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NASB | Matthew 13:10 ¶ And the disciples came and said to Him, "Why do You speak to them in parables?" |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Matthew 13:10 ¶ Then the disciples came to Him and asked, "Why do You speak to the crowds in parables?" |
Subject: SEEKING FOR THE TRUTH |
Bible Note: Here are a few notes from my seminary class in hermeneutics that might be of value, specifically dealing with sound parabolic interpretation: Definition: A parable is a brief story drawn from human life or nature, not related to an actual event, but is true to life and, concerning the listeners, is given for the purpose of teaching a spiritual truth. CHARACTERISTICS OF PARABLES 1. Parables teach a truth using the technique of similarity or illustration. 2. Parables are usually very short, thus they are intended to be easily remembered. 3. Parables can be described as simultaneously very simple and very complex. 4. Parables use earthly things as teaching instruments. 5. Parables have only one primary point. 6. Parables typically are composed of three parts: (1) the setting (cultural context); (2) a story; and (3) a spiritual application. 7. Parables are intended to teach faithful disciples. 8. Parables are intended to hide the truth from the disobedient. GUIDELINES FOR INTERPRETING PARABLES 1. Study the setting and the cultural background. 2. Read the story in its natural meaning. In other words, take it literally. 3. Determine the one central truth taught in the story. Learn to separate the unimportant details from the important issues. (Note that this isn't always an easy thing to do.) 4. Check to see if Jesus or other Scriptures interpret the parable for you. (Note: If Jesus gives an explanation, DO NOT look any for another!) 5. Check to see if the interpretation or point of a parable is dealt with in a doctrinal section of the scriptures, particularly the epistles. (This principle is called the Analogy of Faith.) 6. Check with good commentaries. (Use the commentaries to verify that your interpretation is not too far off from what is understood in Christian Biblical orthodoxy.) 7. Look for specific applications of the point of a parable to your own life. Apply what you discover to your life in a specific way. IMPORTANT NOTE: Solid interpretation must ALWAYS precede application. You cannot apply what you do not understand. |