How to use a Parable

 

    A parable is a form of story with multiple levels of connecting with people.  It can be used to teach someone something.  It is a good alternative to telling someone that they are wrong, ignorant, or stupid.  It gives them a chance to figure things out without drawing a lot of attention.

    Jesus used parables as his main source of education when it came to confrontation.  It has a way of making the angry person look stupid for being angry.  Jesus shows us how to use a parable in a way that will make a point and get someone's attention.

    Jesus was popular.  That means he was equally loved and hated.  He grabbed attention.  People were in awe.  Some wanted to be him or like him.  Some hated him because he was different, he called sin sin, or he because brought attention to the wrongs of the world.  He was always surrounded by people of all classes, sexes, and stages in life.  Everyone there had a need.  Everyone there needed something.  Jesus was there to show them the root of that need: a true relationship with God.

    Jesus used parables to try to teach about that need while connecting it with their everyday lives.  We have to figure something out in life for ourselves.  He will not tell you how to think or behave.  He only tells you what is best for you.  It may take time to digest one of his parables, but he always deciphered the ones that could not be deciphered on their own.  Mark believed that if you understood the parable of the sower, then it would open your eyes to all of Jesus' parables.  The sower was the key.

    The parables that Jesus used were secrets from Heaven. If you understand, then you are discovering great wisdom.  There are two types of people: those who hear and accept and those that hear and reject.  These secrets are priceless and he wants you to have it, but you have to accept it.  

    Jesus gave us the key to Heaven, so what will we do with it?  Will he horde it or go out and tell others how to have it?  Jesus had explained how it works.  Now we just have to have faith that it will work.  The smallest faith can grow into something huge.  It can give you peace in all the different storms of life.  It is trusting God to handle the impossible.

Mark 4