44 Bible Verses about Parables

Most Relevant Verses

Matthew 13:10-15

And the disciples came, and said to him, why do you speak to them in parables? to whom he answered, because you are allowed to know the mysteries of the gospel-dispensation, but to them it is not allowed. for to him that uses what he has, shall be given, and he shall have abundantly: but from him that uses it not, shall be taken away, even what he hath.read more.
therefore speak I to them in parables: because they over-look what they see: and are inattentive to what they hear, neither will they comprehend. and in them is fulfilled that prophecy of Esaias, "by hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand: and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive. for the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them."

Mark 4:10-12

And when he was in private, the twelve, and some of his disciples asked him the meaning of the parable. he answered, you are admitted into the secret of the gospel-dispensation: but to unbelievers every thing is couch'd in parables; because, tho' they see, they will not perceive, and tho' they hear they will not understand: as if they were afraid of parting with their vices, in order to be pardoned.

Luke 8:9-10

But his disciples having ask'd him the meaning of this parable; he answered, the secret circumstances of the divine dispensation may be clearly revealed to you, but to others only in parables, so that they don't observe what they see, nor comprehend what they hear.

Matthew 13:3-8

Then he talk'd to them much in parables, and said, a sower went out to sow. and in sowing, part of the grain fell in the high-way, and the fowls light and peck'd them up: another part fell upon stony places, where it had not much earth: and it soon sprung up, because the soil was shallow:read more.
so that as the sun arose it was scorched, and for want of root, withered away. another part fell among thorns: and the thorns grew up and choked it. but another part falling upon good soil, became fruitful, some grains yielding an hundred, some sixty, and some thirty.

Mark 4:3-8

give your attention to what I say, a sower went out to sow: as he sowed, some of the seed happened to fall by the wayside, which the birds light upon, and devoured. some fell on stony ground, where it had not much earth, and it soon sprang up, for want of a sufficient depth of earth.read more.
but when the sun was up, it was scorched, and for want of root, withered away. some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and choaked it, so that it yielded no fruit. but part of it fell on good ground, which sprang up, and grew so fruitful, that some grains produced thirty, others sixty, and some an hundred.

Luke 8:5-8

a husbandman went out to sow his corn: and as he was sowing, some fell upon the beaten road, which was crush'd under foot, or devoured by the birds. some fell upon very stony ground, which no sooner sprung up, but it wither'd away, for want of moisture: some fell among thorns; but the thorns over-grew it, and starv'd it.read more.
but some of the corn fell into good soil, and grew up, yielding a hundred grains for one. then raising his voice he concluded with these words, he that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Matthew 7:24-27

therefore, whoever heareth these instructions of mine, and puts them in practice, I will compare him to the prudent man, who built his house upon a rock: the rain descended, the floods came, the winds blew, and beat upon that house: but it fell not, for it was founded upon a rock. but every one that heareth these instructions of mine, and practiseth them not, shall be compared to a fool who built his house upon the sand:read more.
the rain descends, the flood rushes on, the winds blow, and beat upon the house: down it falls, and wide are its ruins.

Luke 6:47-49

I will show you, who that man is like, who comes to me, and practises what I prescribe. he is like a man who in building a house, digg'd deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: an inundation came, the current beat impetuously upon that house, but could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. but he that does not practise what he hears, is like a man who built his house upon the loose earth without any foundation: the current beat impetuously against it: in the instant down it fell, and great were its ruins.

Matthew 13:24-30

Another parable he propos'd to them in these words. the state of the gospel in this world may be compar'd to a man who sowed good grain in his field: but while the people slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. but when the blade was sprung up, and bore grain, the tares appeared too.read more.
so the servants of the yeoman came and said, Sir, did not you sow your field with good grain: how comes it then to have tares? 'tis some enemy, said he, has done this. the servants replied, shall we go then and pull them up? no, said he, lest in pulling up the tares, you should root up the wheat with them. let both grow together till the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will thus direct the reapers, first of all gather the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: then lodge the wheat in my barn.

Mark 4:30-32

Again he said, to what shall we compare the state of the gospel? or by what parable shall we represent it? it is like a grain of mustard-seed, which when sown in the earth, is less than any other grain that is sown there. but after it is sown, it grows up, and becometh larger than other plants of the pulse kind, and shooteth out its branches so high, that the fowls of the air may lodge under its shadow.

Luke 13:18-19

Then he said, what does the kingdom of God resemble? to what shall I compare it? it is like a grain of mustard-seed, which a man took, and sowed in his garden: it grew, and became so large, that the birds of the air built their nests in its boughs.

Matthew 13:33

Another of his parables was this; the gospel-state is like unto leaven, which a woman took and mixt with three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

Matthew 18:12-14

If a man has an hundred sheep, and one of them should go astray, do you think he would not leave the ninety and nine in the mountains, and go in search for that which was gone astray? and if he happen to find it, you may be sure he is more affected with that one, than with the ninety and nine which went not astray. in like manner your heavenly father would not that any person of such humility should be lost.

Luke 15:4-7

who of you that has an hundred sheep, will not, upon losing one, leave the ninety nine in the desart, to go after that which is lost, till he finds it? and when he hath found it, joyfully lay it upon his shoulders? and when he comes home, call his friends and neighbours together, and say to them, rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep, that was lost?read more.
I tell you, that there shall likewise be greater joy in heaven for one sinner that repents, than for ninety nine just persons, that need no repentance.

Matthew 18:23-35

In this respect the gospel-kingdom may be represented by that of a temporal prince, who had a mind to call his servants to account. when he had begun to reckon, one was brought to him indebted the sum of ten thousand talents. but being insolvent, his lord gave orders that he, with his wife, and children, and all that he had, should be sold for payment.read more.
the servant therefore fell prostrate before him, and cry'd out, Lord, allow me but time and I will pay the whole. upon which the lord of that vassal, touch'd with compassion, gave him his liberty, and discharged him of the debt. but this very servant presently after met with one of his fellow-servants, who owed him an hundred pence: and violently seizing him, said, pay me the debt. and his fellow-servant fell at his feet, and embraced him, saying, allow me time, and I will pay thee all. which he would not allow: but immediately threw him into prison, till he should pay the debt. his fellow-servants upon seeing this were very much concern'd, and went to acquaint their master with what had pass'd. then his lord order'd him to be call'd, and said to him, O thou wicked slave, I forgave thee all thy debt, upon your request: should not you then have had the like compassion for thy fellow servant as I had for thee? so that his lord in great displeasure delivered him to the jayler till he should pay the whole debt. in the same manner will my heavenly father likewise treat you, if ye do not sincerely forgive every one the trespasses of his brother.

Matthew 20:1-16

For the kingdom of the Messiah is like a family, the master whereof went out early in the morning to hire labourers for his vineyard. having agreed with them for a penny a day, he sent them to his vineyard. he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the market-place, and said to them,read more.
go ye likewise to my vineyard, and I will give you what is reasonable: accordingly they went thither. about the sixth and ninth hour he went out again, and gave the like directions. at last, about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and said to them, why do you stand idling thus all day long? they answer'd him, because we are not hired; go work then. said he, in my vineyard, and I will give you what's reasonable. so when even was come, the master of the vineyard said to his steward, call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last to the first. they then that were hired about the eleventh hour, came and received every man his penny. last of all they came who were hired first, expecting to have received more, but they had only a penny a man, who upon the receipt of it fell a murmuring against the master, and cry'd, these last have work'd but an hour, and you put them upon the level with us, who have born the whole fatigue and heat of the day. but he answered one of them, friend, I do thee no wrong: did not you agree for a penny a day? take your due, and be gone: I will give the last the same I give you. can't I do what I will with my own? because I am bountiful, are you invidious? thus the last shall be first, and the first last: for though many are invited, few have precedence.

