Surprised by the Parables: Growing in Grace through the Stories of Jesus

by Michelle Lee-Barnewall

Jesus' parables can't simply be interpreted--they must be experienced.In the Gospels, Jesus used parables to teach transformative lessons and convey deep spiritual truths about the kingdom of God. But he often used them to confront and challenge his audience as well, forcing his listeners to open or close their hearts to the kingdom.Jesus understood the power of stories, but we lose things in translation when we try to interpret those same stories thousands of years removed from their original context. The unexpected twists and surprises in the parables might be missed by a modern audience because we're unfamiliar with the underlying points of reference.In Surprised by the Parables, Michelle Lee-Barnewall explores the ancient context for Jesus' parables. These stories of grace reveal mysteries central to God's character, and understanding the ancient world behind them will help us see the parables from a new perspective.

138 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 22, 2020

Reviews

[Wren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been reading more scholarly approaches to the Bible, but it was refreshing to read a discussion of the parables that was more approachable. I was able to read this in one sitting, but I do see that there is value to reading mor slowly to grant opportunity to meditation and ponder upon the principles discussed.

Lee-Barnwell discusses ten parables among the 46 found in the gospels. She focuses on what action people should take and highlights the doctrine of grace. She starts each chapter with a parable, discusses it (with some personal narratives interspersed with a basic exegesis), reviews her main points with a numbered list, and offers study questions. This would be a good guide for sermons, Sunday school lessons, or personal study.

Here are the parables she discusses.

Lost Sheep
Lost Coin
Prodigal Son
Workers in the Vineyard
Two Debtors
Good Samaritan
Unforgiving Servant
Friend at Midnight
Talents
Sower

[Mandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some over opinionated and limited or incorrect interpretations, but some good insights.

[Greg · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellence explanation of parables

Helped me truly understand the parables and how they can help you grow in your walk the Lord
Highly recommend

[Elizabeth ‘Andy’ Terrall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This little book has some helpful reflections and synthesizes theological and historical comments in a concise way. It is a nice, easy read.

[Kelly Dunn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was not what I had hoped for. No significant commentary of scriptures