Friday, August 13, 2010

The Power of Parable

"Images are concrete expressions of abstract ideas, the existential embodiment of the rational word. Images, whether they are stories, pictures or music, are incarnations of ideas--words made flesh." -- Pg. 102, Word Pictures by Brian Godawa

Why does Jesus teach using so many images and metaphors? Why can't he simply answer a straight question? Why does he ask so many questions and tell so many stories? Why does he perform so many miracles? Why doesn't he perform more miracles?

These questions and many more abound regarding the sayings and teachings of Christ. But I think they all revolve around an understanding of the nature and design of parables. Before Sunday, take a moment to read Mark 4, carefully noting vs. 11: "To you has been given the mystery of the kingdom of God; but those who are outside get everything in parables."

1 comment:

D2 said...

Jesus was the ultimate teacher. He used every teaching style available to reach every learning style. He was WAY ahead of his time! :O)