Thematic Bible: Parables of
Thematic Bible
Fool » Parables of » Of the rich fool
He spoke an illustration to them: The land of a rich man produced well. He reasoned to himself, what will I do? I have nowhere to store my fruits? He said: I would pull down my barns and build larger barns. I will store all my grain and goods there. read more.
I will say to my self: 'You have many possessions saved for many years. Take it easy and eat, drink and be merry.' But God said to him: 'You fool this night you will give up your life. Then who will have all these things you accumulated?'
I will say to my self: 'You have many possessions saved for many years. Take it easy and eat, drink and be merry.' But God said to him: 'You fool this night you will give up your life. Then who will have all these things you accumulated?'
Fool » Parables of » Of the foolish virgns
The kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The foolish took no oil with their lamps. read more.
The wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. They all slept, because the bridegroom delayed his arrival. There was a shout at midnight. 'Here is the bridegroom! Come meet him.' The virgins awoke and trimmed their lamps. All the foolish virgins said to the wise: 'Give us your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise answered: 'There will not be enough for both of us. Go to the dealers and buy oil for yourself.' While they were away, the bridegroom came. They that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast and the door was shut. Later the other virgins came, saying: 'Lord, Lord, open to us.' But he told them: 'I do not know you.' Watch therefore, for you do not know the day or the hour.
The wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. They all slept, because the bridegroom delayed his arrival. There was a shout at midnight. 'Here is the bridegroom! Come meet him.' The virgins awoke and trimmed their lamps. All the foolish virgins said to the wise: 'Give us your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise answered: 'There will not be enough for both of us. Go to the dealers and buy oil for yourself.' While they were away, the bridegroom came. They that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast and the door was shut. Later the other virgins came, saying: 'Lord, Lord, open to us.' But he told them: 'I do not know you.' Watch therefore, for you do not know the day or the hour.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The sower
He told them many illustrations. He said: A farmer went out to sow. Some seeds fell by the roadside, and the birds devoured them. Others fell on rocky places and did not have much soil. read more.
When they grew, the sun scorched them, and because they had no root they withered and died. Others fell upon the thorns. The thorns grew up and choked them. Some fell on good ground and yielded fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty. He that has ears let him hear.
When they grew, the sun scorched them, and because they had no root they withered and died. Others fell upon the thorns. The thorns grew up and choked them. Some fell on good ground and yielded fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixty, and some thirty. He that has ears let him hear.
The farmer went out to sow his seed. As he sowed some fell by the side of the road. It was trampled under foot and the birds of heaven devoured it. Other seed fell on the rock. As soon as it grew it withered away because it had no moisture. Still other seed fell among the thorns. The thorns grew with it, and choked it. read more.
Other seed fell on the good ground. It grew and produced fruit a hundredfold. As he said these things he cried. He said: He who has ears to hear let him hear.
Other seed fell on the good ground. It grew and produced fruit a hundredfold. As he said these things he cried. He said: He who has ears to hear let him hear.
Listen to the illustration of the sower. When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand, the evil one takes away that which was sown in his heart. This is what was sown by the roadside. Anyone sown among the rocky places hears the word and immediately with joy receives it. read more.
There is no root in him. He endures for a while. When he has tribulation or persecution because of the word, he falls away. He that was sown among thorns hears the word. The cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. He that was sown upon the good ground hears the word, and understands it. He bears fruit, producing sometimes a hundredfold, sometimes sixty, and sometimes thirty.
There is no root in him. He endures for a while. When he has tribulation or persecution because of the word, he falls away. He that was sown among thorns hears the word. The cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. He that was sown upon the good ground hears the word, and understands it. He bears fruit, producing sometimes a hundredfold, sometimes sixty, and sometimes thirty.
Again he taught a very great crowd by the seaside. He sat in a boat while the crowd was on the land. He taught them many things by illustrations and said to them: Listen, the sower went out to sow. read more.
As he sowed some seed fell by the road and the birds came and devoured it. Other seed fell on the rocky ground and did not have good soil. Immediately it sprang up, because it had no good soil it became scorched when the sun came up. Then it withered because it had no root. Some seed fell among the thorns. The thorns grew up and choked it so it could yield no fruit. Others fell on good ground and yielded fruit. It grew up, increased and produced thirty fold, and sixty fold, and a hundred fold. He continued: He who has ears to hear let him hear.
As he sowed some seed fell by the road and the birds came and devoured it. Other seed fell on the rocky ground and did not have good soil. Immediately it sprang up, because it had no good soil it became scorched when the sun came up. Then it withered because it had no root. Some seed fell among the thorns. The thorns grew up and choked it so it could yield no fruit. Others fell on good ground and yielded fruit. It grew up, increased and produced thirty fold, and sixty fold, and a hundred fold. He continued: He who has ears to hear let him hear.
The sower sows the word. These are they by the wayside where the word is sown. When they have heard; Satan comes and takes away the word that has been sown in them. The same is so of the word sown upon the rocky places. When they have heard the word and receive it with joy, read more.
they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while. They stumble when tribulation or persecution arise. There is the word sown among the thorns. These have heard the word, but the cares of the world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts for other things enter in and choke the word. So it becomes unfruitful. Those who represent that sown upon the good soil hear the word and accept it. They bear fruit, thirty fold, and sixty fold, and a hundred fold.
they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while. They stumble when tribulation or persecution arise. There is the word sown among the thorns. These have heard the word, but the cares of the world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts for other things enter in and choke the word. So it becomes unfruitful. Those who represent that sown upon the good soil hear the word and accept it. They bear fruit, thirty fold, and sixty fold, and a hundred fold.
Now the illustration is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the side of the road are they who have heard. Then the devil comes and takes the word from their hearts that they may not believe and be saved. Those on the rock are those who receive the word with joy. These have no root. They believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. read more.
The seeds that fell among the thorns are people who hear the word and go their own way. They are choked with the cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and do not produce fruit. The good ground represents the honest and good-hearted people. They hear the word, hold fast to it and produce forth fruit with patience.
The seeds that fell among the thorns are people who hear the word and go their own way. They are choked with the cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and do not produce fruit. The good ground represents the honest and good-hearted people. They hear the word, hold fast to it and produce forth fruit with patience.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The mustard seed
In another illustration Jesus said: The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man sowed in his field. Mustard seed is the smallest of all seeds. Yet when it grows it becomes as large as a tree. In fact the birds of heaven lodge in the branches.
Jesus continued: To what shall I compare the Kingdom of God? What is it like? It is like this. A man plants a mustard seed in his field. The plant grows and becomes a tree. The birds make their nests in its branches.
