Earthly Stories with a Heavenly Meaning

Carlos Wallace quipped, “The funny thing about truth, everyone seems to have their own version.” Jesus said He was the truth (John 14:6), and that He always told the truth (John 8:45). But many who listened to Him had their own version of truth, so Jesus now begins a new way of teaching: the parable. As we read these parables, consider four characteristics of interacting with truth.

I. Truth Is a Priority (vv. 1-2)

II. Stories Bring Clarity (vv. 3-8)

III. Listening Is a Necessity (v. 9)

IV. Understanding Shows Sincerity (vv. 10-12)

Learn Your Bible: Read Isaiah 6:9-10 and compare it to today’s passage. What does Jesus’ use of parables teach us about how God responds to the posture of our hearts?

Love Your Neighbor: We’re instructed in 1 John 3:18 to love in “deed and truth.” How can you show love in action and truth to those in your circle this week?

Live in Freedom: Is there something holding you back from listening to and applying the truth of God’s Word? What practical step can you take this week to make truth a priority, listen more carefully, and respond with sincerity?