By Dr. William H. Marty
People like stories and parables are stories. But some stories have a deeper meaning than what one might first think. Even Jesus's own disciples needed help with discovering the deeper meaning behind Jesus's words. Fascinating Bible Studies on Every Parable offers today's reader guidance in understanding the meaning of the parables of the Bible.
What I found interesting is this book doesn't just look at the New Testament parables of Jesus but also two parables from the Old Testament. Parables are and were methods used to teach important truths. But Jesus used His parables to teach about His kingdom - a kingdom that was to come. What Jesus taught was a concept that was unfamiliar to the people of His day and He needed to explain it to them in a way that they could grasp. Even today we need this explanation to help us understand the Kingdom that is to come.
Fascinating Bible Studies on Every Parable doesn't relay the parable and then state this is what it means. Rather it explains the setting (historically) and summarizes the parable. Then there is a section that helps the reader to reflect on what they just read and come to their own understanding. To truly understand something one needs to work through the information on their own (or in a group) and this book offers the tools to do this. This is an excellent resource for any believer (or seeker) who is reading and studying the Bible.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.
About the Book:
A Change of Pace for Your Bible Study
Jesus knew the power of stories to touch people's hearts, so he used parables to teach his followers about the kingdom of God. If you want to know God better, the parables are a great place to start.
This book provides short studies on every parable in the Bible. You'll learn what God wants us to know from the prodigal son, the good Samaritan, the lost sheep, the talents, the sower, and many more.
Each study includes a summary of the parable, the Scripture reference where it can be found, information on the historical and cultural setting, and key points. At the end of each study are questions that open the door to discussion, reflection, or further investigation, and help you get to the heart of the parable.
A wonderful tool for small groups or to add variety to your personal devotions. Let these studies draw you nearer to God as they enhance your understanding of his Word.
Dr. William H. Marty taught at Moody Bible Institute for thirty-seven years. His main emphasis was teaching an Old and New Testament survey to freshmen at the Chicago campus, and the fruit of his focus on teaching the storyline of the Bible was published in The Whole Bible Story. Dr. Marty has also written The World of Jesus and The Jesus Story and coauthored A Quick-Start Guide to the Whole Bible. He lives in Colorado with his wife, Linda, and is an active triathlete.
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