He said: What illustration should we use to picture the kingdom of God? What story will make it clear? It is like a grain of mustard seed. When it is planted in the earth it is smaller than all the seeds on the earth. But when it is planted it grows and becomes taller than all the plants. It grows out great branches so that the birds of heaven are able to take rest in its shade.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The evil sharecroppers
He taught them with illustrations: A man had a vineyard planted. He built a wall around it. He prepared a place for crushing out the wine and put up a tower. Then he rented it out to field workers, and went into another country. During the season he sent a servant to the field workers that he might receive the fruits of the vineyard. They beat him and sent him away empty. read more.
Again he sent another servant and they treated him shamefully and wounded him in the head. He sent another and they killed him. He sent many others and some were beaten and some were killed. Last of all he sent his son saying: 'They will respect my son.' But those field workers said among themselves: This is the heir let us kill him and the inheritance shall be ours. They captured him and killed him. Then they cast his body out of the vineyard. What will the lord of the vineyard do? He will destroy the field workers and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this Scripture: 'The stone the builders rejected was made the chief corner stone.' (Psalm 118:22, 23) This was from Jehovah and it is marvelous in our eyes? (Psalm 118:23) They tried to capture him but feared the crowd. They perceived that he spoke the illustration against them. So they left him and went away.
Again he sent another servant and they treated him shamefully and wounded him in the head. He sent another and they killed him. He sent many others and some were beaten and some were killed. Last of all he sent his son saying: 'They will respect my son.' But those field workers said among themselves: This is the heir let us kill him and the inheritance shall be ours. They captured him and killed him. Then they cast his body out of the vineyard. What will the lord of the vineyard do? He will destroy the field workers and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this Scripture: 'The stone the builders rejected was made the chief corner stone.' (Psalm 118:22, 23) This was from Jehovah and it is marvelous in our eyes? (Psalm 118:23) They tried to capture him but feared the crowd. They perceived that he spoke the illustration against them. So they left him and went away.
Listen to another illustration. A master of a house made a vineyard, and put a wall around it. He made a wine press and built a tower. Then he rented it to workers and traveled to another country. When the time for the fruit came near, he sent his servants to the workmen, to get the fruit. The workmen attacked his servants, striking one with a stone and killing the other. read more.
He sent other servants more in number than the first. They did the same to them. Finally he sent his son to them, saying, 'Certainly they will respect my son.' When the workmen saw the son, they said, 'Let us put him to death and take his heritage, for someday he will own this property.' They took him out of the vineyard and killed him. When the lord of the vineyard returns, what will he do to the workmen? They all said: He will put those cruel men to death. Then he will find other workmen who are worthy and who will give him fruit when it is ready. Jesus said to them: Have you read the Scriptures, 'The stone the builders rejected has been made the chief cornerstone of the building. This was Jehovah's doing, and it is wonderful in our eyes.' (Isaiah 28:16) For this reason I tell you, The kingdom of God will be taken away from you. It will be given to a nation producing fruit. Any man falling on this stone will be broken. Any man having this stone fall on him will be crushed to dust.
He sent other servants more in number than the first. They did the same to them. Finally he sent his son to them, saying, 'Certainly they will respect my son.' When the workmen saw the son, they said, 'Let us put him to death and take his heritage, for someday he will own this property.' They took him out of the vineyard and killed him. When the lord of the vineyard returns, what will he do to the workmen? They all said: He will put those cruel men to death. Then he will find other workmen who are worthy and who will give him fruit when it is ready. Jesus said to them: Have you read the Scriptures, 'The stone the builders rejected has been made the chief cornerstone of the building. This was Jehovah's doing, and it is wonderful in our eyes.' (Isaiah 28:16) For this reason I tell you, The kingdom of God will be taken away from you. It will be given to a nation producing fruit. Any man falling on this stone will be broken. Any man having this stone fall on him will be crushed to dust.
He told the people an illustration: A man planted a vineyard. He rented it to tenants and went to another country for a long time. At harvest time he sent a servant to the renters to collect fruit of the vineyard. The renters beat him, and sent him away empty. He sent another servant who was also treated shamefully, beaten and sent away empty. read more.
A third servant was sent. They wounded him and threw him out. The owner of the vineyard said, what should I do? I will send my beloved son. Maybe they will respect him. When the renters saw him they reasoned that this is the heir, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. They threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. What will the owner of the vineyard do to them? He will come and destroy the renters and will give the vineyard to others. When they heard it, they said, God forbid! He looked at them and asked what does the scripture mean: The stone that the builders rejected the same was made the head of the corner? Every one that falls on that stone shall be broken to pieces. Every one the stone falls on will be scattered as dust.
A third servant was sent. They wounded him and threw him out. The owner of the vineyard said, what should I do? I will send my beloved son. Maybe they will respect him. When the renters saw him they reasoned that this is the heir, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. They threw him out of the vineyard and killed him. What will the owner of the vineyard do to them? He will come and destroy the renters and will give the vineyard to others. When they heard it, they said, God forbid! He looked at them and asked what does the scripture mean: The stone that the builders rejected the same was made the head of the corner? Every one that falls on that stone shall be broken to pieces. Every one the stone falls on will be scattered as dust.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The wise and foolish builders
Everyone who hears my words, and does them is like a wise man that builds his house on a rock. The rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat upon that house; and it did not fall. It was built on a solid rock foundation. Every one who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand. read more.
The rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew and battered the house and it fell with a great crash.
The rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew and battered the house and it fell with a great crash.
Every one who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you to whom he is like. He is like a man building a house. He dug and laid a deep foundation upon the rock. A flood sent a stream of water against the house and could not shake it because it was well built. He who hears but does not do is like a man who built a house upon the earth without a foundation. A flood will send a stream of water and immediately it will fall. The ruin of that house will be great.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The lost sheep
Then Jesus told them an illustration: If you have a hundred sheep and lose one of them, what do you do? You leave the other ninety-nine sheep in the pasture and go looking for the one you lost until you find it. When you find it you are happy. You carry it on your shoulders. read more.
You bring it back home. You invite your friends and neighbors together to celebrate. You say, 'I am so happy I found my lost sheep.' It is the same. I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine good people who do not need to repent.
You bring it back home. You invite your friends and neighbors together to celebrate. You say, 'I am so happy I found my lost sheep.' It is the same. I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine good people who do not need to repent.
What do you think? A man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone wandering away. Will he leave the ninety-nine and go in search of the wandering one? When he finds it, I tell you he will be filled with more joy than he would have if he had stayed with the ninety-nine. Even so, your Father in heaven does not want any of these little ones to be lost.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The fig tree leafing
Learn from the illustration of the fig tree. When the branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near.
Learn the illustration of the fig tree. When her branch is tender and she sprouts leaves you know summer is near. So when you see these things happening you know that he is near, even at the doors.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » Leaven (yeast)
He offered another illustration: The kingdom of heaven is similar to leaven. A woman hid leaven in three measures of meal until it was all leavened.
Again Jesus asked: With what should I compare the Kingdom of God? It is like this. A woman takes some yeast and mixes it with a bushel of flour. Soon the whole batch of dough rises.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The tares (darnel)
He told another illustration, saying: The kingdom of heaven is like a man that sowed good seed in his field. While he slept, his enemy came and sowed weeds with the wheat, and went away. When the blade sprouted and brought forth fruit, it looked like wheat. read more.
