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Biblical Hospitality: What the Bible Teaches about Welcoming Others

Replete with stories and teachings about welcoming others with open arms, demonstrating love, and building a sense of community, hospitality is a practice deeply rooted within the sacred pages of Scripture. Hospitality goes far beyond mere etiquette or social niceties, rather, it is a sweeping expression of love, kindness, and community. Hospitality invites us to mirror the heart of God by welcoming all, just as He does. To gain a greater appreciation for hospitality, today we will use the Bible as our guide as we unpack its pragmatic attributes and provide practical insights, empowering believers to put it into practice.   

Biblical Accounts of Hospitality

The following examples underscore that hospitality is not merely a cultural norm or an act of courtesy; it is a practice deeply embedded in our faith. As we open our hearts and homes to others, we position ourselves to receive blessings that extend far beyond the immediate moment, creating a ripple effect that pulsates throughout our lives and the lives of others.

Zacchaeus and Jesus (Luke 19:1-10): In the town of Jericho, a tax collector named Zacchaeus sought a glimpse of Jesus. Climbing a sycamore tree, he caught the attention of the Savior who not only noticed him but chose to dine at his house. In this simple act of hospitality, Zacchaeus experienced a radical transformation. He not only welcomed Jesus into his home but into his heart, prompting a declaration of repentance and a promise to make amends for any wrongs he had committed. The blessing of salvation and reconciliation flowed from a moment of genuine hospitality.

Philemon Welcomes Paul (Philemon 1:4-7): The letter to Philemon unfolds a story of hospitality that goes beyond the customary welcome of a guest. Philemon opened his home and heart to the apostle Paul, demonstrating a generosity that would become a hallmark of hospitality. The blessing that ensued was not only personal but extended to the entire community. Paul prayed for Philemon, expressing gratitude for his love and faith, and the blessings of encouragement and fellowship multiplied.

Lot's Hospitality in Sodom (Genesis 19): In the thick of the morally corrupt city of Sodom, Lot demonstrated hospitality by welcoming two angels into his home. Despite the impending doom of the city, Lot's hospitality led to divine intervention, sparing him and his family. The blessings extended beyond mere physical safety, emphasizing the penetrating impact of extending hospitality even in challenging circumstances.

Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17): During a severe famine, the widow of Zarephath welcomed the prophet Elijah into her home, sharing her last meal with him. In return for her hospitality, God blessed her with an ongoing supply of flour and oil, ensuring that her resources would not run dry. This poignant story showcases how God honors and multiplies the simple acts of hospitality, meeting both physical and spiritual needs.

Abraham's Hospitality (Genesis 18): Before we move on, we cannot overlook the iconic example set by Abraham in Genesis 18. Abraham had been sitting at his tent's entrance when three strangers approached. Without hesitation, Abraham leaped to his feet, bowed to the ground, and warmly invited them to rest and refresh themselves. Unbeknownst to Abraham, these visitors were none other than divine messengers. His immediate and gracious response to strangers did not go unnoticed by God. As the story unfolds, we see that his act of welcoming these strangers brought unimaginable blessings. Among them was the promise of a son to Sarah, a miraculous fulfillment of God's covenant. 

Jesus Teaches Us to Embracing the Stranger

Emphasizing the intimate connection between hospitality and our service to Him, in Matthew 25:35, Jesus says: "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in." Christ’s teachings about hospitality reinforce the need for love, compassion, humility, and inclusivity in our interactions with others. Let’s take a look at a few of them now. 

Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37): Jesus tells a story about a compassionate Samaritan who extends hospitality to a wounded stranger, emphasizing the principle of loving our neighbors and showing mercy.

Feeding the Five Thousand (Matthew 14:13-21): Jesus performs a miracle by multiplying five loaves and two fish to feed a large crowd. This event underscores the importance of providing for the physical needs of others and demonstrates extravagant generosity.

Washing the Disciples' Feet (John 13:1-17): Jesus models servant leadership by washing the feet of His disciples. This act underscores the importance of humility and serving others, setting an example for discipleship through acts of kindness and hospitality.

