• What are parables?
  • Around how many parables did Jesus teach in His ministry? Why would parables have been a very effective means of teaching?
  • What did the parables often do to Jesus’ audience? What are some of the themes of His parables?
  • List some examples of parables that are found in the Old Testament?
  • Explain the meaning of the parable of the tares (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43). What does this parable teach us about the kingdom of God?
  • What are two extremes that need to be avoided when studying parables?
  • What Bible study rules do we need to apply when studying Jesus’ parables?