The servants of the householder said to him: 'Sir, did you sow good seed in your field? Why does it have weeds mixed in with the good wheat?' He replied: 'An enemy did this.' The servants offered to remove the weeds. He said: 'No, you might uproot the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest. In the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers: Gather weeds first, and bind them in bundles to burn them. Then gather the wheat into my barn.'
The servants of the householder said to him: 'Sir, did you sow good seed in your field? Why does it have weeds mixed in with the good wheat?' He replied: 'An enemy did this.' The servants offered to remove the weeds. He said: 'No, you might uproot the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest. In the time of the harvest I will say to the reapers: Gather weeds first, and bind them in bundles to burn them. Then gather the wheat into my barn.'
Then he left the crowds and went into the house. His disciples gathered near him. They said: Explain to us the illustration of the weeds in the field. Jesus said: He that sows the good seed is the Son of man. The field is the world (the society of mankind). The good seed are the sons of the kingdom. The weeds are the sons of the evil one. read more.
The enemy that sowed them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age. The reapers are angels. The weeds are gathered up and burned (destroyed) with fire. It will be this way at the end of the age. The Son of man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all who stumble others and commit lawlessness. The angels will cast them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. The righteous will shine as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He that has ears let him hear.
The enemy that sowed them is the Devil. The harvest is the end of the age. The reapers are angels. The weeds are gathered up and burned (destroyed) with fire. It will be this way at the end of the age. The Son of man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all who stumble others and commit lawlessness. The angels will cast them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. The righteous will shine as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He that has ears let him hear.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The prodigal son and his older brother
Jesus said: A man had two sons. The younger one said to him, Father I want my share of the property. He divided his property between his two sons. In a short time the younger son sold his share of the property. He left home with the money and traveled to a far away country where he wasted his money in reckless living. read more.
He spent everything! When a famine spread over that country he was left with nothing. He went to work for a citizen of that country who sent him to his farm to take care of the pigs. He wanted to eat the Carob bean pods the pigs ate, but no one gave him anything to eat. Finally it dawned on him, my father's hired workers have more than they can eat and I am about to starve! I will go to my father and say: 'Father I have sinned against God and against you. I am not fit to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired workers.' He went to his father. He was a long way from home when his father saw him. His heart filled with pity. He ran and threw his arms around his son and kissed him. Father, the son said: 'I have sinned against God and against you. I am not fit to be called your son.' The father called his servants. He said: 'Hurry and bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet. Get the prize calf and kill it. Let us celebrate with a feast! My son was dead. Now he is alive. He was lost. Now he has been found. The feasting began.' The older son was out in the field. When he came close to the house he heard music and dancing. He asked one of the servants what was happening? Your brother returned home, the servant answered. Your father killed the prize calf because he has returned safely. The older brother was so angry he would not enter the house. His father came out and begged him to come in. He spoke to his father in anger. All these years I have worked like a slave for you. I have never disobeyed you. What have you given me? Not even a goat for me to have a feast with my friends! This son of yours wasted all your property on prostitutes. When he comes home you kill the prize calf for him! The father answered, My son, you are always here. And everything I have is yours! We had to celebrate and be happy. Your brother was dead. Now he is alive! He was lost and now he has been found!'
He spent everything! When a famine spread over that country he was left with nothing. He went to work for a citizen of that country who sent him to his farm to take care of the pigs. He wanted to eat the Carob bean pods the pigs ate, but no one gave him anything to eat. Finally it dawned on him, my father's hired workers have more than they can eat and I am about to starve! I will go to my father and say: 'Father I have sinned against God and against you. I am not fit to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired workers.' He went to his father. He was a long way from home when his father saw him. His heart filled with pity. He ran and threw his arms around his son and kissed him. Father, the son said: 'I have sinned against God and against you. I am not fit to be called your son.' The father called his servants. He said: 'Hurry and bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and shoes on his feet. Get the prize calf and kill it. Let us celebrate with a feast! My son was dead. Now he is alive. He was lost. Now he has been found. The feasting began.' The older son was out in the field. When he came close to the house he heard music and dancing. He asked one of the servants what was happening? Your brother returned home, the servant answered. Your father killed the prize calf because he has returned safely. The older brother was so angry he would not enter the house. His father came out and begged him to come in. He spoke to his father in anger. All these years I have worked like a slave for you. I have never disobeyed you. What have you given me? Not even a goat for me to have a feast with my friends! This son of yours wasted all your property on prostitutes. When he comes home you kill the prize calf for him! The father answered, My son, you are always here. And everything I have is yours! We had to celebrate and be happy. Your brother was dead. Now he is alive! He was lost and now he has been found!'
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The servants waiting for their lord
Gird your loins (strengthen yourselves) and light your lamps. Be like men looking for their master to return. He will knock when he returns from the marriage feast, and it will immediately be opened to him. Those servants are blessed, for the master will find them alert when he comes. I tell you he will tighten his belt, have them sit down at the table, and he will serve them the meal. read more.
Even if he comes in the second watch or the third and he finds the same his servants are blessed. Know this, that if the master of the house had known in what hour the thief was coming he would have watched. He would not have allowed his house to be broken into. You be ready! The Son of man will come at a time when you do not think he will.
Even if he comes in the second watch or the third and he finds the same his servants are blessed. Know this, that if the master of the house had known in what hour the thief was coming he would have watched. He would not have allowed his house to be broken into. You be ready! The Son of man will come at a time when you do not think he will.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The rich man and lazarus
A rich man dressed in the most expensive clothes and lived in great luxury every day. A poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, used to be brought to the rich man's door. He hoped he could eat the bits of food that fell from the rich man's table. Then the dogs would come and lick his sores. read more.
The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man died and was buried. He was in great torment in the grave (hades). He looked up and saw Abraham, far away, with Lazarus at his side. He called out: Father Abraham! Take pity on me! Please send Lazarus to dip his finger in some water and cool off my tongue. I am in torment in this fire! Abraham said: Remember, my son, in your lifetime you were given good things, while Lazarus got all the bad things. Now he is enjoying himself while you are in torment. There is a deep pit lying between us, so that those who want to cross over from here to you cannot do so. And no one can cross over to us from where you are. The rich man said: I beg you, father Abraham, send Lazarus to my father's house. Have him go warn my five brothers that they will not come to this place of torment. Abraham said: Your brothers have Moses and the prophets to warn them. They should listen to them. The rich man responded: It is not enough father Abraham! If someone from the dead went to them they would repent. Abraham said: If they would not listen to Moses and the prophets, they would not listen to someone from the dead.
