Parables of Jesus

Jesus taught in parables — simple stories with deep spiritual meanings. He used everyday images (seeds, sheep, coins, banquets) to reveal truths about God's kingdom. Here are 26 of His most important parables.

The Sower

Matthew 13:3-23

How we receive God's Word determines the fruit in our lives.

The Wheat and the Tares

Matthew 13:24-30

Good and evil coexist until judgment day; patience is required.

The Mustard Seed

Matthew 13:31-32

The kingdom of God starts small but grows beyond all expectations.

The Leaven

Matthew 13:33

God's kingdom permeates and transforms everything it touches.

The Hidden Treasure

Matthew 13:44

The kingdom is so valuable that it's worth giving up everything for.

The Pearl of Great Price

Matthew 13:45-46

True treasure is found in God's kingdom, not earthly possessions.

The Net

Matthew 13:47-50

Final judgment will separate the righteous from the wicked.

The Unforgiving Servant

Matthew 18:23-35

Those who receive mercy must give mercy to others.

The Workers in the Vineyard

Matthew 20:1-16

God's grace isn't earned by effort — it's given freely and generously.

The Two Sons

Matthew 21:28-32

Actions speak louder than words. Obedience matters more than promises.

The Wicked Tenants

Matthew 21:33-44

Rejecting God's messengers leads to judgment.

The Wedding Banquet

Matthew 22:1-14

God's invitation is open to all, but we must respond appropriately.

The Ten Virgins

Matthew 25:1-13

Be prepared for Christ's return — readiness can't be borrowed.

The Talents

Matthew 25:14-30

Use what God has given you faithfully. Burying your gifts leads to loss.

The Sheep and Goats

Matthew 25:31-46

How we treat the vulnerable is how we treat Christ Himself.

The Growing Seed

Mark 4:26-29

God's kingdom grows mysteriously, beyond our control or understanding.

The Good Samaritan

Luke 10:25-37

Your neighbor is anyone in need, regardless of their background.

The Rich Fool

Luke 12:16-21

Storing up earthly wealth while ignoring God is the ultimate foolishness.

The Barren Fig Tree

Luke 13:6-9

God is patient, but fruitlessness has consequences.

The Lost Sheep

Luke 15:3-7

God pursues every lost person with relentless love.

The Lost Coin

Luke 15:8-10

Every single person matters to God — He searches until He finds them.

The Prodigal Son

Luke 15:11-32

God's love welcomes the repentant sinner home with open arms and a feast.

The Shrewd Manager

Luke 16:1-13

Use worldly resources wisely for eternal purposes.

The Rich Man and Lazarus

Luke 16:19-31

Earthly wealth means nothing in eternity. Care for the poor now.

The Persistent Widow

Luke 18:1-8

Never give up in prayer. God honors persistence.

The Pharisee and Tax Collector

Luke 18:9-14

Humble repentance, not proud religiosity, finds God's favor.