Jesus' favorite parables were the good Samaritan and the prodigal son, which he often retold to teach about the love of the Father and the neighborliness of man. [1] Jesus seldom taught masses except by speaking in parables. [2] Jesus sometimes would not comment on the meanings of certain parables, urging individuals to seek understanding within their own souls. [3]
Simon Peter took charge and recited the parable of Dives and Lazarus to the noisy crowd, urging them to heed its warning about the dangers of loving riches. [4] Of all the discourses the Master gave, the parable of the ten virgins by Selta on the Mount of Olives was the most confusing for his apostles. [5]
Jesus resorted to parables and symbols to prevent successors from crystallizing and dogmatizing his spiritual teachings. [6]
The mysteries of the kingdom shall be presented in parables so that those who truly desire salvation may discern the teachings, while those seeking destruction will be confounded. [7] Parables appeal to vastly different levels of mind and spirit, promoting sympathy without stirring up hostility. [8]
Jesus taught through true stories, not allegories, to illustrate one central truth, discouraging the confusion and misconception that arise from attempting to spiritualize all the minor details of a parable. [9]