22 Parables In The Bible Examples 2

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a) Bloch  The little children Mark 10:13-16

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The parable of the little children is a story that Jesus told his disciples. In the story, some parents brought their children to Jesus so that he could bless them. The disciples rebuked the parents, telling them to keep their children away from Jesus, thinking that he was too busy to bother with them. But Jesus responded by saying, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." He then took the children in his arms and blessed them.

This parable is often interpreted as a lesson about the importance of having childlike faith. Jesus is saying that the kingdom of heaven is open to those who have a simple and trusting faith like that of a child. He is also challenging the disciples' attitudes towards children, reminding them that children are valued and loved by God just as much as adults are.

Additionally, this parable can be seen as a call to Christians to be welcoming and inclusive, especially to those who may be seen as vulnerable or marginalized. It reminds us that we should not judge or exclude others based on their age, social status, or any other factors, but rather we should welcome all who come to us with open arms, just as Jesus did with the children.

b) The Sower Matt 13:1-23

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The parable of the Sower is one of the most well-known parables that Jesus taught. It is a story that uses familiar imagery of farming to convey deeper spiritual truths about the human heart and the response to the gospel message. The story is told in a way that is easy to understand but also contains layers of meaning for those who are willing to dig deeper.

The parable starts with a farmer who went out to sow seeds in his field. As he sows the seed, some of it falls on the path, some on rocky ground, some among thorns, and some on good soil. Each type of soil represents a different kind of heart condition that people can have towards the message of the gospel.

The first type of soil is the path, which represents people who are hardened to the gospel message. They may hear it, but they don't understand it, or they reject it outright. The devil comes and snatches the message away before it can take root in their hearts. These people are like the Pharisees who heard Jesus' teachings but refused to believe in him. In todays word, these are the scoffers, highly intelligent people, that scoff at virtue and absolute moral values, calling it the abode of the simple.

The second type of soil is the rocky ground, which represents people who receive the gospel message with joy at first, but they have no root in themselves. When trouble or persecution comes because of the message, they quickly fall away. These people are like those who show an initial interest in Christianity but later lose interest when they face difficulties or opposition.

The third type of soil is among thorns, which represents people who hear the gospel message but are more concerned with the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth. The message is choked by these worldly distractions, and they are unfruitful. These people are like those who are too preoccupied with material possessions or success to take the message of the gospel seriously.

Finally, the fourth type of soil is good soil, which represents people who hear the gospel message, understand it, and live it out in their lives. They are productive and fruitful, yielding a hundred, sixty, or thirty times what was sown. 

The parable of the Sower teaches us that the success of the gospel message is not solely dependent on the messenger but also on the receptivity of the listener. The condition of the heart is crucial in receiving and living out the message. It also reminds us that we need to be careful about the distractions and worries of this life that can choke the message and hinder its impact on our lives. 

c) Tissot Parable of the barren fig tree Luke 13:6-9

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 In the parable, a man had a fig tree in his vineyard that had not produced any fruit for three years. He told the gardener to cut it down, but the gardener asked for one more year to cultivate the tree and see if it would bear fruit. If it still did not bear fruit after that, then it could be cut down.

This parable can be interpreted in a few different ways, but one common interpretation is that the fig tree represents Israel, and the man and the gardener represent God. In this interpretation, the parable is a warning to Israel that they must bear fruit or face judgment.

Israel was God's chosen people, but they had been disobedient and unfaithful. They were not living up to their calling to be a holy nation and a light to the Gentiles. Instead, they had become like the barren fig tree, not producing any fruit.

God had been patient with Israel for a long time, but now judgment was looming. The man's command to cut down the tree represents the judgment that was coming. However, the gardener's request for one more year represents God's mercy and grace, giving Israel one more chance to repent and bear fruit.

The gardener's plan to cultivate the tree represents God's efforts to bring Israel back to Him. This could include sending prophets to speak to them, providing opportunities for repentance and forgiveness, and even sending Jesus as their Messiah.

