Matthew 13:1-52

This week's lesson covers Matthew 13:1-52... it is full of lessons taught in Parables... What is a Parable? Parables are stories that teach moral lessons or truths. These stories are true to life ever thought they are usually not factual. The word parable means parallel story.

How to Interpret a Parable:

1. Ask questions: Look for the answers within the text being studied.

• Why? Why did Jesus tell the parable?
• What? What event caused Jesus to tell a parable?

2. Look for the explanation of the parable. The best expository teacher in the world is Jesus... look for His exposition/explaination of the parable.

• Did the disciples as Jesus to explain it?
• If Jesus does not explain the parable ask:
  What is the application of the parable?
  What truth did it teach?
  What action should be taken?
  

3. Identify the relevant details!

• Ask "Does this detail reinforce the point of theme of the parable"?
• Remember - Some deatils given will be irrelevant to the main point or theme.
  

4. Remember context is king! It rules and always has the final word.

• All parables should be interpreted in light of the culture and time they are told and not based on today's culture.

5. Ask application questions.

• What does this parable teach me?
• Is there an action to take?
• A warning to be heeded?
• How can I apply this truth to my life?
  

Don't forget as you study this week to look for and mark words of comparison -Look for the words "like" or "as" - i.e. the kingdom of heaven is like

Discussion starters:

Did you see something new or fresh this week?
What was exciting to you?
What was challenging for you?
What parable was most interesting to you and why?

What verse was your key verse and how do you intend to apply it to your life? Never forget that the entire point of inductive Bible study is to teach us to observe the text, so that we can interpret it correctly, so that we can effectively apply it to our lives... the result should be LIFE CHANGE and a deeper more intimate relationship with God.

Happy Hunting!

"And if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding."Proverbs 2:3-6 NIV