Inviting the Little Children (Matthew 19:13-15): Jesus welcomes children, highlighting the significance of treating everyone, regardless of age or status, with kindness and hospitality. His actions challenge societal norms and emphasize the value of inclusivity.

Eating with Sinners (Mark 2:15-17): Jesus dines with tax collectors and sinners, challenging the cultural norms of His time. His actions convey the message that everyone is worthy of God's love and hospitality, regardless of their past.

Encouraging a Generous Banquet (Luke 14:12-14): Jesus advises hosts to invite the poor, crippled, lame, and blind to their feasts, promoting the idea that true hospitality extends to those who cannot repay the favor. He encourages a selfless and inclusive approach to hosting.

Sending Out the Seventy-Two (Luke 10:1-12): Jesus instructs the seventy-two disciples to enter homes with peace, partake of what is offered, and bring healing. This mission reinforces the idea of relying on the hospitality of others and reciprocating with goodwill.

Practical Tips for Practicing Biblical Hospitality

The examples of hospitality found in the Bible are more than a one-time event, instead, they exemplify adopting hospitality as a lifestyle. We’ve put together some simple, yet constructive tips to incorporate into your daily routine that aid in creating an environment where love and community thrive. 

Open Your Home: Create a welcoming space where others feel comfortable and valued.

Share a Meal: Food has a unique way of bringing people together. Consider hosting potlucks or inviting someone over for dinner.

Listen and Engage: Take time to genuinely connect with others, listening to their stories and offering support.

Be Attentive to Needs: Pay attention to the needs of those around you, whether it be a kind word, a helping hand, or a shoulder to lean on.

Extend Hospitality Beyond Your Home: Look for opportunities to welcome newcomers in your community, church, or workplace.

Serve with Joy: Approach the act of serving others with joy. A cheerful heart in serving reflects the love of Christ and enhances the overall experience for both you and the other party.

Practice Humility: Approach hospitality with humility and recognize that you are a steward of the resources and space you've been given.

Practice Prayerful Hospitality: In everyday encounters, make it a practice to lift the needs, concerns, and joys of those around you to God. 

Embrace Hospitality as an Expression of Love 

Hospitality is not merely a social courtesy but a powerful expression of love that builds bridges, enriches connections and upholds inclusion. Take time to reflect on the warmth of Abraham's tent, the transformation in Zacchaeus' home, the generosity of Philemon, and the widow’s simple, yet powerful kindness. Let these stories not merely be tales of old but wellsprings of wisdom for today, and consider how you can apply these lessons in your interactions with others. Strive to make hospitality a real, everyday part of your life, one that reflects the love and fellowship found within revered pages of the Bible.

- Torrance Church of Christ

 

Bible Verses for all that the Spring Season Encompasses

As the warmth sets out to defrost the earth, the birds begin to grace us with their merry songs, the fauna brings about new life, and the vegetation begins to sprout. Restlessness dissolves into a newfound sense of energy as humankind starts to venture outside to delight in the rebirth that springtime initiates. Cheerful laughter fills the air as families gather at parks, and the sidewalks begin to fill with brightly colored masterpieces; chalky residue smear tiny fingertips. Bees buzz diligently about, and soft breezes whirl and carry off fallen seeds of trees; gently transporting them to their new homes where they will settle and flourish. Brilliant colors paint the hillside as fragrant flowers bud and blossom, while the nooks and crevices at home are spritzed and wiped down; the dust bunnies cleared away. Old clothes get sorted and donated to those who have more use for them, and winter attire is neatly packed away. The serene murmur of rivers is heard as they reawaken from their icy confinement. Twigs and grass are collected as hopeful avians build their nests for their eggs. Spring marks the end of hibernation, the beasts wake from their restful slumber, and the heat of the sun fills life with zeal and excitement. Soft giggles echo through the atmosphere while toddlers run and splash through puddles, triumphant applause roars as colorful kites soar across the sky, and iridescent bubbles float freely away as they depart the loop of a plastic wand. Butterflies flitter garden to garden alongside the cherry red ladybugs that casually stroll among the greenery. Rosy cheeks balloon before the exhale of breath is vigorously released, prompting the tiny white seeds of dandelions to dance around the man-made zephyr, while the culprit gleefully makes a wish. Red checkered blankets are laid across freshly trimmed grass as couples leisurely slow down and bask in one another’s company; holding hands and sharing their aspirations with one another, as wispy clouds lazily saunter above. 