The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man died and was buried. He was in great torment in the grave (hades). He looked up and saw Abraham, far away, with Lazarus at his side. He called out: Father Abraham! Take pity on me! Please send Lazarus to dip his finger in some water and cool off my tongue. I am in torment in this fire! Abraham said: Remember, my son, in your lifetime you were given good things, while Lazarus got all the bad things. Now he is enjoying himself while you are in torment. There is a deep pit lying between us, so that those who want to cross over from here to you cannot do so. And no one can cross over to us from where you are. The rich man said: I beg you, father Abraham, send Lazarus to my father's house. Have him go warn my five brothers that they will not come to this place of torment. Abraham said: Your brothers have Moses and the prophets to warn them. They should listen to them. The rich man responded: It is not enough father Abraham! If someone from the dead went to them they would repent. Abraham said: If they would not listen to Moses and the prophets, they would not listen to someone from the dead.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The pearl of great price
The kingdom of heaven is also like a merchant seeking valuable pearls. When he found one pearl of great value, he sold all that he had, and bought it.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The unmerciful servant
The kingdom of heaven is like a king who went over his accounts with his servants. First, one came to him who owed him ten thousand talents. He was not able to make payment. So his lord gave orders for him to be sold. His wife, sons, and daughters were all to be sold along with every possession. The money would be used for payment of what he owed. read more.
So the servant fell on his face out of respect. He said: 'Lord, give me time to make payment and I will pay everything.' Being moved with pity, the lord let him go, and made him free of the debt. Then that servant met another servant who was in debt to him for one hundred denarii. He took him by the throat, saying, 'Pay your debt now.' That servant fell down before him, saying, 'Give me time and I will make payment to you.' He would not give him time. He put him into prison till he paid the debt. When the other servants saw what happened, they were very sad. They told their lord what had been done. His lord sent for him, and said: 'Evil servant; I made you free of all that debt, because of your request to me. Should you [also] show mercy to your fellow servant the same way I showed mercy to you?' His lord was angry and sent him to jail to be punished until he paid back all of his debt. My heavenly Father will treat you like that if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.
So the servant fell on his face out of respect. He said: 'Lord, give me time to make payment and I will pay everything.' Being moved with pity, the lord let him go, and made him free of the debt. Then that servant met another servant who was in debt to him for one hundred denarii. He took him by the throat, saying, 'Pay your debt now.' That servant fell down before him, saying, 'Give me time and I will make payment to you.' He would not give him time. He put him into prison till he paid the debt. When the other servants saw what happened, they were very sad. They told their lord what had been done. His lord sent for him, and said: 'Evil servant; I made you free of all that debt, because of your request to me. Should you [also] show mercy to your fellow servant the same way I showed mercy to you?' His lord was angry and sent him to jail to be punished until he paid back all of his debt. My heavenly Father will treat you like that if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The good shepherd
Truly I tell you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs up some other way is a thief and a robber. He who enters in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. The doorkeeper opens to him and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his sheep by name and leads them. read more.
When all of his own are out he leads them. The sheep follow him for they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger but will flee from him. They do not know the voice of a stranger. They did not understand this illustration Jesus spoke to them. Jesus explained: I am the door of the sheep. Thieves and robbers came in place of me but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If any man enters through me he will be saved. He will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes to steal, and kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired man owns no sheep. He is not the shepherd. He sees the wolf coming and abandons the sheep. The wolf snatches them, and scatters them. He leaves because he is a hired man and does not care for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me. Just as the Father knows me I know the Father! I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I will also bring them. They will hear my voice and they will become one flock, one shepherd.
When all of his own are out he leads them. The sheep follow him for they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger but will flee from him. They do not know the voice of a stranger. They did not understand this illustration Jesus spoke to them. Jesus explained: I am the door of the sheep. Thieves and robbers came in place of me but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If any man enters through me he will be saved. He will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes to steal, and kill, and destroy. I came that they may have life, and may have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired man owns no sheep. He is not the shepherd. He sees the wolf coming and abandons the sheep. The wolf snatches them, and scatters them. He leaves because he is a hired man and does not care for the sheep. I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me. Just as the Father knows me I know the Father! I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I will also bring them. They will hear my voice and they will become one flock, one shepherd.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The great supper
One of the guests at the table then said to Jesus: Those who sit down at the feast in the Kingdom of God will be happy! Jesus said: There was a man who gave a great feast to which he invited many people. He sent his servant to tell the guests that everything is ready. read more.
They all made excuses one after another. The first one told the servant: 'I bought a field and must go and look at it. Please accept my apologies.' Another said: 'I purchased five pairs of oxen and am on my way to try them out. Please accept my apologies.' Another explained: 'I am newly married and I cannot come.' The servant returned and conveyed this to his master. The master was furious. He commanded his servant to hurry into the streets and alleys of the town, and bring back the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame. The servant soon told his master, 'Your order has been carried out but there is still more room.' The master told the servant, 'Go to the country roads and lanes and make people come so my house will be full.' None of those who were invited will taste my dinner! He said.
They all made excuses one after another. The first one told the servant: 'I bought a field and must go and look at it. Please accept my apologies.' Another said: 'I purchased five pairs of oxen and am on my way to try them out. Please accept my apologies.' Another explained: 'I am newly married and I cannot come.' The servant returned and conveyed this to his master. The master was furious. He commanded his servant to hurry into the streets and alleys of the town, and bring back the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame. The servant soon told his master, 'Your order has been carried out but there is still more room.' The master told the servant, 'Go to the country roads and lanes and make people come so my house will be full.' None of those who were invited will taste my dinner! He said.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The drag net
The kingdom of heaven is like a net cast into the sea. It gathered fish of every kind. They drew it up on the beach when it was full. They gathered the good into containers and threw away the bad. It will be that way at the end of the age. The angels will come forth, and separate the wicked from among the righteous. read more.
The wicked will be cast into the furnace of fire where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
The wicked will be cast into the furnace of fire where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » Man taking a far journey
It is similar to a man traveling to another country. He leaves his house and gives authority to his servants to do the work. He commands them to watch. Watch therefore for you do not know when the lord of the house comes. It could be in the evening, at midnight or in the morning (when the cock crows). He could come suddenly and find you sleeping. read more.
What I say to you I say to all, be on the watch (be vigilant) (stay awake) (be circumspect) (attentive and ready)!
What I say to you I say to all, be on the watch (be vigilant) (stay awake) (be circumspect) (attentive and ready)!
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The good samaritan
Jesus answered: A man traveled from Jerusalem to Jericho. He fell among robbers. They stripped him, beat him and left him half dead. A priest traveled on that road. When he saw him he passed by on the other side. When a Levite came to the place he saw the man and passed by on the other side. read more.
Then a Samaritan arrived where he was. He was moved with compassion when he saw him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds pouring oil and wine on them. He set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn to take care of him. The next day he paid the host two shillings. He said take care of him and if you spend more I will repay you when I return. Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers? He said: The one who showed mercy to him. Jesus said to him: Go and you do like wise.
