2. Figurative Language in the Bible

3. Types of figurative speech in the Bible
Parable:
A parable is a “short, pithy saying of truth.”
Truth is based on real or potentially real events
which may be social, political, or domestic
“Parable” may seem almost exclusive to Mt. – Jn.
The original word is also used in Heb. 9:9 (“figure”)

4. Types of figurative speech in the Bible
Parable:
Jesus was not the first to use “parables.”
We find “parables” several times in the OT:
Num. 23:7, 18; 24:3, 15, 20-21, 23; Job 27:1;
29:1; Ps. 49:4; 78:2; Prov. 26:7, 9; Isa. 14:4;
Ezek. 17:2; 24:3; Mic. 2:4; Hab. 2:6

5. Types of figurative speech in the Bible
Parable:
“Many truths” taught by parables (Mt. 13:3).
Jesus was asked why He did this (Mt. 13:10) Mt. 13:13: Therefore speak I to them in parables; because seeing they see not, and hearing they hear not, neither do they understand.

6. Types of figurative speech in the Bible
Parable:
A parable about a “sower” (Mt. 13:8f)
Power of God’s Word, understanding/not understanding the Word, the devil, joy, apostasy, persecution, tribulation, riches, cares of world, bearing spiritual fruit

7. Types of figurative speech in the Bible
Parable:
Mt. 13:24 – “another parable”
The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man that sowed good seed in his field: 25 but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares also among the wheat, and went away.
Col. 1:13

8. Types of figurative speech in the Bible
Parable:
Mt. 13:31 – “another parable”
Mt. 13:33 – “another parable”
Mt. 13:34 – “did not speak without parables”

9. Types of figurative speech in the Bible
Parable:
Mt. 13:35 – “I will open my mouth in parables; I will utter things hidden from the foundation of the world”