FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD” (Matthew 13:34-35). As a means of fulfilling the Old Testament scripture, Jesus uses parables no fewer than thirty-two times to extract His spiritual meaning from the natural examples provided. As we seek ways to strengthen our personal relationship with God, and to glory Him at all times, the parables of Jesus set forth a flawless road map, or guideline(s), in which to follow. Our spoken words, thoughts, and deeds (actions) should mirror the example that Jesus set for us all to follow. The following parables are worthy of examination:
Words (spoken) “Parable of the Soils” In this parable, Jesus is teaching a great multitude of people. Jesus’ location is on a ship and the people are gathered on land nearby. As Jesus teaches, He urges His audience to listen intently to His message by uttering His famous quote, “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear” (verse 9). Jesus’ words are ministering life into those that have a desire to hear. Further, Jesus asks, “Know ye not this parable? and how then will ye know all parables?” (verse 13) Jesus uses this parable to compare the sower of seeds (one who scatters seed on the ground, perhaps a farmer) and the sower that sows the Word (of God). For the farmer, not all seeds sown will mature and grow. Some will fall by the wayside and encounter the dangers of the stony ground, birds that eat
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