-Principles For Studying the Parables:

-While studying the parables, it is important to be mindful of some basic principles. 

-Look For the Main Point

-While many good lessons can be derived from the parables of Christ, we must

   remember that there is a particular, main point to each of the parables.   

-Jesus told the parable for a specific purpose – in order to make a particular point.

-Sometimes, I’m afraid we can’t see the forest (the overall, main point) because of the

  trees (the other lessons derived from the same parable). 

-There is nothing wrong with getting a number of lessons from one parable, but don’t

  forget to look for the main point.

-Context

-To help us understand the main point, it is very important for us to consider the

  surrounding context.

-What led to Jesus giving the parable?  What was taking place?  Who was involved? 

  What had been said or asked?, etc.

-Why did Jesus give the parable?  This will help us in determining the main point of the

  parable.

-Not Every Detail Has Special Representation

-Remember that parables are physical based stories that reflect spiritual truth. 

-Some of the details are part of the physical aspect of the story and may or may not have

  special representation.

-The degree of representation can vary from parable to parable.

-We need to be careful not to read to much into them.

-Example of symbolic language – Daniel 7:1-8, 17-24

          -In this passage in Daniel, we find a description of four beasts.

          -Various details are given in the descriptions of these beasts.

          -However, note the description that is given in vs 17 – “These great beasts, which

            are four, are four kings…”

                      -Notice that special representations are not assigned to each of the details –

            especially with the first three beasts.

                       -The details are merely given to help us get an idea / mental picture of the beasts.

                      -However, we do find that some representations are given to some of the details

            involved with the fourth beast.

-We would probably be tempted to attempt to apply special representation to all the

  details of each of the beast.  The passage itself does not.                   

-So, with the parables, we need to be careful not to read too much into them.

-Keeping these three basic principles in mind will help us in our studies of the parables.