Then a Samaritan arrived where he was. He was moved with compassion when he saw him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds pouring oil and wine on them. He set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn to take care of him. The next day he paid the host two shillings. He said take care of him and if you spend more I will repay you when I return. Which of these three do you think proved to be a neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers? He said: The one who showed mercy to him. Jesus said to him: Go and you do like wise.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The rich fool
He spoke an illustration to them: The land of a rich man produced well. He reasoned to himself, what will I do? I have nowhere to store my fruits? He said: I would pull down my barns and build larger barns. I will store all my grain and goods there. read more.
I will say to my self: 'You have many possessions saved for many years. Take it easy and eat, drink and be merry.' But God said to him: 'You fool this night you will give up your life. Then who will have all these things you accumulated?' He who lays up (earthly) treasure for himself is not rich toward God.
I will say to my self: 'You have many possessions saved for many years. Take it easy and eat, drink and be merry.' But God said to him: 'You fool this night you will give up your life. Then who will have all these things you accumulated?' He who lays up (earthly) treasure for himself is not rich toward God.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The two sons
What do you think? A man had two sons. He asked the first to work today in the vineyard. The first son said in answer, 'I will not.' Later he changed his mind and went to work. He said the same to the second son. That son answered, 'Yes, I will go,' but he did not go to work. read more.
Which of the two pleased his father? They replied: The first. Jesus said to them: I tell you, tax collectors and prostitutes will go into the kingdom of God before you. John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him. Even the tax collectors and prostitutes believed him. When you saw this, you did not regret your sins and did not have faith in him.
Which of the two pleased his father? They replied: The first. Jesus said to them: I tell you, tax collectors and prostitutes will go into the kingdom of God before you. John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him. Even the tax collectors and prostitutes believed him. When you saw this, you did not regret your sins and did not have faith in him.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The talents
It is like a man going to another country. He called his servants and put them in charge of his property. To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one. He assigned according to the servants' ability. Then he went on his journey. Right away the servant who received the five talents traded with them and made another five talents. read more.
In like manner, he who received the two gained another two. He who received the one dug a hole in the ground and hid his lord's money. After a long time the lord of those servants came back to settle with them. The servant who received five talents brought another five talents. He said: 'Lord, here are your five talents, plus the five I gained.' His lord said: 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, so I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' The one who received two talents said: 'Lord you gave me two talents and I gained another two talents.' His lord said: 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful over a few things. I will appoint you over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' The servant who received one talent said: 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man. You reap where you did not sow and gather where you did not scatter. I was afraid, so I hid your talent in the earth. See, you have what is yours.' But his lord answered: 'You wicked and lazy servant. You knew that I reap where I did not sow and gather where I did not scatter. You should have put my money in the bank. I should have received my money back plus interest. Take the talent from him and give it to the one who has the ten talents. More will be given to every one who has and he will have abundance. He who does not have will have every thing taken away. Throw the worthless servant into outer darkness. There will be crying and grinding of teeth.'
In like manner, he who received the two gained another two. He who received the one dug a hole in the ground and hid his lord's money. After a long time the lord of those servants came back to settle with them. The servant who received five talents brought another five talents. He said: 'Lord, here are your five talents, plus the five I gained.' His lord said: 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a few things, so I will put you in charge of many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' The one who received two talents said: 'Lord you gave me two talents and I gained another two talents.' His lord said: 'Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful over a few things. I will appoint you over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' The servant who received one talent said: 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man. You reap where you did not sow and gather where you did not scatter. I was afraid, so I hid your talent in the earth. See, you have what is yours.' But his lord answered: 'You wicked and lazy servant. You knew that I reap where I did not sow and gather where I did not scatter. You should have put my money in the bank. I should have received my money back plus interest. Take the talent from him and give it to the one who has the ten talents. More will be given to every one who has and he will have abundance. He who does not have will have every thing taken away. Throw the worthless servant into outer darkness. There will be crying and grinding of teeth.'
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The pounds
They were close to Jerusalem. They assumed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. Jesus responded to their assumption with an illustration. He said: A nobleman traveled to a country far away to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. He called ten of his servants and gave them ten pounds, and said do business with this until I return. read more.
His citizens hated him. They sent a spokesman to him saying we do not want this man to rule us. He received the kingdom and went back to check on his servants. He wanted to know what they had gained by trading with the money he gave them. The first reported: Your pound has made ten pounds more. He said: Well done, you good servant. You were faithful in very little. Now you shall have authority over ten cities. The second said: Your pound, Lord, has made five pounds. He replied: You should be over five cities. Another reported: Lord, here is your pound. I kept it stored in a napkin. I feared you because you are an austere man. You take up what you do not lay down and you reap that which you did not sow. He said to him: Out of your own mouth I will judge you, you wicked servant. You knew that I am an austere man, taking up that which I did not lay down, and reaping that which I did not sow. Why did you not put my money in the bank? That way I could collect interest when I returned. The nobleman said: Take away the pound he was given and give it to him that has the ten pounds. They said: Lord he has ten pounds! I say to you, that every one who has more shall be given. The man who does not have what little he has shall be taken away from him. Bring my enemies that do not want me to rule over them and kill them in front of me.
His citizens hated him. They sent a spokesman to him saying we do not want this man to rule us. He received the kingdom and went back to check on his servants. He wanted to know what they had gained by trading with the money he gave them. The first reported: Your pound has made ten pounds more. He said: Well done, you good servant. You were faithful in very little. Now you shall have authority over ten cities. The second said: Your pound, Lord, has made five pounds. He replied: You should be over five cities. Another reported: Lord, here is your pound. I kept it stored in a napkin. I feared you because you are an austere man. You take up what you do not lay down and you reap that which you did not sow. He said to him: Out of your own mouth I will judge you, you wicked servant. You knew that I am an austere man, taking up that which I did not lay down, and reaping that which I did not sow. Why did you not put my money in the bank? That way I could collect interest when I returned. The nobleman said: Take away the pound he was given and give it to him that has the ten pounds. They said: Lord he has ten pounds! I say to you, that every one who has more shall be given. The man who does not have what little he has shall be taken away from him. Bring my enemies that do not want me to rule over them and kill them in front of me.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The lost piece of money (one drachma)
Suppose a woman with ten silver coins loses one of them. What does she do? She lights a lamp and sweeps her house. She looks carefully everywhere until she finds it. When she finds it she calls her friends and says let us celebrate. I am happy I found the lost coin. I tell you, it is the same for the angels of God who rejoice over one sinner who repents.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The pharisee and the publican
He then spoke this illustration to some who trusted in themselves. They were very self-righteous. They looked down on others: Two men went to the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed like this: God, I thank you, that I am not like the rest of men, extortionists, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. read more.
I fast twice per week. I give tithes of all that I get. But the tax collector stood far away and would not lift up so much as his eyes to heaven. He beat his breast, saying: God, be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you the tax collector and not the Pharisee was right with God when he went home. He who exalts himself will be humbled! He who humbles himself will be exalted!
