Today, we’re talking about The Power of Parables – Lessons from Jesus' Stories
Jesus was the greatest storyteller of all time. He used simple, everyday examples—like seeds, lamps, and lost coins—to reveal deep spiritual truths. Today, we’re diving into the parables—why Jesus used them, what they teach us, and how we can apply them to our lives today.
“Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables.” — Matthew 13:34
Have you ever heard a Bible story and felt like it spoke directly to you? That’s the power of a parable! Today, we’ll unpack some of Jesus’ most famous parables and discover what they mean for us.
Why Did Jesus Teach in Parables?
Jesus used parables to reveal truth to those who were ready and conceal it from those with hardened hearts.
Stories make complex truths easier to understand and remember. We know that we are able to better relate to stories that others have walked through or just to have some kind of connection with.
“You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others are not.” — Matthew 13:11
When reading a parable, ask: What does this reveal about God? How does it apply to me? If it brings any kind of connection, then research the Scripture and seek the Lord.
Have you ever had a Bible verse suddenly “click” for you?
The Parable of the Sower – What Kind of Soil Are You?
“The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God’s word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!” — Matthew 13:23
The four types of soil represent different responses to God’s Word: the hard path, rocky, thorny, and good soil.
There is importance in preparing our hearts to receive truth. If we are not open or even ready, then we can miss it. But I think the Lord knows us, and He will soften our hearts when it is time for us to receive what He has for us.
Spend time in prayer before reading Scripture, asking God to soften your heart.
Which type of soil best represents your heart right now?
The Mustard Seed – Small Faith, Big Impact
“Here is another illustration Jesus used: ‘The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches.’” — Matthew 13:31-32
Faith doesn’t have to start big—it just has to be real. Like this Scripture says, the mustard seed is one of the smallest seeds, but it grows to be the biggest tree. God plants things inside of us, and though they seem small to us, when we nurture them and work on growing the roots, they can become something huge because God guided them.
God can take small beginnings and grow them into something powerful.
Take one small step of faith today—whether that’s praying for someone, sharing your testimony, or trusting God with a worry.
What “mustard seed” of faith do you need to plant today?
The Lost Sheep – Because God Pursues Us
“If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them gets lost, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost?” — Matthew 18:12
God’s love is personal—He seeks after the one who is lost.
No matter how far we wander, God never stops pursuing us.
If you know someone who has drifted from faith, pray for them and reach out with love.
Have you ever felt like the “one” that God came after? If so, I would love to hear your story. You can give me a call, send me a message, or email me.
Visit kjic.org for contact information.
The Prodigal Son – God’s Mercy Knows No Limits
“His father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet.’” — Luke 15:22
This parable shows us that God welcomes us home no matter how far we’ve run.
The older brother’s reaction of anger and jealousy reminds us to celebrate grace, not resent it. God made a change, and that is what we are to be celebrating. God’s abundant grace and mercy bring new life.
If you struggle with guilt or shame, remind yourself that God’s love is bigger than your past mistakes.
Do you relate more to the prodigal son or the older brother?
“There is more joy in heaven over one lost sinner who repents and returns to God than over ninety-nine others who are righteous and haven’t strayed away.” — Luke 15:7
I grew up in church, and though I did things I shouldn’t have, I never really strayed too far away from the Lord because every time I did something, God convicted me. Through that grace, I was able to learn lessons and return quickly. The heavens rejoice every time repentance happens—no matter what that repentance looks like, the Lord loves when we turn to Him.
Write down one way God has shown you mercy and thank Him for it today.
Who in your life needs to hear about God’s grace today?
The Wise and Foolish Builders – Building on a Firm Foundation
“Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock.” — Matthew 7:24
A strong foundation in Christ helps us stand firm when life’s storms come.
We often talk about letting Christ be our foundation here at Rise and Shine, and I think that it is so important because, through this life, we at least will be sure-footed when we are following and leaning on the Lord.
There is a difference between hearing God’s Word and applying it. We are to obey the call, and when we apply what the Lord teaches us, we are making an impact.
Make it a habit to apply one truth from the Bible to your daily life.
Are you building your life on rock or sand?
The Ten Bridesmaids – Staying Ready
I really love this parable. There are 10 bridesmaids waiting for the bridegroom (Jesus). Five come with enough oil for their lamps—they were prepared. The other five didn’t have enough. They had to leave to get more oil, and in the time they were gone, they missed the coming of the bridegroom.
“So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return.” — Matthew 25:13
Jesus calls us to be spiritually prepared, not complacent.
Living with expectancy keeps our faith active.
Set a reminder to pray daily and ask God to prepare your heart for His plans.
If Jesus came back today, would you be ready?
The Good Samaritan – Love in Action
To summarize, a man was beaten and left for dead. Many people, including priests, passed by without helping. But a Samaritan—someone despised by others—went above and beyond to care for him.
“Now go and do the same.” — Luke 10:37b
Love isn’t just a feeling; it’s an action. True compassion crosses barriers.
That is what the Samaritan did, he crosses barriers. He was despised by many but he did not care. He saw a need and he took action and showed love and kindness.
Look for one opportunity to show unexpected kindness today.
Who is your “neighbor” that God is calling you to love?
Jesus’ parables weren’t just nice stories—they were calls to action. Whether it’s trusting God, receiving His grace, or loving others, He challenges us to live differently.
“Jesus replied, ‘But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice.’” — Luke 11:28
Don’t just listen—apply it.