Matthew 21:33-41

Hear another parable: a certain landlord planted a vineyard, hedged it round, set up a wine-press in it, and built a tower, then lett it out to tenants, and went into a foreign country. and when the fruit-season came on, he sent his servants to the tenants, to receive the fruits of it. but they seiz'd his servants, beat some, killed one, and stoned another.read more.
then he sent a greater number of servants, than at first: who met with the same treatment. but last of all, he sent his son, saying, they will reverence my son. but when the tenants saw the son, they said among themselves, this is the heir, come, let us kill him, and then seize on his inheritance. so seizing upon him, they turn'd him out of the vineyard, and slew him. when the master therefore of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants? they answered, he will give those wretches no quarter, and will let out his vineyard to such as shall duly account for the profits thereof.

Mark 12:1-9

Then Jesus address'd himself to them in this parabolical manner. a certain person planted a vineyard, made a fence about it, clear'd the way for a wine-press, built a tower, and committed it to the care of vine-dressers, while he was travelling abroad. at the time of vintage he sent his servant to the vine-dressers to receive the profits of his vineyard. but they seized on him, and beat him, and sent him home empty.read more.
after this he sent another servant to them, him they assaulted with stones and cudgels, and sent him back with contempt. then he sent another, whom they killed: and of several more, some they beat, some they killed. at last, having one only son, whom he loved, he sent him to them; surely, said he, they will reverence my son. but these husbandmen said to one another, this is the heir, come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be our own. so they seized upon him, and dragg'd him out of the vineyard, and killed him. now what will the master of the vineyard do? on his return, said they, he will destroy those vine-dressers, and give his vineyard to others.

Luke 20:9-16

Then he propos'd this parable to the people, a man planted a vineyard, let it out to husbandmen, and then went a travelling for some time. at vintage, he sent a servant to the husbandmen, to demand the profits of the vineyard. but they beat him and sent him away empty. again he sent another servant, him they likewise beat, insulted, and sent away empty.read more.
he still sent a third, whom they wounded and drove away. upon which the master of the vineyard said, what shall I do? I will send my beloved son: perhaps his presence will engage their respect. but when the husbandmen saw him, they said to one another, this is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be our own. so they kill'd him, and threw him out of the vineyard. what punishment now will the master inflict upon them? he will come and destroy these husbandmen, and give his vineyard to others. but they, taking the hint, cried out, God forbid.

Matthew 22:1-14

And Jesus continued to speak to them in parables, and said, the kingdom of the Messiah is such, as when a certain king made a wedding-feast for his son. he sent out his servants to call those that were invited to the wedding: but they would not come.read more.
then he sent out other servants, saying, tell those who are invited, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and every thing is ready: come to the entertainment. but instead of showing any regard, they went their ways, one to his farm, another to his traffick. others seiz'd his servants, outrageously abused them, and slew them. when the king was informed of this, he was greatly incensed, and having order'd his forces to march, he put those murderers to death, and laid their city in ashes. then he said to his servants, the feast is ready, but they who were invited were very unworthy. go therefore into the high streets, and as many as ye find, invite to the marriage: accordingly they went about the streets, and assembled all they met indifferently, both good and bad: so that the hall was furnished with guests. but upon the king's coming in to see the guests, he observ'd one there without a wedding garment: and he said to him, friend, how came you in hither, without a wedding garment? and he was speechless. then said the king to the servants, bind him hand and foot, take him away, and turn him out in the dark: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. thus many are called, but few are converted.

Matthew 25:1-13

The kingdom of the Messiah will then be such, as when ten virgins took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom. five of them were wise, and five were foolish. they that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:read more.
but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. while the bridegroom tarried, they were drowsy and slept. and at midnight there was a sudden cry, see the bridegroom comes; go and meet him. then the virgins all arose, and trimmed their lamps. and the foolish said to the wise, give us of your oil, for our lamps are going out. but the wise answered, for fear there should not be enough for us and you, go rather to those that sell; and buy for your selves. and while they were gone to buy, the bridegroom came, and they that were ready, entred with him into the hall, and the door was shut. afterwards came the other virgins likewise, and cry'd, Lord, Lord, pray let us in. but he answered, I assure you, I know you not. watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour.

Mark 4:26-29

Again, he said, the state of the gospel is like that of the grain, which a man sows in his land: however he takes his repose by night, or is employ'd by day, the grain shoots up and grows without his inspection. for the earth spontaneously produces, first the blade, then the ear, after that the grain of corn in the ear.read more.
but as soon as the fruit is ripe, the sickle is applied, because the harvest is come.

Mark 7:14-15

Then Jesus having called all the people to him, said, attend every one of you, and understand. there is nothing from without, that entring into a man can defile him: but that which originally proceeds from the man, is what defiles him.

Luke 10:25-37

Then a doctor of the law stood up to try him, saying, master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? to whom he answered, how does the law run in that case? what do you find? he replied, 'tis thus, "thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy soul, with all thy strength, and with all thy understanding; and thy neighbour as thy self."read more.
you have answered well, replied Jesus, do this, and you shall live. but he being desirous to clear himself, said to Jesus, but what is meant by our neighbour? to which Jesus answered, a certain man, as he was going from Jerusalem to Jericho, fell among thieves, who stripp'd him, and beat him, then march'd off leaving him half dead. a certain priest happen'd to be travelling that way, who look'd upon him, and then pass'd on. a Levite too came to the same place, gave him a look, and pass'd on. but a certain Samaritan being on the road, came where he was, and when he saw him, he took compassion on him, went up to him, dress'd his wounds by applying oil and wine, then set him upon his own mule, and brought him to an inn, where he took care of him. upon his departure the next day, he took out two denarii, and gave them to the master of the house, take care of him, said he, and I will repay you all the charges you are at, upon my return. which now of the three do you think was neighbour to the man that was robb'd. he, reply'd the doctor, who took pity on him. then said Jesus to him, go then, and imitate his example.

Luke 12:16-21

to which purpose he propos'd to them this parable: a rich man had some land that was very fruitful. and thus he reason'd with himself, what shall I do for want of room to store up my crop? this will I do, said he, I will pull down my barns, and build greater: and there I will bestow all my rich product.read more.
then I will say to my soul, soul, you have many enjoyments in reserve for a number of years; take your ease, eat, drink, and be merry. but God said to him, thou fool, this night shall thy soul be required of thee: who then shall enjoy what thou hast provided? such is he, who heaps up his treasure here, and makes no provision for another world.

Luke 14:16-24

upon which Jesus said, a certain man made a great entertainment; where many were invited. at supper-time he sent his servant to tell the guests to come, because every thing was ready. but they were all of a mind in making some excuse: the first said to him, I have bought a piece of ground, which I must needs go and see: therefore pray excuse me.read more.
another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, which I am going to prove: I beg you to excuse me. another said, I have married a wife: 'tis therefore impossible for me to come. so the servant return'd, and related the whole matter to his master, who in resentment said to his servant, go immediately into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring hither the poor, the maimed, the halt, and the blind. at length the servant said, sir, your orders have been executed, and still there is room. the master reply'd, go then to the high-ways and by-paths, and compel them to come in, that my house may be full. for I tell you that not one of those, who were invited, shall taste of my supper.