The parable ends with a warning that if Israel does not bear fruit after this final chance, then judgment will come. This is a reminder that God's patience and mercy have limits, and there will be consequences for disobedience and unfaithfulness.

Overall, the parable is a call to repentance and a warning of judgment for those who do not bear fruit in general. Today we have Jesus teachings and the teachings of the bible in general; bear fruit!

d) Champaigne The good shepherd John 10:1-5

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The parable of the Good Shepherd is used to illustrate Jesus' relationship with his followers.

Jesus compares himself to a good shepherd who cares for his sheep. The shepherd enters the sheep pen by the gate and calls his own sheep by name. The sheep recognize the voice of the shepherd and follow him out of the pen. They do not follow strangers, because they do not recognize them. This parable teaches that Jesus is the true and good shepherd who cares for his followers. Just as a shepherd cares for his sheep, Jesus cares for his followers and protects them from harm.

Secondly, the parable emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus' voice. Just as the sheep recognize the voice of their shepherd and follow him, we should also listen for and recognize Jesus' voice (teachings) in our lives. This means we need to spend time with him in prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking his guidance and direction.

Lastly, the parable reminds us that there are many voices in the world that can distract and deceive us. We need to be discerning and wise in recognizing which voices to follow and which to avoid. We should follow only the voice of the good shepherd, who leads us on the path of righteousness.

f) Fetti  The vineyard workers Matt 20:1-16

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In the parable, a landowner went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. He agreed to pay them a denarius for the day's work. Later in the day, he hired more workers at different times and promised to pay them whatever is right. When evening came, the landowner paid all the workers the same amount, regardless of how long they had worked. Those who had worked longer complained, but the landowner reminded them that they had agreed to work for a denarius and that he had paid them what he had promised.

This parable represents the kingdom of heaven and God's grace. In this interpretation, the landowner represents God, and the workers represent people who enter the kingdom of heaven at different times in their lives. The denarius represents the reward of eternal life.

The workers who were hired early in the morning represent those who have been faithful to God throughout their lives, while those who were hired later represent those who come to faith in God later in life.

The fact that the landowner pays all the workers the same amount regardless of how long they worked represents God's grace. The reward of eternal life is not based on how long someone has been faithful to God or how much they have accomplished in their lives, but rather it is a free gift given to all who enter the kingdom of heaven, regardless of when they come to faith.

The workers who had worked longer and received the same payment represent those who believe that they are more deserving of God's grace because of their long-standing faith or their accomplishments in life. However, the landowner's response to their complaint shows that God's grace is not earned or deserved, but freely given to all who believe in Him.

Overall, the parable is a reminder of God's grace and the fact that salvation is a gift given to all who believe in Him, regardless of when they come to faith or what they have accomplished in life. It also reminds us not to compare ourselves to others or think that we are more deserving of God's grace because of our works.

The interpretation is all well and good however we can't ignore the fact that it seems unfair. Mother Teresa for instance can in no way, at least based on my mortal thinking, be compared to the thief at Jesus right hand. She was devout for many years and produced much fruit; he on the other hand repented only at the point of death. It seems fair that everyone should have access to the Kingdom, however being a Kingdom, it seems reasonable to imagine that we all hold different positions depending on our devotion and fruitfulness.

g) Fetti The lost drachma Luke 15:8-10

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In the parable, a woman had ten drachmas, but she lost one of them. She searched her entire house until she found the lost coin, and then she called her friends and neighbors to rejoice with her.

This parable can be interpreted in a few different ways, but one common interpretation is that it represents God's love for the lost and His joy when they are found. In this interpretation, the woman represents God, and the lost drachma represents a sinner who is lost and separated from God. The fact that the woman searches her entire house until she finds the lost coin represents God's relentless pursuit of the lost.

The woman's joy when she finds the lost coin and calls her friends to rejoice with her represents God's joy when a sinner repents and turns back to Him. The fact that she calls her friends and neighbors to celebrate with her shows that there is rejoicing in heaven when a sinner repents.

