Studying The Parables Of Jesus

Preface
Critical Introduction
Chapter 1. Recent Study Of The Parables
Chapter 2. The Nature Of Parables
Chapter 3. Special Literary Considerations

Part I: The Sure Coming Of The Kingdom
Chapter 4. Impetus To Hearing And Hoping: The Parable Of The Sower, The Seed, And The Soils
Chapter 5. An Appeal To Religious Imagination : The Parable Of The Mustard Seed
Chapter 6. An Invitation To Faith : The Parable Of The Seed Growing On Its Own

Part II: The Crisis Of The Coming Kingdom
Chapter 7. Prophetic Call For National Repentance: The Parable Of The Barren Fig Tree
Chapter 8. Exposure Of Inauthentic Existence: The Parable Of The Rich Fool
Chapter 9. Call To Existential Decision : The Parable Of The Six Brothers

Part III: The Grace And Repentance Of The Kingdom
Chapter 10. Gospel For The Lost (1): The Parable Of The Lost Sheep And The Lost Coin
Chapter 11. Gospel For The Lost (2): The Parable Of The Compassionate Father And The Angry Brother
Chapter 12. Portrait Of Radical Grace And Stunning Penitence: The Parable Of The Pharisee And The Tax Collector

Part IV: The Character Of Discipleship In The Kingdom
Chapter 13. The Imperative Of Forgiveness: The Parable Of The Unmerciful Servant
Chapter 14. The Love Command In Parable: The Parable Of The Compassionate Samaritan
Chapter 15. Pastoral Call To Perseverance: The Parable Of The Persistent Widow And The Reluctant Judge

Practical Addendum
Chapter 16. Preaching And Teaching The Parables
Index

Additional Info
Studying the Parables of Jesus is a primer on the historical and literary approaches to biblical study. This book not only gives helpful insights into preaching the parables, but also interacts with the newest scholarship on the subject. The chapters of exegesis approach a select group of parables for a more intensive analysis. While reserving much of the technical details for the endnotes, the text includes discussion of critical issues and alternative opinions. Questions and exercises are appended at the close of each chapter for personal use or classroom discussion