He Told Many Stories – Parables Part 1

ByJim Stephens

Scripture: Matthew 13

1 Later that same day Jesus left the house and sat beside the lake. 2 A large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat there and taught as the people stood on the shore. 3 He told many stories in the form of parables, such as this one: “Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seeds. 4 As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them. 5 Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. 6 But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn’t have deep roots, they died. 7 Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants. 8 Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted! 9 Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand.” (Matthew 13:1–9 NLT)

I have a friend who is a good story teller. I’ve heard some of his stories a few times now, but I don’t mind the repeats. I don’t even mind that some of the details of the story change from telling to telling. It’s fun to try and figure out how it’s going to come out this time. His stories are entertaining and sometimes even have a point!

Jesus told stories. Many of his stories were in the form of parables, a special kind of made up stories that compare a spiritual truth to a natural occurrence or situation. Because they are stories, people are able to picture the circumstances, even identify with the characters and feel the emotions of the participants. We can remember the stories. We can then connect to the truths or principles. We can learn life lessons.

Probable reactions to the story Jesus tells here:

  • Manager: That farmer should be more careful how he plants the seed! That stuff is expensive!
  • Farmer: That’s exactly what it’s like! You try to be so careful, but the seed just goes everywhere!
  • Ears to hear: That’s just how people respond to truth or to an opportunity. I wonder what kind of soil I am? God please help me to be good soil!

Prayer:

Father, Help me to have ears to hear and a heart to understand what you want me to learn! May I learn from Jesus’ stories and from my life experiences. Help me to be a very teachable follower of Jesus and a friend of sinners and a part of the Kingdom of God family. Thank you for your patience and kindness. I love you and I love your ways!