Luke 15:8-32

or if a woman, that has ten pieces of money, should lose one of them, will she not light a lamp, sweep the house, and carefully search, till she find it? and when 'tis found, will she not call her friends aud neighbours together, and say, rejoice with me, for I have found the piece, I had lost? even so, I assure you, the angels in heaven rejoice, when any one sinner becomes a penitent.read more.
Again he said: a certain man had two sons; the younger of which said to his father, father, give me that portion of the estate which falls to my share. accordingly he divided his estate among them. a little while after the younger son turn'd all he had into money, and travell'd into a foreign country, where he squander'd away his fortune in luxurious living. when he had spent all, there happen'd to be a severe famine in that country; and he was reduced to want, which forc'd him to make his application to one of the inhabitants there, who sent him to his farm to look after his swine. for he would have been contented to have liv'd upon the carruways, with which they usually fed the swine: but nobody would supply him. at length coming to himself, how many, said he, does my father keep in pay, who have bread in abundance, whilst I am dying here with hunger? I will depart, and go to my father, and say to him, father, I have sinned against heaven, and against thee; I am no longer worthy to be called your son: treat me as one of your hir'd servants. so he departed and went to his father. but while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him, and mov'd with compassion, ran and threw himself upon his neck, and kissed him. then the son said to him, father, I have sinned against heaven, and against you, I am no longer worthy to be called your son. but the father said to his servants, bring hither the finest robe, and put it on him: put a ring on his finger, and shoes on his feet. take the fatted calf, and kill it: let us eat and be merry: for this son of mine was dead, and is come to life: he was lost, and is found again. and then they began their feast. In the mean time his elder son was in the country. at his return, when he came near home, he heard the musick and dancing: and calling one of the servants, he ask'd what was the occasion of it, who reply'd, your brother is return'd, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him in good health. upon this he was full of resentment, and refused to go in: and when his father came out to persuade him, he replied to his father, how many years have I serv'd you, without having ever disobey'd your orders? and yet you never bestow'd a kid upon me, to make merry with my friends: whereas this son of yours, who has eat up his fortune among a pack of loose creatures, is no sooner come but you must kill the fatted calf for him. son, said he to him, you shall continue to be with me, and all that I have shall be thine. but it was necessary to feast and rejoice, because your brother here was dead, and is again alive: he was lost and is now found.

Luke 18:9-14

Then he propos'd this parable, concerning those who had a great opinion of their own justice, and look'd with contempt upon others. two men went to the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, the other a Publican. the Pharisee in a standing posture pray'd thus by himself, O God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men, a robber, a cheat, an adulterer, or like that Publican.read more.
I fast twice a week, and I pay the tythe of all I possess. but the Publican, who stood a good way lower, not daring to lift up even his eyes to heaven, only smote his breast, and said, O God, be merciful to me, who am a sinner. I tell you this man went home approv'd as just, and not the other. for whoever exalteth himself shall be humbled, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Luke 19:12-27

a nobleman, said he, was going to travel to a foreign country, in order to have his kingdom confirm'd to him at his return. and he called ten of his servants, to whom he deliver'd ten pounds: improve that, said he, till I return. but he being hated by the citizens, after he was gone, they sent a deputation to court, to make this protest, "we will not have him for our king."read more.
upon his return, being confirm'd king, he order'd the servants, he had trusted with the money, to appear, and inform him, what improvement each of them had made. the first came and said, Lord, your one pound has gained ten more. he answer'd, honest servant, that's well: since your industry has made so much of so little, I give you the government of ten cities. then the second came, and said, Lord, your pound has produc'd five more. his master replied, you shall be governor of five cities. but another came and said, Lord, here's your money, which I laid up safe in a napkin. for I was in fear of you, knowing you to be a hard master, who exact what you never gave, and reap where you have never sown. wicked slave, said he, from your own mouth will I convict thee. "you knew I was a hard master, exacting what I never gave, and reaping where I never sowed: " why then did you not lodge my money in the bank, that on my return I might have drawn it out with interest? then he said to his attendants, take the one pound from him, and give it him, that gain'd ten. but they objected, Lord, he has already ten pounds: I tell you, said he, that to every one who improves, more shall be given: and he that makes no improvement, shall be stript of what he has. as for those enemies of mine, who would not have me for their king, bring them here, and slay them in my presence.

Mark 4:33-34

Thus he instructed them by such a variety of parables as were adapted to their capacity. his stile in publick was figurative, but he explain'd every thing to his disciples in private.

Matthew 13:18-23

Hear then the meaning of this parable of the sower. when any one heareth the doctrine of the gospel, and considers it not, then comes the wicked one, and catches away what was sown in his heart: he is the person meant by the high-way, where some of the seed was sown: but the stony ground, where other seed fell, denotes the man that heareth the word, and at first receives it with pleasure:read more.
but having no root in him he has only an occasional faith: for as soon as any oppression or persecution arises upon account of the gospel, he presently relapses. he that is meant by the thorny ground, where other seed fell, is one that heareth the word: which by cares of this life, and the deceitful love of riches, is soon stifled, and becomes unfruitful: but the ground that received the grain, represents those, who hear the word, and consider it, who all become fruitful, some in one degree, and some in another.

Mark 4:14-20

the sower is he that soweth the word. they who receiv'd seed by the wayside, are those in whom the word is sown, who no sooner have heard it, but satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. in like manner, they who receive seed on stony-ground, are such as upon hearing the word, do immediately receive it with joy.read more.
but having no root at the bottom, they are only occasional professors, for if they meet with any trouble or persecution upon account of the word, immediately they revolt. as for those, who receive seed as among thorns: they are such as hear the word. but the cares of this life, the deceitful love of riches, and a crowd of different passions, stifle the word, and it becomes unfruitful. they who receive seed as on good ground, are such as hear the word and entertain it, and bring forth fruit, some in one degree, and some in another.

Luke 8:11-15

now the meaning of the parable is this: the seed sown signifies the word of God. by the beaten road is meant, they who only hear: the word, by the lurking wiles of the devil, being hinder'd from taking root in their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. by the stony ground is understood such persons as receive indeed the doctrines they hear, with joy: but for want of resolution, believe only occasionally, and desert when the trial comes.read more.
the ground over-run with thorns denotes such as have embraced the doctrine, but are so immerst in the business, enjoyments, and pleasures of life, as not to improve it to any real advantage. but by the good ground is meant such persons as have received the doctrine with simplicity and sincerity, abide by it, and practise it with perseverance.

Matthew 13:36-43

Then Jesus leaving the multitude, went into the house: and his disciples coming to him, said, explain to us the parable of the tares of the field. he answered them, he that soweth the good seed, is the son of man: the field is the world: the good seed are the children of the kingdom: but the tares are the children of the wicked one:read more.
the enemy that sowed them is the devil: the harvest is the conclusion of the age: and the reapers are the angels. as then the tares are gathered and burnt in the fire; so shall it be at the conclusion of the age. the son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all that make others offend, and those who do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. then shall the just shine out like the sun, in the kingdom of their father. he that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Mark 7:17-23

When he withdrew from the people into the house, his disciples ask'd him the meaning of that maxim. and he said, are you likewise so void of understanding? don't you perceive that what passes from without into a man cannot defile him? because that does not enter into his heart, but into the belly, whence it is discharg'd, the purest part of the food being left for nutrition.read more.
but, said he, that which proceeds from a man, is what defiles him: for from within, from the heart of man proceed wicked designs, adulteries, fornications, murders; thefts, avarice, malice, fraud, impudence, envy, scandal, pride, vanity. all these vices come from within, and are what defile the man.

From Thematic Bible


Parables » Of the old testament » Of the prophets

Parables » Why jesus Christ spoke in parables

Luke 8:9-10

But his disciples having ask'd him the meaning of this parable; he answered, the secret circumstances of the divine dispensation may be clearly revealed to you, but to others only in parables, so that they don't observe what they see, nor comprehend what they hear.