The fact that the woman had ten drachmas to begin with  represents the fact that God's love is not limited or exclusive, but rather He loves all people equally and desires for all to be saved. Each Drachma is loved in equal measure and no stone will be left unturned in trying to bring any lost one back to the fold.

Overall, the parable is a reminder of God's love for the lost and His desire for all people to be saved. 

h) Fetti Parable of the pearl Matt 13:35-46

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The parable of the pearl is found in Matthew 13:45-46. In the parable, a merchant was searching for fine pearls, and he found one pearl of great value. He sold everything he had and bought the pearl. The pearl represents the kingdom of heaven and the worth of following Jesus.

In this interpretation, the merchant represents a person who is searching for truth, meaning, and purpose in life. The pearl of great value represents the kingdom of heaven, which is the ultimate treasure that surpasses any worldly possessions or pursuits.

The fact that the merchant sold everything he had to buy the pearl represents the cost of following Jesus and entering the kingdom of heaven. It requires total commitment, sacrifice, and surrender of all worldly attachments and pursuits.

Overall, the parable is a reminder of the worth of following Jesus and entering the kingdom of heaven. It requires total commitment and sacrifice, but the reward of possessing the most valuable and priceless treasure is worth it.

i) Fetti The mote and beam Matt 7: 3-5 

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In the parable, Jesus said, "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye."

This parable can be interpreted in a few different ways, but one common interpretation is that it represents the importance of examining our own faults before criticizing others.

In this interpretation, the speck of sawdust in our brother's eye represents the faults and shortcomings of others that we tend to notice and criticize. The plank in our own eye represents our own faults and shortcomings that we are blind to or choose to ignore.

The fact that Jesus instructs us to first take the plank out of our own eye before trying to remove the speck from our brother's eye represents the importance of self-examination, repentance, and humility. We must be willing to acknowledge and take responsibility for our own faults before we can help others with theirs.

Overall, the parable calls us to repentance and humility, and reminds us that we are all in need of grace and forgiveness.

j) The unmerciful servant Matt 18:21-35

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The Parable is a powerful story that teaches us about forgiveness and the importance of showing mercy to others.

In the parable, a servant owed his master a great deal of money, which he was unable to pay. The master ordered that the servant and his family be sold into slavery to pay off the debt. The servant begged for mercy and promised to pay back the debt, so the master forgave him and canceled the debt.

However, when the servant encountered another servant who owed him a small amount of money, he demanded payment and refused to show him any mercy. When the master found out about this, he was angry and had the unmerciful servant thrown into prison until he could pay back everything he owed.

The moral of the story is that we should forgive others as we have been forgiven. The first servant was forgiven a huge debt that he could never repay, yet he was unwilling to show even a small amount of mercy to someone who owed him a much smaller debt. This is a powerful reminder that we should always show kindness and mercy to others, even when they have wronged us.

The Parable teaches us that forgiveness is not only an act of mercy but also a duty. If we want to receive forgiveness, we must be willing to give it to others, even when it is difficult. It is a powerful lesson that reminds us of the importance of treating others with compassion and understanding, no matter what their circumstances may be.

k)  Parable of the rich fool Luke 12:13-21 

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In the parable, a wealthy man had an abundant harvest and decided to tear down his barns and build bigger ones to store all his grain and goods. He planned to relax and enjoy his wealth for many years to come, thinking that he had secured his future.

However, God spoke to him and told him that he was a fool for thinking that his wealth could guarantee him a long and comfortable life. He would die that very night, and all his wealth would be of no use to him.

The moral of the story is that material possessions and wealth are temporary and can be taken away at any moment. The rich man in the parable was so focused on accumulating more and more wealth that he forgot to consider the bigger picture of his life and what he truly valued.

