this parable teach about God extending privileges to Israel?

4. What does this parable teach about God’s longsuffering toward Israel?

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5. What does this parable teach about Israel’s unfruitfulness?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twenty Three
The Parable of Taking the Lowest Place
(Luke 14:7-11)

Introduction:
Jesus did not limit His parables to simply instructing His disciples. As we have already
seen, He used parables to respond to those who challenged Him, as well as to teach
others important spiritual lessons. The latter were often taught in casual, informal
settings. Such was the case in the Parable of Taking the Lowest Place. Jesus used a
casual setting to teach a valuable lesson on humility.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events leading up the this parable (Luke 14:1-7).

2. Describe the events of the Parable of Taking the Lowest Place (Luke 14:8-11).

3. What is the main principle taught in this parable? Explain.

4. In the Parable of Taking the Lowest Place, Jesus was obviously dealing with the
sin of pride. Examine each of the following verses and explain what they teach on
the subject of pride.
a. Proverbs 8:13.

b. Mark 7:21-23.

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 c. 1 John 2:15-17.

5. From the following passages, what do we learn about humility?

a. Psalms 25:9 and Proverbs 3:34.

b. Proverbs 11:2.

c. Proverbs 18:12.

d. Colossians 3:12.

e. 1 Peter 5:6.

f. Philippians 2:3

g. Titus 3:2 and 2 Timothy 2:24-25.

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twenty Four
The Parable of the Great Supper
(Luke 14:15-24)

Introduction:
The Parable of the Great Supper was taught in the same setting as the Parable of
Taking the Lowest Place. Jesus was a guest at the house of one of the rulers of the
Pharisees. He had gone there to enjoy a meal on the Sabbath, but was being watched
closely by the scribes (lawyers) and Pharisees who were present as He healed a man
with dropsy on that Sabbath. After silencing their objections, Jesus revealed the pride
and hypocrisy of the Pharisees by illustrating how they all sought the best seats. He
immediately launched into a second parable known as the Parable of the Great Supper.
Although this parable is similar to the Parable of the Wedding Feast, there are marked
differences. The Parable of the Wedding Feast, which was spoken much later during
the ministry of Jesus, seems to focus more on the nation of Israel as a whole, while the
Parable of the Great Supper seems to be more limited.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events preceding the parable (Luke 14:12-15).

2. These verses contain a classic “not - but” statement. A “not - but” statement is
often used in Scripture to mean “not so much this, but more this.” It places a
greater emphasis on the latter over the former. With this in mind, what is Jesus
saying in these verses (Luke 14:12-15)?

3. Describe the events of the Parable of the Great Supper (Luke 14:16-24).

4. What period of time would the “Great Supper” in this parable represent? Explain.

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5. What kind of people are being described in verses 18-20? (Compare: Matthew
6:33 and Luke 10:38-42).

6. Who would best represent those who accepted the invitation to the “Great
Supper?” (See: Matthew 21:31-32 and Matthew 21:43).

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twenty Five
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
(Luke 15:1-7)

Introduction:
In the fifteenth chapter of Luke, Jesus taught three parables back-to-back that speak of
God’s love for the lost. They are the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the Parable of the Lost
Coin, and the Parable of the Lost Son (also known as the Parable of the Prodigal Son).
The purpose of these parables was to silence the scribes and Pharisees who were
complaining about Jesus being a friend to sinners. They were spoken to reveal the
extent of God’s love toward those lost in sin, and to show what our attitude should be
toward the lost as well.

Questions to Consider:
1. There were two groups of people who drew near to Jesus. Tell what you know
about each group as they are described in this setting and in other New Testament
passages.
a. The tax collectors (publicans).

b. Sinners.

2. The chief complains of the scribes and Pharisees against Jesus was “This Man
receives sinners and eats with them” (Luke 15:2). In your own words explain why
the scribes and the Pharisees would murmur against Jesus for associating with tax
collectors and sinners.

3. Describe the events in the Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:3-7).

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4. What does this parable tell you about the extent to which God will go to find those
lost in sin? (See: Luke 19:10).