Matthew 13:10-17

And the disciples came, and said to him, why do you speak to them in parables? to whom he answered, because you are allowed to know the mysteries of the gospel-dispensation, but to them it is not allowed. for to him that uses what he has, shall be given, and he shall have abundantly: but from him that uses it not, shall be taken away, even what he hath. read more.
therefore speak I to them in parables: because they over-look what they see: and are inattentive to what they hear, neither will they comprehend. and in them is fulfilled that prophecy of Esaias, "by hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand: and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive. for the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." but happy are you that your eyes have sight; and that your ears have their hearing. for I declare unto you, that many prophets and just men have desired to see what ye see, and have not seen it: and to hear what ye hear, and have not heard it.

Mark 4:10-12

And when he was in private, the twelve, and some of his disciples asked him the meaning of the parable. he answered, you are admitted into the secret of the gospel-dispensation: but to unbelievers every thing is couch'd in parables; because, tho' they see, they will not perceive, and tho' they hear they will not understand: as if they were afraid of parting with their vices, in order to be pardoned.

Parables » Of Christ found in one gospel only, (chapter specified) » The barren fig tree, luke 13

2 Corinthians 12:4

this I know, that he was snatch'd up into paradise, and heard such secrets as it is not lawful for a man to reveal.

Parables » Jesus Christ speaking in parables

Matthew 13:34-35

All these things spake Jesus to the multitude in parables, and did not discourse to them without some parable. so that this saying of the prophet was fulfilled, "I will talk in parables, I will utter what has been kept secret from the foundation of the world."

Mark 4:33-34

Thus he instructed them by such a variety of parables as were adapted to their capacity. his stile in publick was figurative, but he explain'd every thing to his disciples in private.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Tares

Matthew 13:24-30

Another parable he propos'd to them in these words. the state of the gospel in this world may be compar'd to a man who sowed good grain in his field: but while the people slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. but when the blade was sprung up, and bore grain, the tares appeared too. read more.
so the servants of the yeoman came and said, Sir, did not you sow your field with good grain: how comes it then to have tares? 'tis some enemy, said he, has done this. the servants replied, shall we go then and pull them up? no, said he, lest in pulling up the tares, you should root up the wheat with them. let both grow together till the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will thus direct the reapers, first of all gather the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: then lodge the wheat in my barn.

Matthew 13:36-43

Then Jesus leaving the multitude, went into the house: and his disciples coming to him, said, explain to us the parable of the tares of the field. he answered them, he that soweth the good seed, is the son of man: the field is the world: the good seed are the children of the kingdom: but the tares are the children of the wicked one: read more.
the enemy that sowed them is the devil: the harvest is the conclusion of the age: and the reapers are the angels. as then the tares are gathered and burnt in the fire; so shall it be at the conclusion of the age. the son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all that make others offend, and those who do iniquity; and shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. then shall the just shine out like the sun, in the kingdom of their father. he that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Parables » Of the old testament » Of joash

Parables » Parables of Christ » Sower

Luke 8:5-15

a husbandman went out to sow his corn: and as he was sowing, some fell upon the beaten road, which was crush'd under foot, or devoured by the birds. some fell upon very stony ground, which no sooner sprung up, but it wither'd away, for want of moisture: some fell among thorns; but the thorns over-grew it, and starv'd it. read more.
but some of the corn fell into good soil, and grew up, yielding a hundred grains for one. then raising his voice he concluded with these words, he that hath ears to hear, let him hear. But his disciples having ask'd him the meaning of this parable; he answered, the secret circumstances of the divine dispensation may be clearly revealed to you, but to others only in parables, so that they don't observe what they see, nor comprehend what they hear. now the meaning of the parable is this: the seed sown signifies the word of God. by the beaten road is meant, they who only hear: the word, by the lurking wiles of the devil, being hinder'd from taking root in their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. by the stony ground is understood such persons as receive indeed the doctrines they hear, with joy: but for want of resolution, believe only occasionally, and desert when the trial comes. the ground over-run with thorns denotes such as have embraced the doctrine, but are so immerst in the business, enjoyments, and pleasures of life, as not to improve it to any real advantage. but by the good ground is meant such persons as have received the doctrine with simplicity and sincerity, abide by it, and practise it with perseverance.

Matthew 13:3-23

Then he talk'd to them much in parables, and said, a sower went out to sow. and in sowing, part of the grain fell in the high-way, and the fowls light and peck'd them up: another part fell upon stony places, where it had not much earth: and it soon sprung up, because the soil was shallow: read more.
so that as the sun arose it was scorched, and for want of root, withered away. another part fell among thorns: and the thorns grew up and choked it. but another part falling upon good soil, became fruitful, some grains yielding an hundred, some sixty, and some thirty. he that hath ears to hear, let him hear. And the disciples came, and said to him, why do you speak to them in parables? to whom he answered, because you are allowed to know the mysteries of the gospel-dispensation, but to them it is not allowed. for to him that uses what he has, shall be given, and he shall have abundantly: but from him that uses it not, shall be taken away, even what he hath. therefore speak I to them in parables: because they over-look what they see: and are inattentive to what they hear, neither will they comprehend. and in them is fulfilled that prophecy of Esaias, "by hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand: and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive. for the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them." but happy are you that your eyes have sight; and that your ears have their hearing. for I declare unto you, that many prophets and just men have desired to see what ye see, and have not seen it: and to hear what ye hear, and have not heard it. Hear then the meaning of this parable of the sower. when any one heareth the doctrine of the gospel, and considers it not, then comes the wicked one, and catches away what was sown in his heart: he is the person meant by the high-way, where some of the seed was sown: but the stony ground, where other seed fell, denotes the man that heareth the word, and at first receives it with pleasure: but having no root in him he has only an occasional faith: for as soon as any oppression or persecution arises upon account of the gospel, he presently relapses. he that is meant by the thorny ground, where other seed fell, is one that heareth the word: which by cares of this life, and the deceitful love of riches, is soon stifled, and becomes unfruitful: but the ground that received the grain, represents those, who hear the word, and consider it, who all become fruitful, some in one degree, and some in another.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Builder of a tower

Luke 14:28-30

for who of you would resolve to build a tower, without taking the trouble first of all to compute the expence, and whether he is able to finish it? for fear he should be made the jest of every spectator, for laying the foundation, without being able to carry it on. this man, will they say, began to build, but wanted stock to finish.

Parables » Of the vine

Parables » Parables of Christ » Lighted candle

Luke 11:33-36

However, when a man has once lighted his lamp, he does not hide it in a by-place, or under a bushel; but sets it on a stand, that all who come in may have light. the eye is the light of the body: if therefore your eye be clear, every member of your body will have the benefit of the light: but if it be spoil'd, they must all rest in darkness. take care therefore, that the light which is in thee do not become darkness. read more.
for if thy whole body be enlightned, and no part dark, your whole conduct will be regulated, just as the light of a lamp directs all your motions.

Mark 4:21

Again he said, is a lamp ever brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? or to be set on a stand?

