Uses of Parables
¥How are parables used by Jesus et al?
To capture audienceÕs attention by questions, involvement, surprise, suspense.
To sneak by audiencesÕ defenses (e.g., 2 Samuel 12:1-4; Luke 7:41-43)
To impress a lesson vividly (Jeremiah 9:10-13; Luke 15:11-32)
To change oneÕs way of looking at a situation (e.g., Mark 3:10; Luke 15:11-32)
To mystify opponents (John 2:18-22; Matt 13:10)
To provoke further thought (Matt 13:51-52)