5. What does this parable tell you about God’s attitude toward those who are found?

6. How do we reconcile the fact that we are to be separate from the world (2
Corinthians 6:14-18), but yet we can associate with those in the world (1
Corinthians 5:9-11; 10:27-29)?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twenty Six
The Parable of the Lost Coin
(Luke 15:8-10)

Introduction:
Like the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the Parable of the Lost Coin was intended to silence
the scribes and Pharisees who were complaining about Jesus being a friend to sinners.
This parable was also spoken to illustrate God’s love toward sinners, and to show what
our attitude toward the lost should be as well.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events of the Parable of the Lost Coin (Luke 15:8-10).

2. Many have attempted to “allegorize” every detail of this parable and make it teach
a wide range of lessons. However, there is only one central lesson in this parable.
What is it?

3. What is the difference, if any, between “joy in heaven” (verse 7) and “joy in the
presence of the angels of God” (verse 10)?

4. What are some of the most common attitudes that people (including ourselves)
have toward the lost? What should our attitude be? Explain.

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5. What are some of the most common attitudes that many (including ourselves)
have toward those who repent? What should our attitude be? Explain.

6. Why should it be an occasion of great joy when a sinner repents?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twenty Seven
The Parable of the Lost Son (Prodigal Son)
(Luke 15:11-32)

Introduction:
The Parable of the Lost Son is also known as the Parable of the Prodigal Son. The word
“prodigal” means “reckless” or “wasteful,” and speaks of someone who carelessly
misuses something of great value. The term “prodigal” is an accurate description of the
young man who “wasted his possessions with prodigal living” (Luke 15:13). Like the
Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Parable of the Lost Coin, the Parable of the Lost Son
was intended to silence the scribes and Pharisees who were complaining about Jesus
being a friend to sinners. But this parable did more than simply illustrate God’s love
toward sinners, it revealed the evil in the heart of those like the scribes and Pharisees
who were like the older brother, refusing to acknowledge sinners when they did repent.

Questions to Consider:
1. What does the younger son’s request tell you about the attitude of his heart
toward his father and the inheritance (Luke 15:12)?

2. According to Deuteronomy 21:17, how were estates between two brothers to be

divided?

3. What happened to the younger son’s inheritance (Luke 15:13-14a)?

4. What is significant about this young man working to feed pigs? (See: Leviticus
11:7).

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5. What words are used to describe the turning point in the younger son’s life? (See:
Luke 15:17). Explain.

6. What two things was the younger son determined to do (Luke 15:18-19)?

7. How was the younger son received by the father (Luke 15:20b)? Explain.

8. What is the significance of the following (Luke 15:22-23):

a. The best robe?

b. The ring?

c. Shoes?

d. The fatted calf?

9. What did the father mean by the phrase “for this my son was dead and is alive
again; he was lost and is found” (Luke 15:24)?

10. What was the attitude of the older brother (Luke 15:25-30)?

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11. What was the older brother’s chief complaint (Matthew 15:29-30)?

12. What was the father’s response (Luke 15:31-32)?

13. What words does the older brother use to describe the younger, as opposed to the
words the father uses (Luke 15:30, 32). Explain the significance of this.

14. Who do the following characters in this parable represent? Explain each.
a. The father?

b. The younger son?

c. The older brother?

15. What were the key lessons Jesus was attempting to teach in this parable?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twenty Eight
The Parable of the Unjust Steward
(Luke 16:1-15)

Introduction:
The Parable of the Unjust Steward is one which was directed specifically to the disciples
of Jesus, although the Pharisees happened to overhear what Jesus said and derided
Him. In this parable, Jesus not only gives the parable itself, but also gives the
interpretation of the parable. While many consider this parable difficult to understand,
since it appears on the surface that Jesus is teaching His disciples to be dishonest,
nothing could be further from the truth. The parable has one central theme -- one
main point. Jesus is teaching His disciples to exercise shrewdness, to be sharp and
aware, to be “street smart” when it comes to handling material wealth.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events of the Parable of the Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-8).

2. What did Jesus mean by the statement, “For the sons of this world are more
shrewd in their generation than the sons of light” (Luke 16:8b)? Explain.