Parables » Parables of Christ » Strong man armed

Parables » Of the vineyard

Parables » Parables of Christ » Faithful, and evil servants

Matthew 24:45-51

If then there be a servant, appointed by his master to take care of his family, who faithfully and prudently distributes their allowance according to the establishment: happy is the servant, who shall be found so employed, at his master's return. I tell you, he shall make him steward of all his estate. read more.
but if he be dishonest, and says to himself, my Lord delays coming, and shall pretend to assault his fellow-servants, and spend his time with sots: the master of that servant will come in a day when he least expects it, and at an hour he is not aware of; and shall turn him out of the family, and give him the reward due to such behaviour: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Net cast into the sea

Matthew 13:47-50

Again, the gospel-kingdom is like a net that is cast into the sea, and draws all sorts of fish: when it is full, they drag it to shore, then sit down, and pick out the good to lay by, but throw the bad away. so it shall be at the end of the world: the angels shall come forth, and after they have separated the wicked from the just, read more.
they shall cast the wicked into the furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Pearl of great price

Matthew 13:45-46

Again, the heavenly kingdom is like a merchant-man, who is in quest of curious pearls: and meeting with one of great value, presently sells all that he has to make the purchase.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Meats » Not defiling

Matthew 15:10-15

Then he called the multitude and said to them, hear and understand. that which entereth by the mouth is not what defiles a man: but what defiles the man is that which is discharged by the mouth. Thereupon his disciples drawing nigh, said, did you observe, how the Pharisees were scandalized at your discourse? read more.
but he answered, every plantation which my heavenly father hath not planted shall be rooted up. let them alone: they are blind leaders of the blind. now if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. then Peter said to him, tell us the meaning of that expression.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Unmerciful servant

Matthew 18:23-35

In this respect the gospel-kingdom may be represented by that of a temporal prince, who had a mind to call his servants to account. when he had begun to reckon, one was brought to him indebted the sum of ten thousand talents. but being insolvent, his lord gave orders that he, with his wife, and children, and all that he had, should be sold for payment. read more.
the servant therefore fell prostrate before him, and cry'd out, Lord, allow me but time and I will pay the whole. upon which the lord of that vassal, touch'd with compassion, gave him his liberty, and discharged him of the debt. but this very servant presently after met with one of his fellow-servants, who owed him an hundred pence: and violently seizing him, said, pay me the debt. and his fellow-servant fell at his feet, and embraced him, saying, allow me time, and I will pay thee all. which he would not allow: but immediately threw him into prison, till he should pay the debt. his fellow-servants upon seeing this were very much concern'd, and went to acquaint their master with what had pass'd. then his lord order'd him to be call'd, and said to him, O thou wicked slave, I forgave thee all thy debt, upon your request: should not you then have had the like compassion for thy fellow servant as I had for thee? so that his lord in great displeasure delivered him to the jayler till he should pay the whole debt. in the same manner will my heavenly father likewise treat you, if ye do not sincerely forgive every one the trespasses of his brother.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Wicked husbandmen

Matthew 21:33-45

Hear another parable: a certain landlord planted a vineyard, hedged it round, set up a wine-press in it, and built a tower, then lett it out to tenants, and went into a foreign country. and when the fruit-season came on, he sent his servants to the tenants, to receive the fruits of it. but they seiz'd his servants, beat some, killed one, and stoned another. read more.
then he sent a greater number of servants, than at first: who met with the same treatment. but last of all, he sent his son, saying, they will reverence my son. but when the tenants saw the son, they said among themselves, this is the heir, come, let us kill him, and then seize on his inheritance. so seizing upon him, they turn'd him out of the vineyard, and slew him. when the master therefore of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants? they answered, he will give those wretches no quarter, and will let out his vineyard to such as shall duly account for the profits thereof. Jesus reply'd, did ye never read in the scriptures, " that very stone which the builders rejected, is become the principal stone of the angle, this the Lord effected, and it is marvellous in our eyes." wherefore I declare to you, the gospel dispensation shall be taken from you, and given to a nation that shall make a proper use thereof. and whosoever shall stumble at this stone, shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, he shall be entirely crush'd. When the chief priests and Pharisees had heard his parables, they perceived that he meant them.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Fig-tree leafing

Matthew 24:32-34

this may be illustrated by a comparison taken from a fig-tree: when the branches become tender, and push out their leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: in like manner, when ye shall see all these things happen, know that he is come to your very doors. I declare unto you, the present generation shall not cease, till all these things are pass'd.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Mustard-seed

Matthew 13:31-32

He propos'd another parable to them, which was this; the gospel-state is like a grain of mustard-seed which a man took to sow in his field. 'tis one indeed of the smallest grains: but when it is grown, it is the largest of the pulse kind, and becomes a tree: so that the birds of the air come and lodge in its branches.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Two sons

Matthew 21:28-32

But what do you think of this? a man had two sons, and coming to the first, he said, son, go, work to-day in my vineyard. I won't, said he: but afterward be chang'd his mind, and went. then he came to the other, and bid him do the same. and he answered, yes, sir; but went not. read more.
which of the two obey'd his father? they said, the first. Jesus reply'd, I declare to you, that the publicans and licentious people enter into the gospel kingdom before you. for John instructed you in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans and the licentious believed him. and tho' you saw that, you did not yet repent, so as to believe him.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Talents

Matthew 25:14-30

So it was when a man was going to travel into a foreign country, he called his servants, and delivered to them his stock: to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to every man according to his respective ability, and then set out on his journey. now he that had received five talents, immediately employed them in trade, and gain'd five talents more. read more.
so he that had received two, gained likewise other two. but he that had received one, went to dig a hole in the ground, and hid his lord's money. after a long time the lord of those servants came, and reckoned with them. accordingly he that had received five talents, came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, you delivered to me five talents: besides those, there's five talents more, which I have gain'd. his lord said to him, well done, thou art an honest faithful servant; thou hast been faithful in a small trust, I will give thee a much larger trust; go in and partake of thy master's diversions. he also that had received two talents, came and said, Lord, you delivered to me two talents: here are two other talents which I have gain'd besides them. his lord said to him, well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful in a small trust, I will give thee a much larger trust: go in and partake of your master's joy. then came he who had received the one talent, and said, Lord, I knew that you were a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered: fear made me hide the talent under ground: but there you have what is your own. his lord answered and said unto him, thou vile slothful wretch, you knew that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not scatter'd: should not you then have lodged my money at the banker's, and so at my return I should have received my own with interest. here, take the talent from him, and give it to him that has the ten. for he that makes use of what he has, shall have more; but if he makes no improvement thereof, it shall be taken from him. take then that worthless fellow, turn him out in the dark, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Parables » Parables in the mouths of fools

Parables » Parables of Christ » Marriage-feast

Matthew 22:2-14

the kingdom of the Messiah is such, as when a certain king made a wedding-feast for his son. he sent out his servants to call those that were invited to the wedding: but they would not come. then he sent out other servants, saying, tell those who are invited, I have prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and every thing is ready: come to the entertainment. read more.
but instead of showing any regard, they went their ways, one to his farm, another to his traffick. others seiz'd his servants, outrageously abused them, and slew them. when the king was informed of this, he was greatly incensed, and having order'd his forces to march, he put those murderers to death, and laid their city in ashes. then he said to his servants, the feast is ready, but they who were invited were very unworthy. go therefore into the high streets, and as many as ye find, invite to the marriage: accordingly they went about the streets, and assembled all they met indifferently, both good and bad: so that the hall was furnished with guests. but upon the king's coming in to see the guests, he observ'd one there without a wedding garment: and he said to him, friend, how came you in hither, without a wedding garment? and he was speechless. then said the king to the servants, bind him hand and foot, take him away, and turn him out in the dark: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. thus many are called, but few are converted.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Laborers hired