As Christians, we know spring represents more than the pleasant sound of leaves rustling in the breeze, a feeling far more prominent than the welcomed touch of the sun kissing our skin. Spring signifies a deeper and greater appreciation for new life, transformation, rebirth, renewal, growth, new beginnings, hope, restorations, promises, progress, and cleansing. Spring symbolizes God’s promise of eternal life. It is a reminder of Christ's love and sacrifice. It is the time to rejuvenate our spiritual health. It’s the time to start anew. 

That is why we have collected scriptures from the Bible that capture the remarkable beauty and transformation of the season. The verses will encourage the spiritual meaning that embodies springtime. 

Bible Verses for Springtime

So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable;  it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44

See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come, the cooing of doves is heard in our land. The fig tree forms its early fruit; the blossoming vines spread their fragrance. Arise, come, my darling; my beautiful one, come with me. Songs of Songs 2:11-13

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! 2 Corinthians 5:17

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out my Spirit on your offspring, and my blessing on your descendants. They will spring up like grass in a meadow, like poplar trees by flowing streams. Isaiah 44:3-4

He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:5

When a king’s face brightens, it means life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring. Proverbs 16:15

Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants. Deuteronomy 32:2

The desert and the parched land will be glad; the wilderness will rejoice and blossom.
Like the crocus, it will burst into bloom; it will rejoice greatly and shout for joy. The glory of Lebanon will be given to it, the splendor of Carmel and Sharon; they will see the glory of the Lord, the splendor of our God. Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you. Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert. The burning sand will become a pool, the thirsty ground bubbling springs. In the haunts where jackals once lay, grass and reeds and papyrus will grow. And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk on that Way. The unclean will not journey on it; wicked fools will not go about on it. No lion will be there, nor any ravenous beast; they will not be found there. But only the redeemed will walk there, and those the Lord has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away. Isaiah 35:1-10

Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit. John 3:6

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:

a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

Restore us to yourself, Lord, that we may return; renew our days as of old. Lamentations 5:21

Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Colossians 3:9-10

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth:

It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. Instead of the thornbush will grow the juniper, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the Lord’s renown, for an everlasting sign,  that will endure forever. Isaiah 55:10-13

I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. Ezekiel 36:25-26

Praise the Lord, my soul,  and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s. Psalm 103:2-5

For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. 1 Corinthians 15:22

Do not be afraid, you wild animals, for the pastures in the wilderness are becoming green. The trees are bearing their fruit; the fig tree and the vine yield their riches. Be glad, people of Zion, rejoice in the Lord your God, for he has given you the autumn rains because he is faithful. He sends you abundant showers, both autumn and spring rains, as before. The threshing floors will be filled with grain; the vats will overflow with new wine and oil. Joel 2:22-24

We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin— because anyone who has died has been set free from sin. Romans 6:4-7

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. James 5:7

Let us acknowledge the Lord; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth. Hosea 6:3

Yet you sweep people away in the sleep of death— they are like the new grass of the morning. Psalm 90:5

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:22-24

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. Psalm 51:10-12

A voice says, “Cry out.” And I said, “What shall I cry?” “All people are like grass, and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them. Surely the people are grass. The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” Isaiah 40:6-8

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” John 3:3

The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. Psalm 19:7

For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. 1 Peter 1:23

That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. Psalm 1:3

Ask the Lord for rain in the springtime; it is the Lord who sends the thunderstorms. He gives showers of rain to all people, and plants of the field to everyone. Zechariah 10:1

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, or his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22-23

For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign Lord will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations. Isaiah 61:11

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16

When you send your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground. Psalm 104:30

So if you faithfully obey the commands I am giving you today—to love the Lord your God and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul—then I will send rain on your land in its season, both autumn and spring rains, so that you may gather in your grain, new wine and olive oil. Deuteronomy 11:13-14

All Things Considered

He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” Revelation 21:5

Christ assures us that He will make everything new. This includes those eager and willing to listen and live by His teachings. It is through Him that we will be restored!