3. Why is “mammon” (riches) called “unrighteous mammon” (Luke 16:9)?

4. Luke 16:9 presents various problems with the interpretation. Some believe the
“friends” mentioned in this verse are God the Father and the Son, while others
believe the “friends” are those who helped the unjust steward. How do you
understand this verse? Explain.

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5. Explain the two maxims found in Luke 16:10:
a. “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much.” (v. 10a)

b. “He who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.” (V. 10b)

6. What is the point Jesus is attempting to make in verse 11?

7. What is the “physical” or “earthly” application of verse 12, and what is the
“spiritual” or “heavenly” application?
a. Physical or earthly application:

b. Spiritual or heavenly application:

8. Why is it impossible to serve “two masters” (Luke 16:13)?

9. Why did the Pharisees deride Jesus (Luke 16:14-15)?

10. Explain the response Jesus gave the Pharisees (Luke 16:15).

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Twenty Nine
The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
(Luke 16:19-31)

Introduction:
There are doubts among various Biblical scholars and commentators as to whether the
story of the Rich Man and Lazarus is a parable or an actual account. Generally
speaking, do not use real characters. However, at least one of the characters in this
story is real -- Abraham. It seems quite likely that Lazarus was a real person as well, as
was the unnamed Rich Man. Jesus does not identify the Lazarus of this story (or
parable), but he could have been any beggar, since Lazarus was a common name
during the days of Jesus. Whether this is a parable or not does not change the truths
taught in these verses. Although many, like the Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons,
attempt to deny this as being a true story (because neither believe in a burning hell),
that doesn’t change the facts. Parables are an earthly story with a heavenly meaning.
They are stories or narratives taken from nature or from everyday human experiences.
Whether the story of The Rich Man and Lazarus is a parable or an actual event, it
teaches certain undeniable truths. First, judgment awaits everyone after death -- a
judgment in which some will be lost and some will be saved. Second, no one can
change their fate following death -- they are either saved eternally or lost eternally.
Finally, the dead do not return to warn the living -- we are warned from God’s Word
alone.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the two main characters of this parable (story) in life (Luke 16:19-20).

2. Describe the two main characters of this parable (story) in death (Luke 16:20-31).

3. How is the word “hades” used in the Scriptures, and how is it being used in this
parable (story)?

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4. What do the following verses tell you about the Rich Man’s fate:
a. Luke 16:24-25.

b. Luke 16:26.

c. Luke 16:27-28.

5. What is the central lesson we learn from the final statement of Jesus (Luke
16:31)?

6. Is this parable (story) saying all rich men will end up as this one? Explain.

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Thirty
The Parable of the Unprofitable Servant
(Luke 17:7-10)

Introduction:
On occasion, Jesus used the master-servant relationship to teach His disciples the
importance of service to God, as in the Parable of the Talents. On other occasions,
Jesus used abuses in the master-servant relationship to illustrate the wickedness of
those who should have been servants of God but served themselves instead, as in the
Parable of the Unmerciful Servant, and the Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers. In the
Parable of the Unprofitable Servant Jesus demonstrates an important lesson to His
disciples -- servants are not greater than their masters, and are expected to do
whatever they are commanded to do.

Questions to Consider:
1. The Parable of the Unprofitable Servant is preceded by a statement made by the
disciples regarding the need for greater faith and a reply given by Jesus (Luke
17:5-6). How do these verses connect with the Parable of the Unprofitable
Servant? Explain.

2. Jesus asked His disciples to first think of themselves as a master. Explain what a
master would normally expect from his servant (Luke 17:7-9).

3. Jesus then asked His disciples to think of themselves as servants. Explain how a
servant would normally view his duties (Luke 17:10).

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4. Is this parable intended to explain the proper attitude of masters or servants?
Explain your answer.

5. What does this parable teach us about our role as servants, and our reward for
what we do?

6. Examine the following passages of Scripture and explain what they teach about
earning or meriting salvation.
a. Titus 3:4-5.

b. Ephesians 2:4-9.

c. Isaiah 64:6.