Matthew 20:1-16

For the kingdom of the Messiah is like a family, the master whereof went out early in the morning to hire labourers for his vineyard. having agreed with them for a penny a day, he sent them to his vineyard. he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the market-place, and said to them, read more.
go ye likewise to my vineyard, and I will give you what is reasonable: accordingly they went thither. about the sixth and ninth hour he went out again, and gave the like directions. at last, about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and said to them, why do you stand idling thus all day long? they answer'd him, because we are not hired; go work then. said he, in my vineyard, and I will give you what's reasonable. so when even was come, the master of the vineyard said to his steward, call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last to the first. they then that were hired about the eleventh hour, came and received every man his penny. last of all they came who were hired first, expecting to have received more, but they had only a penny a man, who upon the receipt of it fell a murmuring against the master, and cry'd, these last have work'd but an hour, and you put them upon the level with us, who have born the whole fatigue and heat of the day. but he answered one of them, friend, I do thee no wrong: did not you agree for a penny a day? take your due, and be gone: I will give the last the same I give you. can't I do what I will with my own? because I am bountiful, are you invidious? thus the last shall be first, and the first last: for though many are invited, few have precedence.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Wise and foolish builders

Matthew 7:24-27

therefore, whoever heareth these instructions of mine, and puts them in practice, I will compare him to the prudent man, who built his house upon a rock: the rain descended, the floods came, the winds blew, and beat upon that house: but it fell not, for it was founded upon a rock. but every one that heareth these instructions of mine, and practiseth them not, shall be compared to a fool who built his house upon the sand: read more.
the rain descends, the flood rushes on, the winds blow, and beat upon the house: down it falls, and wide are its ruins.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Ten virgins

Matthew 25:1-13

The kingdom of the Messiah will then be such, as when ten virgins took their lamps, and went out to meet the bridegroom. five of them were wise, and five were foolish. they that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: read more.
but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. while the bridegroom tarried, they were drowsy and slept. and at midnight there was a sudden cry, see the bridegroom comes; go and meet him. then the virgins all arose, and trimmed their lamps. and the foolish said to the wise, give us of your oil, for our lamps are going out. but the wise answered, for fear there should not be enough for us and you, go rather to those that sell; and buy for your selves. and while they were gone to buy, the bridegroom came, and they that were ready, entred with him into the hall, and the door was shut. afterwards came the other virgins likewise, and cry'd, Lord, Lord, pray let us in. but he answered, I assure you, I know you not. watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour.

Parables » Remarkable parables of the old testament

Parables » Of the old testament » Of woman of tekoa

Parables » Of the old testament » Of a prophet

Parables » Of the old testament » Of nathan

Parables » Parables of Christ » Man of the house watching

Matthew 24:43

but this you conceive, that if a man knew at what hour of the night the thief would come, he would set a watch, and not suffer his house to be broke open.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Treasure hid in a field

Matthew 13:44

Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hid in a field: a man finds this treasure and buries it again, then goes in great joy, sells all that he hath, and purchases that field.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Rich man and lazarus

Luke 16:19-31

There was a rich man, who used to dress in purple and fine linnen, and pass his days in pomp and luxury. a certain beggar named Lazarus, was lying at his gate, and tho' cover'd with ulcers, the very dogs came and fawned upon him. but he wanted to be fed with the crumbs, that fell from the rich man's table. read more.
at length the beggar died: and was conveyed by the angels to Abraham's bower. the rich man died too, and was buried. and being in the infernal regions of torments, he lift up his eyes, and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bower. and he cry'd out, saying, father Abraham, take pity on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water to cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. but Abraham said, son, remember you had your enjoyments, when you were alive, and Lazarus his misfortunes: but now he has his consolation, and you your torments. besides this, there is an unalterable chasm between us and you, so that the passage from one place to the other is impracticable to those who should attempt it. upon which he said, father, I beg it of you, that you would send him to my father's family, where I have five brothers, to give them warning, lest they also come into this place of torment. but Abraham replied, they have Moses and the prophets, let them mind them. no, father Abraham, said he, they will not: but if any of the dead went to them, they will certainly repent. Abraham replied, if they disregard Moses and the prophets, they will not believe any one, though he rose from the dead.

Parables » Parables of Christ » King going to war

Luke 14:31-33

or where is the king, that will march to give battle to another king, without setting himself first to deliberate, whether he is strong enough with ten thousand to withstand an army of twenty thousand? that in case he is not, he may send an embassy, and desire conditions of peace, before the other approaches. in like manner every one of you must count upon renouncing all that he has, otherwise he cannot be my disciple.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Good samaritan

Luke 10:30-37

to which Jesus answered, a certain man, as he was going from Jerusalem to Jericho, fell among thieves, who stripp'd him, and beat him, then march'd off leaving him half dead. a certain priest happen'd to be travelling that way, who look'd upon him, and then pass'd on. a Levite too came to the same place, gave him a look, and pass'd on. read more.
but a certain Samaritan being on the road, came where he was, and when he saw him, he took compassion on him, went up to him, dress'd his wounds by applying oil and wine, then set him upon his own mule, and brought him to an inn, where he took care of him. upon his departure the next day, he took out two denarii, and gave them to the master of the house, take care of him, said he, and I will repay you all the charges you are at, upon my return. which now of the three do you think was neighbour to the man that was robb'd. he, reply'd the doctor, who took pity on him. then said Jesus to him, go then, and imitate his example.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Cloud and wind

Luke 12:54-57

Then he said to the people, when you see a cloud rise out of the west, you say, it is just going to rain; and so it happens. and when the south wind blows, you say, there will be heat; and so it happens. Hypocrites, you can judge of the phoenomena of the earth, and of the sky, but why can't you discern the present times? read more.
why can't you judge what is proper to be done in your own affairs.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Savor of salt

Luke 14:34-35

salt is good, but if the salt has lost its savour, with what shall it be recovered? it would be fit neither for the land, nor for the dunghil, but only to be thrown away. he that hath ears to hear, let him hear.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Rich fool

Luke 12:16-21

to which purpose he propos'd to them this parable: a rich man had some land that was very fruitful. and thus he reason'd with himself, what shall I do for want of room to store up my crop? this will I do, said he, I will pull down my barns, and build greater: and there I will bestow all my rich product. read more.
then I will say to my soul, soul, you have many enjoyments in reserve for a number of years; take your ease, eat, drink, and be merry. but God said to him, thou fool, this night shall thy soul be required of thee: who then shall enjoy what thou hast provided? such is he, who heaps up his treasure here, and makes no provision for another world.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Pounds

Luke 19:12-27

a nobleman, said he, was going to travel to a foreign country, in order to have his kingdom confirm'd to him at his return. and he called ten of his servants, to whom he deliver'd ten pounds: improve that, said he, till I return. but he being hated by the citizens, after he was gone, they sent a deputation to court, to make this protest, "we will not have him for our king." read more.
upon his return, being confirm'd king, he order'd the servants, he had trusted with the money, to appear, and inform him, what improvement each of them had made. the first came and said, Lord, your one pound has gained ten more. he answer'd, honest servant, that's well: since your industry has made so much of so little, I give you the government of ten cities. then the second came, and said, Lord, your pound has produc'd five more. his master replied, you shall be governor of five cities. but another came and said, Lord, here's your money, which I laid up safe in a napkin. for I was in fear of you, knowing you to be a hard master, who exact what you never gave, and reap where you have never sown. wicked slave, said he, from your own mouth will I convict thee. "you knew I was a hard master, exacting what I never gave, and reaping where I never sowed: " why then did you not lodge my money in the bank, that on my return I might have drawn it out with interest? then he said to his attendants, take the one pound from him, and give it him, that gain'd ten. but they objected, Lord, he has already ten pounds: I tell you, said he, that to every one who improves, more shall be given: and he that makes no improvement, shall be stript of what he has. as for those enemies of mine, who would not have me for their king, bring them here, and slay them in my presence.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Man taking a far journey

