Faith & Reason Nexus

In Matthew 13:3, it is written, “He spoke many things to them in parables,” indicating that Jesus often used parables to teach profound spiritual truths.

Definition of Parable: A parable comes from the Greek word “parabole” (para-bow-lay), which can be understood in various ways:

1. “A placing of one thing beside another with a view to comparison”
   • This definition emphasizes the nature of parables as comparisons. Jesus uses familiar, everyday situations or objects (like a seed, a lamp, or a shepherd) to explain more abstract spiritual concepts.
2. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of N.T. Words:
   • Parables serve to place one thing beside another, allowing for clearer understanding by comparing the known with the unknown, the visible with the invisible, the earthly with the heavenly.
3. “A story that places one thing beside another for the purpose of teaching”
   • This interpretation stresses the teaching aspect of parables. They are not just stories for entertainment but are meant to impart moral or spiritual lessons.
4. “An earthly story with a heavenly meaning”
   • This classic definition summarizes the key nature of parables: they take something simple from daily life and convey a deeper, divine lesson. They help people understand complex spiritual truths in a tangible, relatable way.

In summary, parables are rich, layered stories that bridge the gap between the earthly and the spiritual, teaching eternal truths through simple, everyday examples.