What theological truths do parables convey?

[ParanoidAndroid]

In recent discussions, the question has come up as to whether a parable is written to answer only one theological issue or whether there are multiple theological issues that are raised within them. To quote the Sunday School response to a definition of a parable, we'd have to say "an earthly story with a heavenly meaning". Of course, parables are not always as simple as that. Sometimes Jesus explains his parables and at other times he does not.

But I just wanted to ask whether you can get more than one theological truth from a parable, or whether parables were written to convey only one key theological issue?

Thanks,

[elkieDannsa' Air An Drochaid]

First off I do not think it is an "either / or " as mentioned in your question about parables.

I think that parables are told or written so that the listener will come to the conclusions themselves, as opposed to just being told. The conclusions we come to are often much stronger than the ones we are simply told outright. ( led by the Holy Spirit in their heart of hearts and minds, contemplate upon the parables)

In Him

[EricH]

It depends on the parabel in question.

[ParanoidAndroid]

Thanks for the input, folks. I was just wondering whether it was possible for a parable to contain two separate and distinct theological truths. Sometimes it is easy to explain the parables (because Jesus told them). Other times it is not so easy. Particularly when you consider that the reason Jesus spoke in parables was in order that the crowds would not understand. The meaning of parables was for those who wanted to really get to know Jesus, not just those who came to hear a speech. But that's just muddying the waters a little there - I have always understood parables as being stories intended to convey one clear theological message. But it seems that some believe we can take multiple theological issues out of the one parable.