Parables – College Essay Example
Parables – College Essay Example

Parables – College Essay Example

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  • Pages: 3 (597 words)
  • Published: October 10, 2017
  • Type: Research Paper
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The Gospels feature Jesus telling simple stories called parables to impart moral or spiritual lessons. The word "parable" originates from the Greek term "parabola," which denotes comparison, illustration, or analogy. Originally in Greek, it encompassed fictional illustrations delivered through brief narratives.

The Greeks later modified the meaning of the term "parabola" to describe a fictional story that typically illustrated spiritual and moral messages. Jesus frequently used parables to elucidate concepts about the kingdom of God and the essence of God. These parables allowed Jesus to teach controversial ideas without provoking confrontation with the Religious Leaders.

The text discusses three types of parables and gives examples for each. It explains that parables are subversive devices used by Jesus to teach controversial ideas without risking confrontation with Religious Leaders. By using parables, Jesus c

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ould convey his message indirectly and avoid potential trouble with the Religious Leaders.

Jesus' adversaries were always searching for chances to use against him. By employing parables, he made it difficult for them to accuse him of saying anything forbidden, since parables were confusing and he couldn't be arrested merely for telling captivating stories. Subversive refers to methods that aim to undermine, overthrow, or dismantle an established government, institution, or belief.

In my opinion, calling parables aversive devices means that parables are illustrations or stories used by Jesus to convey his message, while also challenging the beliefs of the Religious Leaders and society at that time. By using parables, Jesus was able to avoid getting into trouble with the Religious Leaders. This is because parables are difficult for people to understand. The Good Samaritan, as an example of a parable, demonstrates this subversiveness

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It can be found in Luke 10:29-37.

The parable seems subversive as the despised Samaritan went against societal norms, unlike the Priest and Temple Assistant. Despite being looked down upon, he took the initiative to help the injured man. Not only did he provide immediate care by dressing the wounds, but he also stayed overnight at an Inn to ensure the man's well-being. Moreover, he paid the Innkeeper two silver coins to continue caring for him.

Jesus stressed the importance of loving one another, a message that remains relevant today. In The Greatest Commandment (Matthew 22: 34 - 40), Jesus explains the two most important commandments to the Pharisees. First, it is vital to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. Second, we should also love our neighbors as ourselves. Additionally, in Love For Enemies (Luke 6: 27 - 36), Jesus teaches us to show affection even towards those who harm us by responding kindly when confronted with aggression.

According to Jesus, it is important to not withhold your shirt from someone who takes your coat. He advocated for giving to anyone who asks and advised against reclaiming what is rightfully yours. Jesus taught the golden rule, which is treating others as you would like to be treated. He stressed the significance of demonstrating mercy, mirroring our heavenly Father's mercy. In terms of judging others, Jesus specifically forbade judging or condemning others because doing so would lead to being judged or condemned oneself (Luke 6: 37 - 41).

The quote "Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you." emphasizes the message of forgiveness and giving. This same

sentiment is reflected in the parable 'Love For Enemies', which promotes treating others with kindness. All three parables share Jesus' key teaching of loving one another, a teaching that remains relevant today for fostering a harmonious society. Without self-love and love for others, society would become consumed by hatred and negativity, resulting in violence, death, and wars.

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