The Parable reminds us that true wealth comes from a life well-lived, not from the accumulation of possessions. It encourages us to focus on what really matters in life, such as our relationships, our values, and our purpose, rather than solely on acquiring material goods.

Ultimately, the story teaches us to be grateful for what we have, to use our wealth wisely, and to always keep in mind that our time on earth is limited. We should strive to make the most of our lives, to be generous with our resources, and to live in a way that honors our values and our relationship with God.

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21 Parables In The Bible Examples 1

Our Parables In The Bible Examples app has about 1,000 paintings by master painters found in museums and galleries all over the world. We hope you enjoy the experience, both on this page and in the app.

a) Rembrandt Prodigal son in the tavern Luke 15:11-32

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Rosa- Prodigal son Luke 15:11-32

Slevogt- Return of the prodigal son Luke 15:11-32

Batoni - Prodigal son 

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The parable begins with a wealthy man who had two sons. The younger son approaches his father and asks for his share of the inheritance. In ancient Jewish culture, this was considered very disrespectful, as the father was still alive and dividing the inheritance would usually occur after his death. However, the father agrees to his son's request and divides his property between the two sons.

The younger son then goes to a distant country and spends all his money on reckless living. He indulges in sinful behaviour and eventually finds himself completely broke during a famine. In his desperation, he takes a job feeding pigs, which was considered unclean and shameful in Jewish culture.

The younger son finally comes to his senses and decides to return home and ask his father's forgiveness, even if it meant becoming a servant in his household. As he nears home, his father sees him from a distance and runs to him, embracing and kissing him.

The father then orders his servants to bring a robe, a ring, and sandals for his son, symbolizing his reinstatement as a son and not a servant. The father also orders a feast to be prepared, celebrating the return of his lost son.

The older son, who had stayed faithful to his father and worked hard on the family farm, becomes angry and refuses to enter the celebration. The father goes out to plead with him, explaining that it is only right to celebrate and be joyful because the younger son was lost and is now found.

The parable concludes with the father saying, "My son, you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found."

The parable teaches several lessons, including the power of forgiveness, the importance of repentance, and the unconditional love of a father. It also illustrates the danger of pride and self-righteousness, as the older son's jealousy and anger cloud his ability to see the value of his brother's return.

b) Steen The Richman and Lazarus Luke 16:19-31

Fetti - Lazarus and the Richman Luke 16:19-31

Bronnikov - Lazarus and the rich man Luke 16:19-31

The rich man in hell reaches out to Lazarus in heaven

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The parable is a story that illustrates the stark contrast between the rich and the poor, and the consequences of one's actions. It begins by introducing two characters: a rich man and a poor man named Lazarus. The rich man is described as being dressed in fine clothes and living in luxury, while Lazarus is depicted as being covered in sores and lying at the rich man's gate, hoping to receive some crumbs from the rich man's table.

As the story unfolds, both men die, and their fates are revealed. Lazarus is taken to Abraham's bosom (heaven as described by the Jews) , a place of honor and rest in the afterlife, while the rich man is sent to Hades, a place of torment and suffering.

The rich man, realizing the gravity of his situation, pleads with Abraham to have mercy on him and send Lazarus to cool his tongue with a drop of water. Abraham explains that there is a great chasm separating the two realms, and no one can cross from one to the other.

The rich man then begs Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his five brothers, so they may avoid the same fate. Abraham responds that they have Moses and the prophets, and if they do not listen to them, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead (Jesus is referring to his death and resurrection).

The parable warns against the dangers of wealth and neglecting the poor. The rich man's fate is a consequence of his selfishness and lack of concern for Lazarus, whereas Lazarus is rewarded for his faithfulness and suffering. It also emphasizes the importance of listening to the teachings of the prophets and following God's commandments.

In summary, the parable of the rich man and Lazarus is a powerful reminder of the consequences of our actions in life and the importance of treating others with compassion and kindness, regardless of their social status.

c) Strozzi The guardian angel Matt 18:10

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Guardian angels are spiritual beings that are believed to be assigned by God to watch over and protect individual human beings. The idea of guardian angels is found in various religious traditions, including Christianity.