I fast twice per week. I give tithes of all that I get. But the tax collector stood far away and would not lift up so much as his eyes to heaven. He beat his breast, saying: God, be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you the tax collector and not the Pharisee was right with God when he went home. He who exalts himself will be humbled! He who humbles himself will be exalted!
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The arriage of the king's son
Jesus continued to speak to them with illustrations. The kingdom of heaven is like a king who gave a wedding feast for his son. He sent out his servants to invite guests to the feast, but they would not come. read more.
Again he sent out other servants with orders to say to the guests, 'I have prepared my feast. Oxen and fat livestock are butchered and everything is ready, so come to the feast.' But they paid no attention and went about their business. One went to his farm and another went to his trade. The rest violently attacked his servants and put them to death. The king was angry, and sent his armies to put the evil servants to death and to destroy their town with fire. He said to his servants, 'The feast is ready, but the guests were not worthy. Go then, to the main roads, and invite all those whom you see to come to the feast.' They went to the roads and brought in everyone they could find, good and bad alike. And the banquet room was filled with guests. When the king met the guests he found that one of them was not wearing the right kind of clothes for the wedding. The king asked why did he not wear proper clothes for the wedding? But the guest had no excuse. The king gave orders for that person to be tied hand and foot and thrown outside into the dark. That is where people will cry and grind their teeth in pain. Many are called, but few chosen.
Again he sent out other servants with orders to say to the guests, 'I have prepared my feast. Oxen and fat livestock are butchered and everything is ready, so come to the feast.' But they paid no attention and went about their business. One went to his farm and another went to his trade. The rest violently attacked his servants and put them to death. The king was angry, and sent his armies to put the evil servants to death and to destroy their town with fire. He said to his servants, 'The feast is ready, but the guests were not worthy. Go then, to the main roads, and invite all those whom you see to come to the feast.' They went to the roads and brought in everyone they could find, good and bad alike. And the banquet room was filled with guests. When the king met the guests he found that one of them was not wearing the right kind of clothes for the wedding. The king asked why did he not wear proper clothes for the wedding? But the guest had no excuse. The king gave orders for that person to be tied hand and foot and thrown outside into the dark. That is where people will cry and grind their teeth in pain. Many are called, but few chosen.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The laborers in the vineyard
The kingdom of heaven is like the master of a house, who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. He made an agreement with the workmen for a penny a day. Then he sent them into his vineyard. He went out the third hour and saw others in the marketplace doing nothing. read more.
He said to them: 'Go to the vineyard with the others. I will pay you whatever is right.' So they went to work. He went out the sixth and the ninth hour, and did the same. The eleventh hour, he saw others doing nothing. He asked: 'Why are you here all the day doing nothing?' They said: 'No man has given us work.' He told them to go work with the rest in the vineyard. When evening came, the lord of the vineyard said to his manager: 'Let the workers come and pay them from the last to the first.' Those men who went to work at the eleventh hour were each given a penny. Those who worked longer, expected to be paid more. They were also given a penny. When they got it, they protested against the master of the house. They said: 'The last ones have done only one hour's work. You have made them equal to us. We have undergone the hard work of the day and the burning heat.' He told them: 'I do you no wrong. You made an agreement with me for a penny. Take what is yours and leave. I wish to give to the last workers the same as to you. Is it lawful for me to do what I wish with what is mine? Or is your eye jealous because I am generous?' So the last will be first, and the first last.
He said to them: 'Go to the vineyard with the others. I will pay you whatever is right.' So they went to work. He went out the sixth and the ninth hour, and did the same. The eleventh hour, he saw others doing nothing. He asked: 'Why are you here all the day doing nothing?' They said: 'No man has given us work.' He told them to go work with the rest in the vineyard. When evening came, the lord of the vineyard said to his manager: 'Let the workers come and pay them from the last to the first.' Those men who went to work at the eleventh hour were each given a penny. Those who worked longer, expected to be paid more. They were also given a penny. When they got it, they protested against the master of the house. They said: 'The last ones have done only one hour's work. You have made them equal to us. We have undergone the hard work of the day and the burning heat.' He told them: 'I do you no wrong. You made an agreement with me for a penny. Take what is yours and leave. I wish to give to the last workers the same as to you. Is it lawful for me to do what I wish with what is mine? Or is your eye jealous because I am generous?' So the last will be first, and the first last.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » Two debtors
A certain lender had two debtors. One owed five hundred shillings and the other fifty. They did not have money to pay the debt so he forgave them both. Which of them did he love the most? Simon answered: I suppose it was the one whom he forgave the most. Jesus said: Your judgment is correct. read more.
Turning to the woman, he said to Simon: See this woman? I entered into your house and you gave me no water for my feet. She watered my feet with her tears, and wiped them with her hair. You did not kiss me. Since the time I came in she has not ceased kissing my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil. She anointed my feet with ointment. She loved much! She has many sins and they are forgiven. When little is forgiven, little love is shown.
Turning to the woman, he said to Simon: See this woman? I entered into your house and you gave me no water for my feet. She watered my feet with her tears, and wiped them with her hair. You did not kiss me. Since the time I came in she has not ceased kissing my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil. She anointed my feet with ointment. She loved much! She has many sins and they are forgiven. When little is forgiven, little love is shown.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The vine
I am the true vine, and my Father is the cultivator. He takes away the branches in me that do not bear fruit. He cleans every branch that bears fruit. That way it may bear more fruit. You are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. read more.
Remain with me, and I with you. The branch cannot bear fruit by itself. It must remain on the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain with me. I am the vine and you are the branches. He that remains with me, and I with him, the same bears much fruit. You can do nothing apart from me.
Remain with me, and I with you. The branch cannot bear fruit by itself. It must remain on the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain with me. I am the vine and you are the branches. He that remains with me, and I with him, the same bears much fruit. You can do nothing apart from me.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » Seed growing secretly
He added: The kingdom of God is like this. A man plants seed in the earth. He sleeps and gets up night and day until the plants grow though he has no idea how. The earth gives fruit by itself. First comes the leaf, then the head, then full grain. read more.
When the grain is ready he immediately sends men to cut it, because the time for cutting has come.
When the grain is ready he immediately sends men to cut it, because the time for cutting has come.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » Ten virgins
The kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The foolish took no oil with their lamps. read more.
The wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. They all slept, because the bridegroom delayed his arrival. There was a shout at midnight. 'Here is the bridegroom! Come meet him.' The virgins awoke and trimmed their lamps. All the foolish virgins said to the wise: 'Give us your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise answered: 'There will not be enough for both of us. Go to the dealers and buy oil for yourself.' While they were away, the bridegroom came. They that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast and the door was shut. Later the other virgins came, saying: 'Lord, Lord, open to us.' But he told them: 'I do not know you.' Watch therefore, for you do not know the day or the hour.
The wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. They all slept, because the bridegroom delayed his arrival. There was a shout at midnight. 'Here is the bridegroom! Come meet him.' The virgins awoke and trimmed their lamps. All the foolish virgins said to the wise: 'Give us your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise answered: 'There will not be enough for both of us. Go to the dealers and buy oil for yourself.' While they were away, the bridegroom came. They that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast and the door was shut. Later the other virgins came, saying: 'Lord, Lord, open to us.' But he told them: 'I do not know you.' Watch therefore, for you do not know the day or the hour.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The importunate (unrelenting) widow
He spoke an illustration to them emphasizing the need to pray and not become tired: There was a judge in a city that did not fear God and had no respect for man. There was a widow in that same city. She went to him asking for legal protection from her adversary. read more.
At first he refused. Then he thought about it and he said to himself, I do not fear God and have little respect for man. However this widow bothers me. For this reason I will avenge her. If she keeps coming to me she will wear me out. The Lord continued: Pay attention to what the unrighteous judge said. Should God avenge his chosen that cry to him day and night, and yet he is longsuffering over them? I say to you, that he will avenge them quickly. Nevertheless, will the Son of man find faith on the earth when he comes?
At first he refused. Then he thought about it and he said to himself, I do not fear God and have little respect for man. However this widow bothers me. For this reason I will avenge her. If she keeps coming to me she will wear me out. The Lord continued: Pay attention to what the unrighteous judge said. Should God avenge his chosen that cry to him day and night, and yet he is longsuffering over them? I say to you, that he will avenge them quickly. Nevertheless, will the Son of man find faith on the earth when he comes?
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The friend at midnight
He also said: Which of you have a friend you would approach at midnight and say lend me three loaves. This is because a friend of mine is visiting and I do not have any food to feed him. You hear a voice from the house say, 'The door is shut, my children are in bed, do not bother me. I cannot rise and help you.' read more.
I tell you even if he will not rise and give you what you need because he is your friend, he will arise and give you what you need because you keep asking.
I tell you even if he will not rise and give you what you need because he is your friend, he will arise and give you what you need because you keep asking.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The barren fig tree
Jesus told them an illustration: There was a man who had a fig tree growing in his vineyard. He looked for figs on it but found none. So he told his gardener, I have been coming here looking for figs on this tree for three years. I have not found any. So cut it down! Why should it continue using the soil? But the gardener said: Just give it one more year, sir. I will dig around it, fertilize it and leave it alone. read more.
If the tree bears figs next year it will be good. If it does not you can have it cut down.
If the tree bears figs next year it will be good. If it does not you can have it cut down.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The unjust steward
Jesus told his disciples: There was a rich man who had a servant who managed his property. The rich man learned that the manager was accused of wasting his master's money. He said: 'Is it true what I hear about you? Give me a complete accounting of your management of my property for you may not be my manager any longer.' The servant thought: 'I am fired from my job. What shall I do? I am not strong enough for heavy work and I am ashamed to beg. read more.
I know what I will do when my job is gone. My friends will welcome me in their homes.' He called all the people who were in debt to his master. He asked the first one: 'How much do you owe my master?' One hundred barrels of olive oil,' he said. 'Here is your bill,' he told him; 'settle for fifty.' He asked another: 'How much do you owe?' 'A thousand bushels of wheat,' he answered. 'Here is your bill. Pay eight hundred bushels.' The master of the dishonest manager praised him for doing a shrewd thing. People of this world are more astute at handling their affairs than people who belong to the light. Jesus continued: I tell you, make friends for yourselves with worldly wealth. That way when it gives out, you will be welcomed in the eternal home.
I know what I will do when my job is gone. My friends will welcome me in their homes.' He called all the people who were in debt to his master. He asked the first one: 'How much do you owe my master?' One hundred barrels of olive oil,' he said. 'Here is your bill,' he told him; 'settle for fifty.' He asked another: 'How much do you owe?' 'A thousand bushels of wheat,' he answered. 'Here is your bill. Pay eight hundred bushels.' The master of the dishonest manager praised him for doing a shrewd thing. People of this world are more astute at handling their affairs than people who belong to the light. Jesus continued: I tell you, make friends for yourselves with worldly wealth. That way when it gives out, you will be welcomed in the eternal home.
Jesus Christ » Parables of » The hidden treasure
The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. A man found the treasure and hid it again in the field. He is so filled with joy he sells everything he owns and buys the field.
Thistle » Parables of
Jehoash king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah, saying: The thorn-tree in Lebanon sent to the cedar in Lebanon, saying: 'Give your daughter to my son for a wife.' A beast from the woodland in Lebanon went by, crushing the thorn under his feet.
By their fruits you will know them. Do men get grapes from thorns or figs from thistles?
King Jehoash of Israel sent this message to King Amaziah of Judah: A thistle in Lebanon sent a message to a cedar in Lebanon. It said: 'Let your daughter marry my son, but a wild animal from Lebanon came along and trampled the thistle.
Vine » Parables of
You brought a vine from Egypt. You forced out the nations and planted it. You cleared the ground for it so that it took root and filled the land. Its shade covered the mountains. Its branches covered the mighty cedars. read more.
It reached out with its branches to the Mediterranean Sea. Its shoots reached the Euphrates River. Why did you break down the stone fences around this vine? All who pass by are picking its fruit. Wild boars from the forest graze on it. Wild animals devour it. O God, commander of armies, come back! Look from heaven and see! Come to help this vine.
It reached out with its branches to the Mediterranean Sea. Its shoots reached the Euphrates River. Why did you break down the stone fences around this vine? All who pass by are picking its fruit. Wild boars from the forest graze on it. Wild animals devour it. O God, commander of armies, come back! Look from heaven and see! Come to help this vine.
The plant sprouted and grew into a low vine that spread over the ground. Its branches turned upward toward the eagle. Its roots grew downward. Thus it became a vine, producing branches and growing shoots. There was another large eagle with large wings and many feathers. Now, the vine stretched its roots toward this eagle and sent its branches toward the eagle so that the eagle could water it. The vine turned away from the garden where it was planted. It was planted in good soil beside plenty of water so that it could grow branches, bear fruit, and become a wonderful vine.' read more.
Say, 'The Lord Jehovah says: Will it thrive? Will he not pull up its roots and cut off its fruit, so that it and all its sprouting leaves wither? And neither by great strength nor by many people can it be raised from its roots again. Though it is transplanted, will it thrive? Will it not completely wither as soon as the east wind strikes it, wither on the beds where it grew?'
Say, 'The Lord Jehovah says: Will it thrive? Will he not pull up its roots and cut off its fruit, so that it and all its sprouting leaves wither? And neither by great strength nor by many people can it be raised from its roots again. Though it is transplanted, will it thrive? Will it not completely wither as soon as the east wind strikes it, wither on the beds where it grew?'
