Parables and Purpose
What does the word parable literally mean?
“To lay beside” or “to compare alongside.”
In the parable of the sower, what does the seed represent?
The Word of God.
What kind of kingdom did Jesus announce?
A spiritual kingdom in the heart, not a political one.
Who accused Jesus of working with demons?
The religious leaders (Pharisees and scribes).
What does the lamp represent in Mark 4:21-25?
The light of God’s truth shared by believers.
Why did Jesus teach in parables?
To reveal truth to believers and conceal it from unbelievers.
What does the hard path symbolize?
A heart hardened by sin and stolen from by Satan.
How did the Jews misunderstand the Messiah’s mission?
They expected a political deliverer from Rome.
Why did many people reject Jesus even after hearing Him?
Fear of man and unwillingness to pay the cost of discipleship.
What happens if a lamp is covered?
It gives no light and is useless.
About how many times does the word parable appear in the Septuagint?
≈ 45 times.
What does the shallow soil represent?
An emotional hearer who falls away under trial.
Why is the parable of the growing seed so hopeful?
Because God alone causes the seed to grow automatically.
Which Old Testament verses foretold the Messiah’s suffering?
Psalm 22; Isaiah 52–53; Zechariah 12:10.
What warning does Jesus give about hearing God’s Word?
“Take heed what you hear” and “how you hear.”
Which four parables appear in Mark 4?
The Sower, Lamp, Growing Seed, and Mustard Seed.
What chokes the Word in the crowded heart?
Cares of the world, deceit of riches, and desires for things.
What does the harvest symbolize in Mark 4:29?
The final judgment and completion of God’s plan.
Who did Jesus call His spiritual family?
Those who do the will of God by believing in Him.
What is the Greek word for “automatically” in Mark 4:28?
Automatos – meaning the seed grows by itself.
What does each parable in Mark 4 teach about the Kingdom of God?
It grows quietly and internally in believers’ hearts and will culminate gloriously at Christ’s return.
What is the fruitful heart’s evidence of true salvation?
Spiritual fruit and a changed life.
What lesson does the mustard seed teach about the Kingdom?
It begins small but grows into something great and global.
What three enemies oppose fruitful faith according to Mark 4?
The world, the flesh, and the Devil.
How does the mustard plant’s “birds in its branches” symbolize God’s plan?
It shows Gentile nations finding blessing and refuge in God’s Kingdom.