In the Bible, Jesus does not specifically mention the concept of guardian angels, but he does make several references to the care and protection that God provides to his people. For example, in Matthew 18:10, Jesus says, "See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that in heaven their angels always see the face of my Father who is in heaven."

This passage suggests that every child has an angelic protector who constantly watches over them and is always in the presence of God. Similarly, in Luke 16:22, Jesus tells the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, in which Lazarus is carried by angels to Abraham's bosom after his death.

While Jesus did not give detailed instructions about how to communicate with or relate to guardian angels, some Christians believe that they can pray to their guardian angels for guidance, protection, and support. Others view the concept of guardian angels as a symbolic representation of God's constant care and concern for his people.

Overall, the idea of guardian angels is a source of comfort and reassurance for many people, reminding them that they are never truly alone and that God is always watching over them.

d) The pharisee and the publican Luke 18:9-14 

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 The Parable of the Pharisee and the Publican is a story told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke 18:9-14. It is a powerful illustration of the importance of humility and the dangers of pride.

The parable begins with two characters: a Pharisee and a tax collector, or publican. The Pharisee was a member of a Jewish sect that emphasized strict adherence to the law and the traditions of the elders. The tax collector, on the other hand, was despised by many Jews because he worked for the occupying Roman government and often engaged in corrupt practices to enrich himself.

The Pharisee stands in the temple and prays, thanking God that he is not like other people, including the tax collector. He boasts of his religious observances and his superiority to others. In contrast, the tax collector stands at a distance, beating his breast and praying for mercy, acknowledging his sins and unworthiness before God.

Jesus concludes the parable by saying that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, went home justified before God, because "all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted."

The Parable teaches several important lessons. First, it warns against the dangers of pride and self-righteousness, which can lead to a false sense of superiority and a lack of empathy for others. It also emphasizes the importance of humility, acknowledging one's own weaknesses and sins, and seeking God's mercy and forgiveness. Additionally, the parable challenges the common assumptions of Jesus' time about who was righteous and who was not. The Pharisee, who was respected and admired by many, is shown to be spiritually bankrupt, while the despised tax collector is portrayed as humble and repentant.

Overall, the Parable encourages us to adopt a posture of humility and grace in our relationships with others and in our approach to God.

e) Tissot The son of the vineyard Matthew 21:33-46

Fetti - The murderous winemakers 

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The Parable of the Son of the Vineyard, also known as the Parable of the Wicked Tenants, is a story told by Jesus in the synoptic gospels (Matthew 21:33-46, Mark 12:1-12, and Luke 20:9-19). It is a powerful allegory that exposes the religious leaders' rejection of Jesus' authority and their ultimate responsibility for his death.

The parable begins with a landowner who plants a vineyard, puts a hedge around it, and digs a winepress in it. He then leases the vineyard to some tenants and goes away on a journey. When the harvest season arrives, the landowner sends his servants to collect the produce. However, the tenants beat, mistreat, and even kill the servants.

Finally, the landowner sends his son, hoping that the tenants will respect him. However, the tenants see the son as a threat to their control and plot to kill him. 

In the parable's conclusion, Jesus asks his listeners what they think the landowner will do to the wicked tenants. The listeners reply that the landowner will punish the tenants severely and lease the vineyard to others who will give him his due.

Jesus then explains that the vineyard represents Israel, the tenants are the religious leaders who have rejected God's messengers, and the son is Jesus himself. Jesus is warning the religious leaders that they are responsible for rejecting God's message and that they will ultimately face judgment for their actions.

The Parable is a powerful critique of the religious establishment of Jesus' time, who are depicted as corrupt and power-hungry. It also emphasizes the importance of accepting God's message and following Jesus' teachings, rather than rejecting them out of pride, jealousy, or fear.