Your mother was like a vine in your vineyard planted by the water. It was fruitful and full of branches because of abundant water. Its branches were strong and fit for a ruler's scepter. It towered high above the thick foliage, conspicuous for its height and for its many branches. It was uprooted in fury and thrown to the ground. The east wind made it shrivel. It was stripped of its fruit. Its strong branches withered and fire consumed them. read more.
Now it is planted in the desert, in a dry and thirsty land. Fire spread from one of its main branches and consumed its fruit. No strong branch is left on it fit for a ruler's scepter. This is a song of grief and is to be used as a song of grief.'
Now it is planted in the desert, in a dry and thirsty land. Fire spread from one of its main branches and consumed its fruit. No strong branch is left on it fit for a ruler's scepter. This is a song of grief and is to be used as a song of grief.'
Vineyard » Parables of
Listen to another illustration. A master of a house made a vineyard, and put a wall around it. He made a wine press and built a tower. Then he rented it to workers and traveled to another country. When the time for the fruit came near, he sent his servants to the workmen, to get the fruit. The workmen attacked his servants, striking one with a stone and killing the other. read more.
He sent other servants more in number than the first. They did the same to them. Finally he sent his son to them, saying, 'Certainly they will respect my son.' When the workmen saw the son, they said, 'Let us put him to death and take his heritage, for someday he will own this property.' They took him out of the vineyard and killed him. When the lord of the vineyard returns, what will he do to the workmen? They all said: He will put those cruel men to death. Then he will find other workmen who are worthy and who will give him fruit when it is ready.
He sent other servants more in number than the first. They did the same to them. Finally he sent his son to them, saying, 'Certainly they will respect my son.' When the workmen saw the son, they said, 'Let us put him to death and take his heritage, for someday he will own this property.' They took him out of the vineyard and killed him. When the lord of the vineyard returns, what will he do to the workmen? They all said: He will put those cruel men to death. Then he will find other workmen who are worthy and who will give him fruit when it is ready.
Many foreign rulers have destroyed my vineyard. They trampled down my fields and turned my beautiful land into a desert.
The kingdom of heaven is like the master of a house, who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. He made an agreement with the workmen for a penny a day. Then he sent them into his vineyard. He went out the third hour and saw others in the marketplace doing nothing. read more.
He said to them: 'Go to the vineyard with the others. I will pay you whatever is right.' So they went to work. He went out the sixth and the ninth hour, and did the same. The eleventh hour, he saw others doing nothing. He asked: 'Why are you here all the day doing nothing?' They said: 'No man has given us work.' He told them to go work with the rest in the vineyard. When evening came, the lord of the vineyard said to his manager: 'Let the workers come and pay them from the last to the first.' Those men who went to work at the eleventh hour were each given a penny. Those who worked longer, expected to be paid more. They were also given a penny. When they got it, they protested against the master of the house. They said: 'The last ones have done only one hour's work. You have made them equal to us. We have undergone the hard work of the day and the burning heat.' He told them: 'I do you no wrong. You made an agreement with me for a penny. Take what is yours and leave. I wish to give to the last workers the same as to you. Is it lawful for me to do what I wish with what is mine? Or is your eye jealous because I am generous?' So the last will be first, and the first last.
He said to them: 'Go to the vineyard with the others. I will pay you whatever is right.' So they went to work. He went out the sixth and the ninth hour, and did the same. The eleventh hour, he saw others doing nothing. He asked: 'Why are you here all the day doing nothing?' They said: 'No man has given us work.' He told them to go work with the rest in the vineyard. When evening came, the lord of the vineyard said to his manager: 'Let the workers come and pay them from the last to the first.' Those men who went to work at the eleventh hour were each given a penny. Those who worked longer, expected to be paid more. They were also given a penny. When they got it, they protested against the master of the house. They said: 'The last ones have done only one hour's work. You have made them equal to us. We have undergone the hard work of the day and the burning heat.' He told them: 'I do you no wrong. You made an agreement with me for a penny. Take what is yours and leave. I wish to give to the last workers the same as to you. Is it lawful for me to do what I wish with what is mine? Or is your eye jealous because I am generous?' So the last will be first, and the first last.
Jesus told them an illustration: There was a man who had a fig tree growing in his vineyard. He looked for figs on it but found none. So he told his gardener, I have been coming here looking for figs on this tree for three years. I have not found any. So cut it down! Why should it continue using the soil? But the gardener said: Just give it one more year, sir. I will dig around it, fertilize it and leave it alone. read more.
If the tree bears figs next year it will be good. If it does not you can have it cut down.
If the tree bears figs next year it will be good. If it does not you can have it cut down.
Let me sing to my loved one a song of my beloved concerning his vineyard: My loved one had a vineyard on a fertile hill. He dug the soil all around and removed its stones. He planted it with the choicest vine. And he built a tower in the middle of it and also hewed out a wine vat in it. Then he expected it to produce good grapes, but it only produced worthless ones. Now then, you inhabitants of Jerusalem and Judah, judge between my vineyard and me! read more.
What more could have been done for my vineyard than what I have already done for it? When I waited for it to produce good grapes, why did it produce only sour, wild grapes? Here is what I am going to do to my vineyard: I will take away the hedge and break down the wall that protects it. I will let wild animals eat it and trample it down. It will turn into a desert, neither pruned nor cultivated. It will be covered with thorns and briars. I will command the clouds not to send rain. I am Jehovah of Hosts (All Powerful)! Israel is the vineyard, and Judah is the garden I tended with care. I had hoped for honesty and for justice, but dishonesty and cries for mercy were all I found.
What more could have been done for my vineyard than what I have already done for it? When I waited for it to produce good grapes, why did it produce only sour, wild grapes? Here is what I am going to do to my vineyard: I will take away the hedge and break down the wall that protects it. I will let wild animals eat it and trample it down. It will turn into a desert, neither pruned nor cultivated. It will be covered with thorns and briars. I will command the clouds not to send rain. I am Jehovah of Hosts (All Powerful)! Israel is the vineyard, and Judah is the garden I tended with care. I had hoped for honesty and for justice, but dishonesty and cries for mercy were all I found.
What do you think? A man had two sons. He asked the first to work today in the vineyard. The first son said in answer, 'I will not.' Later he changed his mind and went to work. He said the same to the second son. That son answered, 'Yes, I will go,' but he did not go to work. read more.
Which of the two pleased his father? They replied: The first. Jesus said to them: I tell you, tax collectors and prostitutes will go into the kingdom of God before you.
Which of the two pleased his father? They replied: The first. Jesus said to them: I tell you, tax collectors and prostitutes will go into the kingdom of God before you.
In that day sing about a fruitful vineyard: I, Jehovah, watch over it. I water it continually. I guard it day and night so that no one may harm it.
Wheat » Parables of
He asked another: 'How much do you owe?' 'A thousand bushels of wheat,' he answered. 'Here is your bill. Pay eight hundred bushels.'
While he slept, his enemy came and sowed weeds with the wheat, and went away.