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 |
| Widow & Judge | . | . | Lke 18:1-8 |
| Pharisee & Tax Collector | . | . | 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 | . | . |
| Wicked 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
Series: Bible Study 101
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