The parable's message is still relevant today, reminding us of our responsibility to be faithful stewards of God's gifts and to recognize Jesus' authority as the true vineyard owner. We must be vigilant against the temptation to control or manipulate others and instead strive to be faithful servants who bear fruit for the kingdom of God.

f) Tissot The good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37

Van Gogh - The good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37

Watts - Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37

Fetti - Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37

Hayman - Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37

Morot - The good samaritan Luke 10:25-37

Rembrandt - Good Samaritan Luke 10:25-37

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The Parable of the Good Samaritan is a story told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke 10:25-37. It is one of the most well-known and beloved parables of Jesus, and it teaches a powerful lesson about loving one's neighbour and the true meaning of compassion.

The story begins with a conversation between a Jewish lawyer and Jesus. The lawyer asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus responds by asking the lawyer what the law says. The lawyer answers, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind, and love your neighbour as yourself."

Jesus affirms the lawyer's response and tells him to do that, and he will live. However, the lawyer in wanting to test Jesus, asks him to clarify who his neighbour is. Jesus then tells the story of the Good Samaritan.

In the parable, a Jewish man is beaten, robbed, and left for dead on the side of the road. A priest and a Levite, both respected members of the Jewish community, pass by the injured man and do nothing to help him. Then, a Samaritan, a despised outsider, comes along and takes pity on the man. He bandages his wounds, takes him to an inn, and pays for his care.

At the end of the story, Jesus asks the lawyer who was a neighbour to the injured man. The lawyer answers, "The one who showed him mercy." Jesus then tells the lawyer to go and do likewise.

The Parable of the Good Samaritan teaches several important lessons. First, it emphasizes the importance of compassion and kindness toward others, especially those who are in need. It also challenges the listener to rethink their ideas about who is a neighbour and to recognize that compassion and mercy should extend to all people, regardless of their race, nationality, or social status.

Additionally, the parable challenges the idea that religious observance is more important than practical expressions of love and mercy. The priest and Levite, who were highly regarded members of the religious community, failed to help the injured man, while the despised Samaritan showed true compassion and mercy.

Overall, the Parable encourages us to be compassionate and merciful to those around us, even if they are different from us or despised by society. It challenges us to examine our own prejudices and assumptions and to recognize the dignity and worth of all people.

h) Valkenborch The lilies of the field Matthew 6:25-34

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The Parable of the Lilies, also known as the Parable of the Flowers or the Parable of the Birds, is a story told by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew 6:25-34. It is a beautiful and powerful reminder of God's care and provision for his children.

In the parable, Jesus tells his disciples not to worry about their lives, what they will eat, drink, or wear. He reminds them that life is more than food and clothing and points to the birds of the air and the lilies of the field as examples of God's care and provision.

Jesus tells his disciples that the birds do not sow, reap, or gather into barns, yet their heavenly Father feeds them. He then asks his listeners, "Are you not worth much more than they?" He goes on to point out that the lilies of the field do not toil or spin, yet even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed as beautifully as they are.

Jesus concludes the parable by urging his disciples not to worry about tomorrow but to seek first God's kingdom and righteousness. He promises that if they do so, all these things will be added to them.

The Parable is a powerful reminder of God's care and provision for his children. It teaches us that worry and anxiety are unnecessary because God provides for our needs. It also challenges us to prioritize seeking God's kingdom and righteousness above worldly concerns.

The parable's message is particularly relevant in today's fast-paced and materialistic world. We are often tempted to worry about our jobs, finances, and other concerns, but Jesus reminds us to trust in God's provision and to seek him above all else. The Parable also challenges us to appreciate the beauty of God's creation and to recognize the value and worth of every living creature. It reminds us that God cares for even the smallest and seemingly insignificant parts of his creation and calls us to do the same.

