How to Interpret Parables in the Bible
5 Helpful Questions to Guide Your Study
Unfortunately, Jesus does not give us the inside scoop on all of his parables. In these other instances there are a few simple questions that we can ask that will greatly assist us in faithfully reading and understanding the parables.
- What is the context of the parable? If Jesus is teaching about serving and then tells a parable, there is a really good chance the parable is related to his teaching on serving.
- Who are the main characters in the parable? The main characters often represent people. Remember, the parables were told to clarify, not confuse, so the people represented in parables should not be too much of a mystery.
- Who or what gets the most space in the parable? Whatever gets the most attention is often the focus of the parable.
- Are there any obvious comparisons or contrasts? Jesus compares and contrasts true believers and unbelievers often in his parables.
- What happens at the end of the parable? Don’t jump to conclusions too quickly. Jesus often clarifies terms or points out what we should be focusing on at the end of his parables.
The parables were intended to make things simpler to understand, not more difficult.
It is tempting to look for hidden meanings or representations in parables, but this is not how Jesus communicated in parables. Rob Plummer said, “Jesus clearly used parables to convey specific, definable truths.” This makes our job easier. We do not have to try and figure out the secret meaning of the Good Samaritan; it really is as simple as, “Love your neighbor,” which is what Jesus said to those around him before he told the parable in Luke 10.
One of our goals is that this study will encourage you as we work through Jesus’ parables together, but ultimately our hope is that by taking part in this study, you would learn how to study the Word of God on your own. We hope and pray this study through the parables of Jesus sets you up for a lifetime of personal Bible study.
Feel free to use this as a personal study or work through these texts with a small group. The questions at the end are great for personal reflection or group discussion.