7. If we cannot earn or merit salvation, and if it is solely by God’s grace, is obedience

necessary? Use the following passages of Scripture to explain your answer (John
14:15; John 15:10; 1 Corinthians 7:19b; 1 John 2:4; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10;
Hebrews 5:8-9; 1 Peter 4:17).

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Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Thirty One
The Parable of the Persistent Widow
(Luke 18:1-8)

Introduction:
In the eighteenth chapter of Luke, Jesus taught two parables on the subject of prayer.
The first is the Parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8), and the second is the
Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14). On another occasion,
Jesus also taught a parable about persistent prayer -- the Parable of the Friend at
Midnight (Luke 11:5-13). Persistence in prayer is obviously something Jesus wanted
His disciples to understand. The need for this kind of praying is just as important today
as it was in the days of Jesus. Too many lose heart and fail to pray as they ought.
Therefore, Jesus stressed the vital need to pray with determination and purpose.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the two main characters of this parable, and tell what you know about
each (Luke 18:2-3).

2. What was the difficulty this widow faced (Luke 18:2-4a)?

3. Why did the judge agree to hear her case (Luke 18:4b-5)?

4. This parable presents what is often called “an argument from the lesser to the
greater.” Explain the point Jesus was trying to make.

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5. What does this parable teach us about God’s avenging of His elect? Explain.

6. What did Jesus mean when He asked, “Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes,
will He really find faith on the earth” (Luke 18:8b)?

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Thirty Two
The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
(Luke 18:9-14)

Introduction:
Two important parables on the subject of prayer are found in the eighteenth chapter of
Luke. The first is the Parable of the Persistent Widow in which Jesus stressed the need
to be persistent in prayer and not to lose heart. In the second, the Parable of the
Pharisee and the Tax Collector, Jesus deals with another important factor in prayer --
having the proper attitude of heart. By means of contrast, Jesus presents two men in
prayer, one a Pharisee and the other a Tax Collector. Pharisees were proud of their
religious devotion and faithfulness to the traditions of the fathers, while Tax Collectors
were often regarded with contempt as traitors, extortioners and covetous thieves. The
key to understanding this parable is to closely examine the attitude of the heart of each
man. One man’s prayer accomplished nothing, while the other man went down to his
house justified.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe what you know about Pharisees.

2. Describe what you know about Tax Collectors.

3. Examine the prayer of each man and tell what you see.
a. The prayer of the Pharisee (Luke 18:11-12).

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 b. The Prayer of the Tax Collector (Luke 18:13).

4. What are the results of each prayer (Luke 18:14a)?

5. Part of the Pharisee’s problem was self-righteousness. What do you learn about
self-righteousness from the following passages?
a. Isaiah 64:6.

b. Luke 17:10.

c. Ephesians 2:8-10

d. Titus 3:3-5.

6. Another problem with the Pharisee was arrogance. What do you learn about
arrogance from the following passages?
a. Proverbs 8:13.

b. Proverbs 16:18.

c. Proverbs 29:23.

d. Luke 14:11.

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 e. James 2:1-9.

7. On another occasion, Jesus taught a wonderful lesson on humility (The Parable of

Taking the Lowest Place - Luke 14:7-11). What do the following passages teach
about humility?
a. Isaiah 57:15.

b. Isaiah 66:1-2.

c. Luke 1:46-55.

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Thirty Three
The Parable of the Minas
(Luke 19:11-27)

Introduction:
The parable of the Minas is similar in many respects to the Parable of the Talents
(Matthew 25:14-30). Both teach the need to be faithful in our service as we wait for
the Lord’s return. However, there are some differences between the two parables. Not
only do the details of each parable vary slightly, but the setting for each is also
different. In the Parable of the Minas, Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem shortly
before His triumphal entry which would mark the beginning of the final week before His
crucifixion. Some of His disciples were laboring under the misconception that the
kingdom was to appear immediately. Therefore, Jesus used this opportunity to correct
that error, and stress the need for His disciples to remain faithful until His eventual
return. There is an interesting historical setting to this parable. The story parallels an
actual event that occurred during the boyhood of Jesus. It concerns the time when
Archelaus, the son of Herod the Great, went to Rome to request his own kingdom in
Palestine. The kingdom would still be subject to Rome, but under the direct control of
Archelaus. Similar to the events in the parable, the appointment of Archelaus was
opposed by a delegation of his own subjects.