Mark 13:34-37

when a man travels into foreign parts, he leaves his goods in charge to his servants, he appoints to every one his task, and orders the porter to be vigilant, watch ye therefore (for you don't know when the master of the house will return; whether at evening, or at midnight, or at the cock-crowing, or in the morning) for fear by his sudden return he should surprize you sleeping. read more.
what I say to you, I say to all, be vigilant.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Unclean spirit

Matthew 12:43

When an unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he roams about the deserts, seeking rest, and findeth none.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Prodigal son

Luke 15:11-32

Again he said: a certain man had two sons; the younger of which said to his father, father, give me that portion of the estate which falls to my share. accordingly he divided his estate among them. a little while after the younger son turn'd all he had into money, and travell'd into a foreign country, where he squander'd away his fortune in luxurious living. read more.
when he had spent all, there happen'd to be a severe famine in that country; and he was reduced to want, which forc'd him to make his application to one of the inhabitants there, who sent him to his farm to look after his swine. for he would have been contented to have liv'd upon the carruways, with which they usually fed the swine: but nobody would supply him. at length coming to himself, how many, said he, does my father keep in pay, who have bread in abundance, whilst I am dying here with hunger? I will depart, and go to my father, and say to him, father, I have sinned against heaven, and against thee; I am no longer worthy to be called your son: treat me as one of your hir'd servants. so he departed and went to his father. but while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him, and mov'd with compassion, ran and threw himself upon his neck, and kissed him. then the son said to him, father, I have sinned against heaven, and against you, I am no longer worthy to be called your son. but the father said to his servants, bring hither the finest robe, and put it on him: put a ring on his finger, and shoes on his feet. take the fatted calf, and kill it: let us eat and be merry: for this son of mine was dead, and is come to life: he was lost, and is found again. and then they began their feast. In the mean time his elder son was in the country. at his return, when he came near home, he heard the musick and dancing: and calling one of the servants, he ask'd what was the occasion of it, who reply'd, your brother is return'd, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him in good health. upon this he was full of resentment, and refused to go in: and when his father came out to persuade him, he replied to his father, how many years have I serv'd you, without having ever disobey'd your orders? and yet you never bestow'd a kid upon me, to make merry with my friends: whereas this son of yours, who has eat up his fortune among a pack of loose creatures, is no sooner come but you must kill the fatted calf for him. son, said he to him, you shall continue to be with me, and all that I have shall be thine. but it was necessary to feast and rejoice, because your brother here was dead, and is again alive: he was lost and is now found.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Leaven

Matthew 13:33

Another of his parables was this; the gospel-state is like unto leaven, which a woman took and mixt with three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.

Parables » Parables of Christ » New cloth and old garment

Matthew 9:16

new cloth is never patch'd upon an old garment: for the patch will draw the garment, and rend it still worse.

Parables » Parables of Christ » New wine and old bottles

Matthew 9:17

neither do men put new wine into old skins: if they should, the bottles will burst, so that the wine will be lost and the skins be spoil'd: but they put new wine into new skins, whereby both are preserved.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Men bidden to a feast

Luke 14:7-11

Afterwards observing how eager the guests were for the first places, he gave them this instruction: when any one invites you to a wedding, don't put yourself in the highest seat: for fear some person of greater distinction should be a guest, and he that invited you both, should come and bid you give place to him; and you should have the disgrace of taking the lowest seat. read more.
but when you are invited, go place your self last; that he, who invited you, when he comes, may say to you, friend, go up higher: and that will do you honour before all the company at table. for he that exalteth himself, shall be humbled, and he that humbleth himself, shall be exalted.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Pharisee and publican

Luke 18:9-14

Then he propos'd this parable, concerning those who had a great opinion of their own justice, and look'd with contempt upon others. two men went to the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, the other a Publican. the Pharisee in a standing posture pray'd thus by himself, O God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men, a robber, a cheat, an adulterer, or like that Publican. read more.
I fast twice a week, and I pay the tythe of all I possess. but the Publican, who stood a good way lower, not daring to lift up even his eyes to heaven, only smote his breast, and said, O God, be merciful to me, who am a sinner. I tell you this man went home approv'd as just, and not the other. for whoever exalteth himself shall be humbled, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Lost piece of silver

Luke 15:8-10

or if a woman, that has ten pieces of money, should lose one of them, will she not light a lamp, sweep the house, and carefully search, till she find it? and when 'tis found, will she not call her friends aud neighbours together, and say, rejoice with me, for I have found the piece, I had lost? even so, I assure you, the angels in heaven rejoice, when any one sinner becomes a penitent.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Creditor and debtors

Luke 7:41-47

A certain creditor had two debtors, the one owed five hundred denarys, and the other fifty. having not wherewithal to pay it, he freely discharged them both of the debt. tell me now, which of the two will love him most? I think, said Simon, he that had the greatest debt remitted to him. you are in the right, said Jesus. read more.
and turning to the woman, he said to Simon, do you observe this woman? though I am a guest in your house, you never offer'd me any water for my feet: but she has bath'd my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head. you did not salute me, but this woman, since she came in, has been continually kissing my feet. you did not bestow any oil upon my head; but she has poured her rich perfume upon my feet. wherefore, I tell you, her sins, which are numerous, are forgiven; and that is the reason of all this love: but his love is less, to whom less is forgiven.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Tree and its fruit

Luke 6:43-45

Certainly a good tree does not produce bad fruit: nor does a bad tree produce good fruit. for every tree is known by its fruit: it is not on thorns that men gather figs, nor do they gather grapes on a bramble bush. a good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces what is good: and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart produces what is evil: for 'tis from the abundance of the heart, that the mouth speaketh.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Beam and mote

Luke 6:41-42

How comes it, that you can see the mote in your brother's eye, and not see the beam that is in your own eye? or how can you say to your brother, brother, let me take out the mote, that is in your eye, when you your self don't discern the beam that is in your own eye? hypocrite, first remove the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the mote out of your brother's eye.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Children of the bride-chamber

Parables » Parables of Christ » Seed growing secretly

Mark 4:26-29

Again, he said, the state of the gospel is like that of the grain, which a man sows in his land: however he takes his repose by night, or is employ'd by day, the grain shoots up and grows without his inspection. for the earth spontaneously produces, first the blade, then the ear, after that the grain of corn in the ear. read more.
but as soon as the fruit is ripe, the sickle is applied, because the harvest is come.

Parables » Of the garment which was torn in pieces

Parables » Of the skins filled with wine

Parables » Of the prisoner of war

Parables » Of the husbandman

Parables » Parables of Christ » Importunate friend

Luke 11:5-9

Then he said to them, suppose any of you should go to his friend at midnight; and say to him, friend, lend me three loaves: for a friend of mine, a traveller, is come to my house, and I have nothing to entertain him with. and he within should give this answer, don't trouble me now: the door is made fast, and my family are all in bed: I can't get up to supply you. read more.
I tell you, tho' he will not rise, to supply him, out of friendship: yet out of regard to his importunity, he will rise, and lend him whatever he has occasion for. I tell you likewise, ask, and it shall be given: seek, and ye shall find: knock, and the door shall be opened.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Importunate widow

Luke 18:1-8

Jesus propos'd likewise this parable to them, to show that they should persevere in prayer, and not be discouraged. saying, in a certain city there was a judge, who neither feared God, nor regarded man. a widow was likewise there, who frequently came to him, saying, do me justice against my adversary. read more.
for some time he refus'd to do it: but at length he said in himself; tho' I neither fear God, nor regard man; yet, because this widow importunes me, I will do her justice, that she may'nt be continually coming to teaze me. observe, said Jesus, that language of this unrighteous judge. and will not God avenge his own elect, who cry to him night and day? will he delay their cause? I tell you, he will speedily avenge them. however, when the son of man comes, how few of the faithful will he find in the land?

