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A parable is a story taken from real life (or a real-life…

“A parable is a story taken from real life (or a real-life situation) from which a moral or spiritual truth is drawn. Examples are many: the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32), the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9–14), the wedding banquet (Matt. 22:1–14; Luke…” quote by James Montgomery Boice
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““A parable is a story taken from real life (or a real-life situation) from which a moral or spiritual truth is drawn. Examples are many: the prodigal son (Luke 15:11–32), the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9–14), the wedding banquet (Matt. 22:1–14; Luke 14:15–24), the sheep and the goats (Matt. 25:31–46), and others, including the parables of the kingdom that will occupy our attention in this first set of studies. By my count there are about twenty-seven parables, though some are closely related and may simply be different versions of the same story.””

James Montgomery Boice

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Parables use familiar stories to illustrate deeper moral or spiritual lessons.

In simple terms: Stories teach moral truths.

Key Takeaway

Use relatable narratives to convey values.

Themes

teaching storytelling morality

Mood

thoughtful educational

Type

didactic philosophical

When to use this quote

  • religious education
  • public speaking
  • writing
  • parenting

Key Concepts

allegory didactic literature

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ensure a story’s lesson is accurate?
  • When might a parable mislead?
A Different Perspective

Stories may oversimplify complex issues.

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