Questions to Consider:
1. Describe the events of the parable.

2. How does this parable explain that the kingdom of heaven would not appear
immediately (Luke 19:12)? Explain.

3. When did the Lord “receive” His kingdom (See: Acts 2:30-36; Ephesians 1:20-23;
1 Peter 3:22; Daniel 7:13-14)?

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4. What does this parable reveal about the role of the Lord’s disciples between His
departure and His return (Luke 19:13)? Explain your answer.

5. How does this parable portray the rejection of the Lord’s reign (Luke 19:14)?
Explain.

6. What does this parable teach about the time of reckoning or accounting that
awaits every Christian (Luke 19:15-26)? Explain.

7. What does this parable teach about the judgment awaiting those who do not
submit to Christ as King (Luke 19:27)? Explain.

Application:
What personal applications can we make from this parable?

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 Lesson Thirty Four
The Parable of Jesus - Conclusion

Introduction:
The parables of Jesus were stories or a narratives taken from nature or from everyday
human experiences. Most simply defined, they were an earthly story with a heavenly
meaning. They were intended to focus the listener’s attention on the attributes of the
kingdom of heaven -- the rule of Christ within the hearts of men and women
everywhere. The disciples of the Lord were blessed to learn “the mysteries of the
kingdom of heaven” because they had the right kind of attitude toward Jesus and His
teaching. But those whose hearts had been hardened by their own wickedness and
rebellion were kept from understanding the parables. Through the use of parables,
Jesus was simply attempting to separate truth-seekers from curiosity-seekers. Let’s see
what we have learned from the parables of Jesus.

Questions to Consider:
1. What do we learn about the character and nature of the kingdom from the
following parables (give only a one sentence summary of each parable):
a. The Parable of the Wheat and the Tares (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43)?

b. The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke
13:18-19)?

c. The Parable of the Leaven (Matthew 13:33; Luke 13:20-21)?

d. The Parable of the Growing Seed (Mark 4:26-29)?

e. The Parable of the Hidden Treasure, and the Parable of the Pearl of Great
Price (Matthew 13:44-46)?

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 f. The Parable of the Dragnet (Matthew 13:47-50)?

g. The Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Matthew 21:33-46; Mark 12:1-12;

Luke 20:9-20), the Parable of the Wedding Feast (Matthew 22:1-14), the
Parable of the Barren Fig Tree (Luke 13:6-9), and the Parable of the Great
Supper (Luke 14:15-24)?

2. What do we learn about the character of those who would be the disciples of the
kingdom from the following parables (give only a one sentence summary of each
parable):
a. The Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:3-9, 18-23; Mark 4:3-9, 13-20; Luke
8:4-8, 11-15)?

b. The Parable of the Householder (Matthew 13:51-52)?

c. The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant (Matthew 18:21-35)?

d. The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16)?

e. The Parable of the Two Sons (Matthew 21:28-32).

f. The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)?

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 g. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), and the Parable of the Minas
(Luke 19:11-27)?

h. The Parable of the Two Debtors (Luke 7:41-43)?

i. The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)?

j. The Parable of the Friend at Midnight (Luke 11:1-13), and the Parable of the
Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8)?

k. The Parable of the Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-21)?

l. The Parable of Taking the Lowest Place (Luke 14:7-11), and the Parable of
the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14)?

m. The Parable of the Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-15), and the Parable (Story) of
the Rich Man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31)?

n. The Parable of the Unprofitable Servants (Luke 17:7-10)?

3. What do we learn about the character or attributes of the King from the following
parables (give only a one sentence summary of each parable):
a. The Parable of the Lost Sheep (Luke 15:1-7), and the Parable of the Lost Coin
(Luke 15:8-10)?

b. The Parable of the Lost Son (the Prodigal Son) (Luke 15:11-32)?

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 c. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), and the Parable of the Minas
(Luke 19:11-27)?

4. What shall we do with what we have learned from the parables of Jesus (See:
Matthew 13:12-17)?

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