The Parables of Jesus

Reflect

Jesus told at least 40 stories called parables to help people understand what the kingdom of heaven is really like. These stories used imagination to teach big ideas. But what is the kingdom of heaven? It’s the place where Jesus is king and where we can live with God. In God’s kingdom, the most important people are kind, humble, and full of mercy.

How amazing is the kingdom of heaven? Jesus said it’s so special that it’s worth giving up everything to be part of it. It’s like a treasure! And the best part is—Jesus invites us all to be part of it.

Now think about this: how can you help make the world more like the kingdom of heaven? How can you listen to God and bring his goodness wherever you go? When you use your imagination and think about God’s kingdom, it helps you live more like Jesus. You can shine his light, and other people will see God through the way you live.

Read some of the parables in Mark 4 and Matthew 13. Want to dig deeper and learn some more parables? Check out Matthew 20:1-16; Luke 10:25-37; Luke 14:15-24; Luke 15:3-32 

Challenge

When Jesus told parables, he sometimes started by saying, “The Kingdom of Heaven is…” and then compared it to something. What do you compare God’s kingdom to?

Here are some starter ideas. They might give you an idea, or you can make up your own.

1. The kingdom of heaven is like the Olympics, because…
2. The kingdom of heaven is like a tall tree, because…
3. The kingdom of heaven is like a construction site, because…
4. The kingdom of heaven is like a sunset beach, because…
5. The kingdom of heaven is like a family reunion, because