-Torrance Church of Christ

The Parables of Jesus

What are Parables?

Parables are short stories that serve to illustrate profound moral messages and truths. 

Through evocative imagery, Jesus was able to convey impactful lessons and wisdom concerning the commitment of discipleship, the essence of Heaven, and the extent of God’s grace and severity, alongside other pertinent instructions.

Why did Jesus Teach in Parables?

At the time, only religious leaders and the scholarly were privileged to read and sermonize on God’s Word. Largely, the religious teachings took the form of lectures and grossly authorized misunderstanding and error. Jesus’s parables changed that dynamic. 

Jesus employed parables as an easy-to-understand and relatable method to convey His teachings to those who would listen and accept His doctrine. (Accept is a keyword.) This opened the gate for people from all walks of life to have access to His teachings.

His parables were unlike previous instructions. Not only were they rendered in a simpler format, but they were able to captivate and engage the audience. Those who listened and sought to understand enlisted their imagination. 

His parables provide applicable examples for His disciples on how to live their lives in accordance with His covenants. Those engrossed by His words were able to connect their personal experiences with His teachings. 

His parables are communicated in a way that allows His message to be conveniently circulated throughout different cultures, languages, and generations. 

Keyword: Accept

The following scriptures provide a deeper comprehension as to why Jesus taught with parables. 

The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?” He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. This is why I speak to them in parables:

“Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah:

“‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise, they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.’” But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it.

Matthew 13:10-17

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When he was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables.  He told them, “The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that,

“‘they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding;
otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!’”

Mark 4:10-12

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His disciples asked him what this parable meant. He said, “The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others, I speak in parables, so that,

“‘though seeing, they may not see; though hearing, they may not understand.’”

Luke 8:9-10

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The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel:

for gaining wisdom and instruction; for understanding words of insight; for receiving instruction in prudent behavior, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to those who are simple, knowledge and discretion to the young- let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance-for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Proverbs 1:1-7

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Jesus often taught to crowds of people. He didn’t discriminate against anyone- people from all walks of life were welcome to hear His messages. However, only His true followers were privy to accurately discern the meanings of His parables. Those who rejected Him remained perplexed and incapable of solving the riddle.

Tips and Tricks for Decoding Parables

• Identify the purpose- strive to discern the purpose behind the parable. Why does Jesus want us to know this information?
• Establish a complete understanding of the context- the context surrounding the parable grants a full picture and account of Jesus’s teachings. 
• Keep in mind the cultural differences between then and now- some customs, syntax, and metaphors in the parables may not be considered common knowledge by today’s standards. 
• Define the central basis- the majority of the parables have one central point. All of the details originate from this point. 
• Be sure to avoid adding emphasis on small details- sometimes small details are just that, small details. They don’t always supplement the meaning or purpose. 
• Acquire a basic knowledge of common figures and forms used throughout the Bible- there are various depictions used within the Bible to describe words or themes. An example of this is the word ‘sheep’ which refers to God’s followers. 
• Take considerable note of the ending- this is where the crucial revelations are unveiled. 

The Parables 

***Below, we’ve categorized the parables. Because of this, you may notice some of the parables are listed more than once. Several of the parables don’t fit into just a single category. ***

Parables About the Kingdom of God

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The Parable of the Growing Seed

Passage: Mark 4:26–29

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake. 

Message: Good and evil are always growing. Be wary of your choices and actions. Faith can only grow with the help of God. 

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The Parable of the Great Banquet

Passage: Luke 14:15–24

Setting: Jesus is dining at the Pharisee’s house. He is sitting at a table with other dinner guests. 

Message: The Kingdom of Heaven is a gift. Make Him a priority and do what must be done in order to join Him. 

READ MORE! Read about the banquet parables here.