Parables » Parables of Christ » Barren fig-tree

Luke 13:6-9

He proposed likewise this parable: a certain man had a fig-tree planted in his vineyard, and he came expecting it should have had fruit, but he found none. then he said to the vine-dresser, you see, I have been looking these three years for fruit from this fig-tree, but find none: hew it down, why should it cumber my ground? to which he made answer, sir, let it alone one year longer, till I shall dig about it, and dung it. read more.
perhaps it may bear fruit: if not, you may after that hew it down.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Unjust steward

Luke 16:1-8

Jesus said likewise to his disciples, a certain rich man had an information against his steward, for making havock of his estate. upon making him appear, he said to him, what information is this, I hear against thee? give an account of your administration, for you must not be my steward any longer. upon which the steward said in himself, what shall I do, now my master strips me of my employment? dig I cannot: and 'tis shameful to beg: I see it now, read more.
I must do something that will secure me a reception in other families, when I have lost my place in this. so he sent for every one of his master's debtors in private, he ask'd the first, how much do you owe my master? a hundred measures of oil, said he. take your bill, said the steward, sit down there, and write out one immediately for fifty. then he said to another, how much do you owe? a hundred measures of wheat, said he. take your bill, says the steward, and write out one for fourscore. and this unfaithful steward was commended by his master for being so provident. for they who look to this world, manage their affairs with more prudence, than those who have a prospect of a better.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Vine and branches

John 15:1-5

I am the genuine vine, and my father is the vintager. every branch in me that beareth not fruit, he takes away: as for the branch that bears fruit, he prunes it clean, to make it more fruitful. you are already clean by the instructions I have given you. read more.
be attach'd to me, and I shall be so to you. as the branch cannot bear fruit of it self, except it be attach'd to the vine: so neither can you, except you continue attach'd to me. I am the vine, you are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for independent of me ye can do nothing.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Good shepherd

John 10:1-6

I assure you, he that entreth not by the door into the sheep-fold, but climbeth up some other way, is a thief and a robber. but he that enters in by the door, is the pastor of the sheep. the porter lets him in, and the sheep know his voice: he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out to pasture. read more.
when he lets out his own sheep, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him: because they know his voice. a stranger they will not follow, but flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. Jesus talk'd to them in this figurative way: but they did not understand the meaning of his discourse.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Lost sheep

Luke 15:3-7

but he propos'd to them this parable. who of you that has an hundred sheep, will not, upon losing one, leave the ninety nine in the desart, to go after that which is lost, till he finds it? and when he hath found it, joyfully lay it upon his shoulders? read more.
and when he comes home, call his friends and neighbours together, and say to them, rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep, that was lost? I tell you, that there shall likewise be greater joy in heaven for one sinner that repents, than for ninety nine just persons, that need no repentance.

Parables » The sheet lowered down from the sky (in peter's vision)

Acts 10:10-16

and being seiz'd with hunger, he would have had something to eat: but while they were making it ready, he fell into a trance, when he saw the heaven open, and something descending in the form of a great sheet, ty'd at the four corners, and let down to the earth: in it were all sorts of quadrupeds, reptiles, and birds. read more.
and a voice said to him, rise, Peter; kill and eat. but Peter said, not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean. and the voice spake to him again the second time, don't call that common, which God calls clean. this was done thrice: and then the sheet was taken up into heaven.

Parables » Of the woman of tekoa

Parables » Furnished house

2 Timothy 2:20-21

in a palace there are vessels not only of gold, and of silver, but of wood and of earth likewise: some are for honourable uses, and others for meaner purposes. he that is clear of vice, is a vessel of the first kind, sanctified and fit for the master's use, and qualified for every virtuous action.

Parables » The mirror

James 1:23-25

for a bare auditor without practice is like one who sees his image form'd by a mirror: he takes a view, turns away, and instantly loses his appearance. whereas, he that attentively considers the perfect law of liberty, and is attach'd thereto, he is not a forgetful hearer, but reduces it to practice, and his conduct is crown'd with hapiness.

Parables » The gourd

Parables » Of the old testament » Of jotham

Parables » Of a vine of egypt

Parables » Of lions' cubs

Parables » Of the lamb

Parables » The two covenants

Galatians 4:22-31

for it is there written, Abraham had two sons, the one by a bond-maid, the other by a free-woman. he, who was of the bond-woman, was born according to the ordinary course of nature; but he, who was of the free-woman, was born by virtue of the promise. these things have an allegorical meaning: the two women signify the two covenants, the one from mount Sinai, which is represented by Agar, whose children were born in a state of servitude. read more.
this Agar answers to the Jerusalem now in being, for she is in servitude with her children: but the heavenly Jerusalem is represented by the free-woman, who is the mother of us all. for it is written, "rejoice thou barren, that bearest not; break out into loud acclamations, thou that hast not the travels of childbirth, for more are the children of the desolate, than of her that hath an husband." Now we, my brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of the promise. but as then, he that was born in the ordinary course of nature, persecuted him, who was born by an extraordinary power; even so it is now. but what saith the scripture? "cast out the bond-woman and her son; for the son of the bond-woman shall not share the inheritance with the son of the free-woman." so then, my brethren, we are not children of the bond-woman, but of the free-woman, by virtue of that freedom which Christ has procur'd for us.

Parables » The boiling pot

Parables » Parables of Christ » Kingdom, divided against itself

Mark 3:24

if a kingdom be divided against it self, that kingdom cannot last.

Parables » Parables of Christ » House, divided against itself

Mark 3:25

if a family be divided against it self, it is impossible for it to subsist.

Parables » Parables of Christ » Blind leading the blind

Luke 6:39

And by way of comparison he said to them, can the blind lead the blind without tumbling both into the ditch?

Parables » The mercenary soldier

2 Timothy 2:3-4

bravely endure hardships, like a soldier of Jesus Christ. he that enters into the service, disengages himself from civil affairs, that he may be acceptable to his officer.

Parables » Of the trees

Parables » Of the thistle and cedar

Parables » The athlete

Parables » The farmer

Parables » Of aholah and aholibah

Parables » Of the two eagles

Topics on Parables

Jesus Using Parables

Matthew 13:3

Then he talk'd to them much in parables, and said, a sower went out to sow.

Old Testament Parables

Galatians 4:24

these things have an allegorical meaning: the two women signify the two covenants, the one from mount Sinai, which is represented by Agar, whose children were born in a state of servitude.

Others Using Parables

Matthew 13:35

so that this saying of the prophet was fulfilled, "I will talk in parables, I will utter what has been kept secret from the foundation of the world."

Parables About The Last Judgment

Matthew 13:47-50

Again, the gospel-kingdom is like a net that is cast into the sea, and draws all sorts of fish:

Parables Of Agriculture

Matthew 13:3-9

Then he talk'd to them much in parables, and said, a sower went out to sow.

Parables Of Christ

Matthew 7:24-27

therefore, whoever heareth these instructions of mine, and puts them in practice, I will compare him to the prudent man, who built his house upon a rock:

Parables Of Sowing

Matthew 13:3-8

Then he talk'd to them much in parables, and said, a sower went out to sow.

Parables Of The Kingdom

Mark 4:30

Again he said, to what shall we compare the state of the gospel? or by what parable shall we represent it?

Parables Of The Kingdom Of Heaven

Mark 4:26-29

Again, he said, the state of the gospel is like that of the grain, which a man sows in his land:

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Theasaurus: Parables