The terms below may be used throughout the Parable of Jesus Series. I have provided the terms here with their definitions for clarity.

1. Allegory: Some parables can be seen as allegorical, meaning the elements of the story correspond to specific spiritual truths or concepts. Help students differentiate between straightforward parables and allegorical ones.
2. Analogical: Relating to or based on analogy; a comparison between two things for purpose of explanation or clarification. (synonym – Simile)
3. Context: Throughout the teaching, emphasize the importance of understanding the cultural, historical, and religious context of Jesus’ time to fully grasp the parables’ meanings.
4. Didactic: Intended to teach or instruct, often in a moral or ethical sense.
5. Gospel: The term “Gospel” primarily refers to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the message of salvation as presented in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. The word “gospel” itself comes from the Old English “godspel,” which translates to “good news” or “good tidings.” In Christianity, the Gospels specifically refer to the four books in the New Testament—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—which provide accounts of the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
6. Harmony of the Gospel: A “Harmony of the Gospel” (also known as a Gospel Harmony or Gospel Synthesis) is a literary work that attempts to create a single narrative by combining the four Gospel accounts of Jesus’ life into one coherent and chronological story. Gospel harmonies aim to present a unified version of the events in the Gospels, highlighting the similarities and differences between the accounts provided by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. This format allows readers to compare and contrast the different perspectives and details presented by the Gospel writers.
7. Illustrative: Serving as an example or demonstration to clarify or explain a point.
8. Kingdom of God (Kingdom of Heaven): Many of Jesus’ parables revolve around the concept of the Kingdom of God, which refers to God’s rule and reign in the hearts of people and throughout the world. Explain that this kingdom isn’t just a physical place but a spiritual reality.
9. Metaphor: Parables often use metaphors, which are comparisons between two unlike things. Help students understand how metaphors enhance the meaning of the parables by linking the familiar (the story) with the unfamiliar (the lesson).
10. Parable: A parable is a short story or analogy that uses familiar situations, objects, or events to convey a deeper moral or spiritual lesson.
11. Riddle: A puzzling or enigmatic statement or question that requires though or reflection to understand.
12. Simile: A figure of speech involving the comparison of one thing with another “like” or “as.”
13. Storytelling: The art of conveying events, experiences, or information through a narrative.
14. Symbolism: Parables often include symbolic elements, where certain objects, characters, or actions represent deeper spiritual truths. Teach students how to identify and interpret symbolism in the parables.
15. Synoptic Gospels: The Synoptic Gospels refer to the first three books of the New Testament in the Christian Bible: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. These three Gospels are called “synoptic” because they share a significant amount of common material and follow a similar narrative structure when compared to the Gospel of John. The term “synoptic” comes from the Greek words “syn” (together) and “opsis” (view), meaning they offer a shared view or perspective on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke) are characterized by their shared content, narrative structure, and common source material, while the Gospel of John is distinct in its theological emphasis, unique content, and literary style.
16. Teaching Tool: A method or device used to impart knowledge or wisdom. Matthew 13:10-17 (Jesus explains that he uses parables to teach and reveal hidden truths to his disciples).