Kingdom Parables

In the interpretation of the parable, three elements must be considered.

The scope of the parable or the thing to be illustrated.

It is vital that the purpose of the parable stands out clearly in the mind of the interpreter. In his studies, he should not overlook the important helps found in the Bible.

• The occasion on which a parable is introduced may illustrate its meaning and bearing. Matthew 20:1 ff. is explained by 19:27; Matthew 25:14 ff., by verse 13; Luke 16:19-31 by the 14th verse.
• Cf. also Luke 10:29; 15:1,2; and 19:11, for the purpose of the following parables.
• The object of the parable may be expressly stated in the introduction, as in Luke 18:1.
• Certain expressions at the end of the parable also may explain its bearing. Cf. Matthew 13:49; Luke 11:9; 12:21.
• Again, a similar parable of similar import may point out the thing to be illustrated. Compare Luke 15:3 ff. with Matthew 18:12 ff. The 14th verse of Matthew contains a valuable hint.
• Often the interpreter must discover the purpose of a parable by the careful study of its context.

The figurative representation of the parable.

• After the scope of the parable is determined, the figurative representation calls for close examination.

The formal narrative that is meant both to reveal and conceal the truth must be analyzed carefully and all the necessary geographical, archaeological, and historical light, must be brought to bear upon it.

The exact point of comparison.

• Finally, the exact point of comparison must be detected. There is always some special aspect of the kingdom of God, some particular line of duty to be followed, or some danger to be shunned, which the parable seeks to exhibit.

Since the interpreter has not discovered this point, he cannot hope to understand the parable, and he should not explain the individual traits because these may be understood only under the light of the central idea.

The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. Matthew 13:1

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What House?

Matthew 12:1 Deuteronomy 23:25 Matthew 12:22-24

• This is the last miracle that Jesus does in the presence of the Pharisees.

Matthew 12:25-27 Acts 19:13-15

• Sceva was right there, and was doing what he had accused Jesus of doing.
• Jesus had to walk out of the house of Israel!

If he had not done so, Israel would have been divided and could not stand. Matthew 12:34

• Evil = Spiritual Blindness
• Speak Good Things = Dumb

It may be argued that the Kingdom Parables begin here. Matthew 12:43-45

• Jesus says, “You guys are just like this man. You have rejected me, your eyes were blind, and you could not speak good things.”
• “I have swept and garnished the house, but you have rejected me. When I go, these devils will come back to you.” Matthew 13:1
• This is the first time Jesus teaches by parables.

He has mentioned a few parables, but he has never before taught by them.




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Parable of The Sower

The Key

Matthew 13:3-10 Verse 9 is the key to this parable. This parable is the key to all parables.

• Jesus is establishing a foundational idea. Only the person who wishes to understand what he hears Jesus speaking will be given understanding.
• Only those who will receive the word will ever understand what Jesus is saying to them.

All other hearers do not want to understand what Jesus is saying, they only want to use his words against him.