Overall, the Parable is a beautiful and inspiring story that teaches us to trust in God's care and provision, to seek him above all else, and to appreciate the beauty and worth of all His creation.

i) Varancx The blind leading the blind Luke 6:39-40

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The Parable of the Blind Leading the Blind is a story told by Jesus in the Gospel of Luke 6:39-40. It is a cautionary tale about the dangers of following those who are spiritually blind. The allusion to blindness is against the Pharisees, who while claiming to be teachers, are themselves blinded by their own self-righteousness, and guiding the people away from the teachings of the law and prophets. In today's world, the world is full of false teachers, who are wolves in sheep's clothing, enriching themselves at the expense of their followers and guiding them on false paths; a case in point is the prosperity gospel.

In the parable, Jesus uses a metaphor of a blind person leading another blind person. He asks, "Can a blind person lead a blind person? Will they not both fall into a pit?" Jesus then goes on to say that a disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher.

The parable is meant to illustrate the importance of having a good spiritual guide or mentor. Jesus warns his followers not to follow those who are spiritually blind because they will lead them astray. He emphasizes that a disciple will become like his teacher, so it is crucial to choose a wise and knowledgeable mentor who can lead them on the right path.

j) Wainwright Wise and foolish virgins Matt 25:1-13

Lipgart - Wise and foolish virgins Matt 25:1-13

Schadow- Wise and foolish virgins Matt 25:1-13

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The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins is a story told by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew 25:1-13. It is a cautionary tale about being prepared for the coming of the kingdom of God.

In the parable, ten virgins are waiting for the bridegroom to arrive at a wedding feast. Five of them are wise and bring enough oil for their lamps, while the other five are foolish and fail to. When the bridal party is delayed, all the virgins fall asleep. However, when the bridegroom finally arrives, only the five wise are ready with enough oil in their lamps. The foolish ask the wise to share some oil, but they refuse, telling them to go and buy their own. They leave to buy more oil, but while they are gone, the bridegroom and the wise virgins enter the wedding feast with him. When the foolish return, the door is already closed, and they are not allowed in.

The parable is meant to illustrate the importance of being prepared for the coming of the kingdom of God. The bridegroom represents Jesus, who will return at an unexpected time. The wise virgins represent those who are prepared for his coming, while the foolish represent those who are not.

The oil in the lamps represents the preparation and readiness required to enter the kingdom of God. 

The Parable has important implications for our spiritual lives. It reminds us to have enough spiritual "oil" to keep our lamps burning. This means cultivating a relationship with God, living a life of faith and obedience, and staying vigilant and watchful.

k) Willem Parable of the talents Matt 25:14-30

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The Parable of the Talents is a story told by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew 25:14-30. It is a story about the wise and faithful use of the gifts and resources that God has given us.

In the parable, a man goes on a journey and entrusts his property to his servants. To one servant, he gives five talents, to another, he gives two, and to a third, he gives one. The servants who received five and two talents invest them and double their money. However, the servant who received one talent hides it in the ground.

When the master returns, he rewards the first two servants with praise and more responsibility. But the third servant is rebuked and punished. The master takes the one talent from him and gives it to the servant who had ten talents, saying, "For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away."

The parable is meant to illustrate the importance of using the gifts and resources that God has given us for his glory and kingdom. The faithful and wise use of these gifts will lead to further blessings and opportunities to serve God, while the neglect or misuse of these gifts will lead to spiritual poverty and loss.

The Parable challenges us to examine how we are using the gifts and resources that God has given us. Are we investing them wisely for his kingdom, or are we hiding them away in fear or apathy? It reminds us that God has entrusted us with these gifts and resources for a purpose, and it is our responsibility to use them faithfully and wisely.

Furthermore, the parable reminds us of the ultimate reward that awaits those who use their talents wisely. The master's praise and reward to the first two servants represent the joy and blessings that come from faithful service to God.

Overall, the Parable of the Talents is a powerful reminder of the importance of using our gifts and resources wisely for God's kingdom. It challenges us to examine our own stewardship of the resources that God has given us and encourages us to invest them wisely for his glory and honour.

We continue in the next post.

Enjoy!