Jesus often taught in parables. Parables are stories which include a dramatic illustration that makes and impact on the listener and calls for a response. Parables are serious theology. But they are metaphorical theology. They teach through metaphor, simile, and dramatic action rather than through logic or reasoning. Here’s a list of the parables of Jesus as recorded in the gospels.
| Parable | Matthew | Mark | Luke |
| Sower & the Seed | Mt 13:1-23 | Mk 4:1-20 | Lk 8:1-18 |
| Wheat & Weeds | Mt 13:24-30; Mt 13:36-43 | . | . |
| Seed Growing | Mk 4:26-29 | ||
| Mustard Seed | Mt 13:31-32 | Mk 4:30-32 | Lk 13:18-19 |
| Leaven | Mt 13:33 | . | Lk 13:20 |
| Hidden Treasure | Mt 13:44 | . | . |
| Pearl of Great Price | Mt 13:45-46 | . | . |
| Casting the Net | Mt 13:47-50 | . | . |
| Unforgiving Servant | Mt 18:23-35 | . | . |
| Good Samaritan | Lk 10:-25-37 | ||
| Friend at Midnight | Lk 11:1-13 | ||
| Rich Fool | Lk 12:13-21 | ||
| Ready Servants | Lk 12:36-48 | ||
| Fig Tree | Lk 13:6-9 | ||
| Wedding Feast | Lk 14:7-11 | ||
| Great Banquet | Lk 14:12-14 | ||
| King/ Builder | Lk 14:25-35 | ||
| Lost Sheep | Mt 18:10-14 | . | Lk 15:1-7 |
| Lost Coin | . | . | Lk 15:8-10 |
| Lost (Prodigal) Sons | . | . | Lk 15:11-32 |
| Unjust Steward | . | . | Lk 16:1-13 |
| Rich Man & Lazarus | . | . | Lk 18:9-14 |
| Vineyard Workers | Mt 20:1-16 | . | . |
| Talents | Mt 25:14-30 | . | Lk 19:11-27 |
| Two Sons | Mt 21:28-32 | . | . |
| Vineyard Tenants | Mt 21:33-46 | Mk 12:1-12 | Lk 20:9-18 |
| Marriage Feast | Mt 22:1-14 | ||
| Wise & Foolish Virgins | Mt 25:1-12 | ||
| Unclean Spirits (allegory) | Mt 12:43-45 |
Part of the Series: Parables of Jesus
Study a particular book
Bible Study 101: Learn how to study the Bible
Bible Study 201: Learn to teach the Bible
General Study Resources: Maps, charts, reference works, websites & tools
Study Resources: by Book of the Bible
Resources for Ministry Leaders
(Visited 251 times, 6 visits today)