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The Parable of the Wedding Banquet

Passage: Matthew 22:1–14

Setting: Jesus is speaking with a large crowd congregating outside of the temple. The priests are questioning Jesus’s authority. 

Message: Everyone is invited to join God in His Kingdom, but only the obedient will be included. 

READ MORE! Read about the banquet parables here.

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The Parable of the Leaven

Passage: Matthew 13:33, Luke 13:20–21

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake.

Message: God’s Word will change the hearts of those willing to accept it. This change will bring on the transformation of God’s Kingdom. 

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The Parable of the Net

Passage: Matthew 13:47–50

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake.

Message: True followers of the Lord will be separated from the wicked. The wicked will not be permitted entrance into God’s Eternal Kingdom. 

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The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl

Passage: Matthew 13:44–46

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake.

Message: The Kingdom of God is of significant value. It is worth giving up mortal possessions and desires for. 

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The Parable of the Mustard Seed

Passage: Matthew 13:31–32, Mark 4:30–32, Luke 13:18–19

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake. 

Message: The Kingdom of God is magnificent. 

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The Parable of the Weeds and the Wheat

Passage: Matthew 13:24–30, Matthew 13:36–43

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake.

Message: Evil grows among good. Be careful and steadfast, and stay close to the Lord. 

Learn more! Read “Messages Embedded Within The Parable of The Weeds and The Wheat.”

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The Parable of the Sower

Passage: Matthew 13:3–23, Mark 4:3–20, Luke 8:5–15

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake. 

Message: Everybody receives God’s teachings, but the teachings will fall upon those who are unwilling to understand. 

Read More! Read The Parable about Parables Here!

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The Parable of the Homeowner

Passage: Matthew 13:52

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake.

Message: True disciples of Christ are trained leaders and examples who are able to accurately interpret the Word of God. 

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The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats

Passage: Matthew 25:31–46

Setting: Jesus is warning His disciples about the end of days. 

Message: Be generous and take on any opportunity to serve others. 

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Parables About Love and Forgiveness

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The Parable of the Good Samaritan

Passage: Luke 10:30–37

Setting: An expert in the law asked Jesus how he could inherit eternal life. Jesus responded but the man further inquired and asked Jesus who counts as a “neighbor” that he is supposed to love. 

Message: We are commanded to love everyone, despite transgressions and feelings others may be harboring. 

Learn More! Read More about The Good Samaritan

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The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant

Passage: Matthew 18:21–35

Setting: Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive someone. 

Message: We must always forgive those who have done wrong against us. 

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The Parable of the Moneylender

Passage: Luke 7:40–43

Setting: A sinner uses her hair, tears, and perfume to anoint Jesus’s feet. Jesus was questioned as to why He would allow a sinner such as her to touch Him. 

Message: God shows mercy to those seeking redemption. 

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Parables About Loss and Redemption

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The Parable of the Prodigal Son

Passage: Luke 15:11–32

Setting: Jesus is teaching a crowd of tax collectors, Pharisees, and sinners. The crowd of people were muttering and spiteful. 

Message: If we seek it, God is always willing to forgive and blanket us in His Grace. 

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The Parable of the Lost Coin

Passage: Luke 15:8–10

Setting: Jesus is teaching a crowd of tax collectors, Pharisees, and sinners. The crowd of people were muttering and spiteful. 

Message: God rejoices over all who repent and come back among the fold. 

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The Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Parable of the Wandering Sheep

Passage: Matthew 18:12–14, Luke 15:1–7 

Setting: Although the message in these parables is similar, the circumstances differ. In the Parable of the Wandering Sheep, Jesus is speaking with His disciples. They ask Jesus who is the greatest in Heaven. In the Parable of the Lost Sheep, Jesus is teaching a crowd of tax collectors, Pharisees, and sinners. The crowd of people were muttering and spiteful. 

Message: God’s Grace and love do not discriminate. 

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The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard

Passage: Matthew 20:1–16

Setting: Jesus is teaching to a crowd in Judea. 

