Parables are short, simple stories that teach spiritual lessons. Jesus often used parables to explain deep truths in ways people could understand. These stories used everyday events—like farming, weddings, and family life—to help listeners think about the kingdom of God.
What Is a Parable?
A parable is a teaching tool. It’s not a fable or myth. A parable usually uses real-life situations to show what God's kingdom is like. Jesus often ended His parables with a lesson or question, making people think deeper.
Example:
In the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30–37), Jesus taught that true love for your neighbor isn’t about religion or race—it’s about action and mercy.
How Many Parables Did Jesus Teach?
Most Bible scholars agree that Jesus told around 35 to 40 parables. Some count more depending on how they define a parable. These stories are found mostly in the first three Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The Gospel of John has no direct parables, though it includes symbolic language and metaphors.
| Gospel | Estimated Number of Parables |
|---|---|
| Matthew | 23 |
| Mark | 9 |
| Luke | 28 |
| John | 0 (uses symbolic speech) |
Famous Parables in the Bible
Here are a few well-known parables and where to find them:
| Parable | Scripture Reference |
|---|---|
| The Sower | Matthew 13:3–9 |
| The Good Samaritan | Luke 10:30–37 |
| The Prodigal Son | Luke 15:11–32 |
| The Lost Sheep | Luke 15:1–7 |
| The Wise and Foolish Builders | Matthew 7:24–27 |
| The Ten Virgins | Matthew 25:1–13 |
| The Mustard Seed | Matthew 13:31–32 |
Why Did Jesus Use Parables?
Jesus said He used parables to reveal truth to those with open hearts, but also to hide it from those who were hard-hearted. He quoted Isaiah when He said:
“Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand.”
— Matthew 13:13 (NIV)
Parables were like mirrors. They helped people see their own hearts. For some, they brought light. For others, they brought conviction.
Parables in the Old Testament
While Jesus is the most famous teacher of parables, the Old Testament also includes a few parable-like stories. These aren’t as common, but they carry the same idea.
Examples:
- Nathan’s parable to David – 2 Samuel 12:1–4
- The Parable of the Trees – Judges 9:7–15
- Ezekiel’s allegories – Ezekiel 17:1–10
These stories used symbolic language to confront kings, deliver warnings, or explain God's plan.
Summary Table: Parables in the Bible
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Parables of Jesus (main total) | ~35–40 |
| Unique Parables in Matthew | About 10–12 |
| Unique Parables in Mark | About 2–3 |
| Unique Parables in Luke | About 15–18 |
| Parables in the Old Testament | 3–5 (varies by definition) |
Final Thoughts
Parables were Jesus’ favorite way to teach truth. He told short stories, but their meaning stretched deep into the hearts of listeners. When we read a parable, we should ask: “What is Jesus saying to me?”
“He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”
— Luke 8:8 (NKJV)
