13:1-52 Third discourse: Jesus’ teaching in parables

13:1-52 Third discourse: Jesus’ teaching in parables
Chs. 11-12 have shown us a deep division among those who heard Jesus’ teaching and a wide variety of responses. The parables which make up the bulk of ch. 13 will now explain why the preaching of the word of God meets with such a mixed response, and will underline the radical nature of the choice it presents.

The discourse is carefully structured. First, there is the introductory parable of the sower (3-9). This is followed by an interlude focusing [p. 920] on the purpose of parables (10-17) and an explanation of the parable of the sower (18-23). Then there are three parables of growth: the weeds (24-30); the mustard seed (31-32); and the yeast in the dough (33). This is followed by another interlude, which deals with the purpose of parables (34-35) and an explanation of the parable of the weeds (36-43), and then three further parables: the treasure (44); the pearl (45-46); and the net (47-50). Finally, there is the concluding parable of the householder (51-52).

The section combines eight actual parables with explanations both of the purpose of parables in general and of two key parables in particular.

We tend to think of parables as illustrative stories, but the Greek word parabole is broader: it conveys also the sense of mysterious sayings which do not carry their meaning on the surface. A parable needs to be interpreted. Like a cartoon, it is in itself just a story or picture; the challenge is to penetrate through to its meaning. That is why the same parable, without explanation, can enlighten some and leave others unmoved. It is this theme which is explored especially in the crucial vs 10-17, where the enlightenment of the disciples and the blindness of the unresponsive crowds are contrasted.

Each of the parables is explicitly about the kingdom of heaven. They set out the demands and paradoxes of the new order Jesus had come to establish, and in relation to which people were reacting so differently.