Message: God is right and just in blessing those who followed His Word for years or for a week as he sees fit. 

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Parables About The End Times

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The Parable of the Returning Owner

Passage: Matthew 24:45-51, Mark 13:34–37, Luke 12:35-38, Luke 12:42–48

Setting: Jesus warns His disciples about the end of days. 

Message: Always be watchful, for you do not know when Christ will return. 

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The Parable of the Thief in the Night

Passage: Matthew 24:42-44

Setting: Jesus warns His disciples about the end of days.

Message: Prepare yourself for Christ’s return. Continue to be watchful.  

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The Parable of the Ten Virgins

Passage: Matthew 25:1–13

Setting: Jesus warns His disciples about the end of days. 

Message: Prepare yourself for Christ’s return. 

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The Parable of the Great Banquet

Passage: Luke 14:15–24

Setting: Jesus is dining at the Pharisee’s house. He is sitting at a table with other dinner guests. 

Message: The Kingdom of Heaven is a gift. Make Him a priority and do what must be done in order to join Him. 

READ MORE! Read about the banquet parables here.

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The Parable of the Wedding Banquet

Passage: Matthew 22:1–14

Setting: Jesus is speaking with a large crowd congregating outside of the temple. The priests are questioning Jesus’s authority. 

Message: Everyone is invited to join God in His Kingdom, but only the obedient will be included. 

READ MORE! Read about the banquet parables here.

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The Parable of the Rich Fool

Passage: Luke 12:16–21

Setting: Jesus is speaking with a large crowd. 

Message: Material earthly greed is counterproductive to achieving eternal wealth. 

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The Parable of the Tenants

Passage: Matthew 21:33–46, Mark 12:1–12, Luke 20:9–19

Setting: Jesus is speaking with a large crowd congregating outside of the temple. The priests are questioning Jesus’s authority. 

Message: God’s Kingdom is reserved for those who are pure in heart and true followers of Him. 

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The Parable of the Net

Passage: Matthew 13:47–50

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake.

Message: True followers of the Lord will be separated from the wicked. The wicked will not be permitted entrance into God’s Eternal Kingdom. 

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The Parable of the Weeds and the Wheat

Passage: Matthew 13:24–30, Matthew 13:36–43

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake.

Message: Evil grows among good. Be careful and steadfast, and stay close to the Lord. 

Learn more! Read “Messages Embedded Within The Parable of The Weeds and The Wheat.”

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The Parable of the Budding Fig Tree

Passage: Matthew 24:32–35, Mark 13:28–31, Luke 21:29–33

Setting: Jesus is warning His disciples about the end of days. 

Message: Jesus reveals the signs of the end. 

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The Parable of the Unfruitful Fig Tree

Passage: Luke 13:6–9

Setting: A crowd has gathered and members of the crowd informed Jesus about the misfortune that fell upon some Galileans. The individuals in the crowd implied that the Galileans met their fate as a form of judgment. 

Message: We need to act fast and repent of our sins. 

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The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats

Passage: Matthew 25:31–46

Setting: Jesus warns His disciples about the end of days. 

Message: Be generous and take on any opportunity to serve others. 

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The Parable of the Two Sons

Passage: Matthew 21:28–32

Setting: Jesus is speaking with a large crowd congregating outside of the temple. The priests are questioning Jesus’s authority. 

Message: It is imperative that our words are aligned with our actions. God is all-knowing. 

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The Parable of the Talents/Minas and The Parable of the Bags of Gold

Passage: Matthew 25:14–30, Luke 19:12–27

Setting: Jesus is warning His disciples about the end of days. 

Message: Utilize and grow the gifts God has provided you. Minister to others with the resources that have been graciously bestowed upon you.

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Parables About Prayer

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The Parable of the Friend at Night

Passage: Luke 11:5–10

Setting: Jesus’s disciples ask Him to teach them how to pray. 

Message: God hears and answers our prayers. 

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The Parable of the Persistent Widow

Passage: Luke 18:2–8

Setting: Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of consistency in prayer. 

Message: Be consistent and unyielding in prayer. 

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The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

Passage: Luke 18:9–14

Setting: Jesus warns those who are arrogant. 

Message: Humble yourself in your heart, before others,  and before the Lord. 

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Parables About the New Covenant 

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The Parables of New Cloth and New Wineskins

Passage: Matthew 9:16–17, Mark 2:21–22, Luke 5:36–38

Setting: Jesus is speaking to John the Baptist's disciples. They ask Jesus why the  Pharisees fast but He and His disciples do not. 

Message: There are notable differences between the New Covenant and the Old Covenant. 

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The Parable of the Homeowner

Passage: Matthew 13:52

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake.

Message: True disciples of Christ are trained leaders and examples who are able to accurately interpret the Word of God. 

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Parables About Generosity

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The Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus

Passage: Luke 16:19–31

Setting: Jesus is speaking to his disciples. Nearby Pharisees overhear and mock Jesus. 

Message: Mortal wealth and greed does not earn you a place in Heaven. 

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The Parable of the Shrewd Manager

Passage: Luke 16:1–9

Setting: Jesus is speaking to his disciples. Nearby Pharisees overhear and mock Jesus. 

Message: Live your life in stewardship and generosity.

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The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats

Passage: Matthew 25:31–46

Setting: Jesus is warning His disciples about the end of days. 

Message: Be generous and take on any opportunity to serve others. 

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The Parable of the Luncheon for the Poor

Passage: Luke 14:12-14

Setting: Jesus is dining at the Pharisee’s house. He is sitting at a table with other dinner guests. 

Message: Treat and serve those who are facing challenges and going without. 

READ MORE! Read about the banquet parables here.

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Parables About Faith 

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The Parable of the Lamp Stand/ The Parable of the Lamp of the Body

Passage: Matthew 5:14–16, Mark 4:21–25, Luke 8:16-18, Luke 11:33-36

Setting: Jesus is teaching a large crowd by a lake. 

Message: Do not keep your light (faith) hidden. Share it. Those who possess a willingness to understand will be enlightened. 

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The Parable of Counting the Cost

Passage: Luke 14:28–33

Setting: Jesus is walking with a large crowd and speaking with them. 

Message: Jesus emphasizes the requirement to be a true disciple. 

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The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builders

Passage: Matthew 7:24–27, Luke 6:47–49

Setting: Jesus is speaking with a large crowd during the sermon on the mount. 

Message: Build your foundation upon His words and teachings. 

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The Parable of the Talents/Minas and The Parable of the Bags of Gold

Passage: Matthew 25:14–30, Luke 19:12–27

Setting: Jesus is warning His disciples about the end of days. 

Message: Utilize and grow the gifts God has provided you. Minister to others with the resources that have been graciously bestowed upon you.

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The Parable of the Two Sons

Passage: Matthew 21:28–32

Setting: Jesus is speaking with a large crowd congregating outside of the temple. The priests are questioning Jesus’s authority. 

Message: It is imperative that our words are aligned with our actions. God is all-knowing. 

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Parables About Humility

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The Parable of the Embarrassed Guest

Passage: Luke 14:7–11

Setting: Jesus is dining at the Pharisee’s house. He is sitting at a table with other dinner guests. 

Message: Be humble. Always. 

READ MORE! Read about the banquet parables here.

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The Parable of the Master and the Servant

Passage: Luke 17:7–10

Setting: Jesus is speaking to his disciples. His apostles asked Him to increase their faith. His response was to share the parable. 

Message: God provides us with everything. He owes us nothing. By obeying Him, we are simply doing what is required of us and shouldn’t expect anything in return. 

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In Closing

Jesus used parables to convey vital messages and details about His Gospel. By presenting His truth by route of parables, listeners were able to absorb His teachings by being actively engaged through their imagination and familiarity. However, the significance of His parables was lost to those whose hearts were not in the right place. This opened the door to separate the wheat from the weeds, so to speak. 

Although they were told long ago, the eternal truths enclosed within each parable are relevant to our lives today. The parables are another source you can turn to and study to further evolve your knowledge and faith. 

-Torrance Church of Christ