The Parables of Jesus (The Jesus Library) Paperback – August 28, 1989

I prepared a series of Bible studies on the parables of Jesus and wanted supplemental material to add to my understanding and class lectures. Specifically, I was interested in Jewish traditions and cultural insights that would add color and clarity to the stories.I purchased three books, including David Wenham's "The Parable of Jesus." I am not a Bible scholar and not particularly interested in theological debates over allegorical loose ends and old disputes over linguisitc fine points that other books were consumed with.This book provided me exactly what I needed - clear, concise insights into the culture, traditions and context of the times. For example, in the Prodigal Son, Wenham pointed out that by asking his father for his inheritance while the father was still living, in the meaning of the legal traditions, the prodigal was actually implying that he wished his father dead.In the parable of the Good Samritan, he observes that the road from "Jericho to Jerusalem" drops 2,500 feet along a treacherous and winding path; ideal for robbers and thieves to hang out. Further, he points out that "two denari" was enough money to pay for twenty-four nights at the inn.These details helped me to put meat on the bones of the story and bring to life these precious parables. These are not earth-shattering biblical truths, but they were very helpful to me in making the topic interesting and relevant. Just like Wenham's book.

Very good to help understand the background and culture of how they applied to that time and even applicable for today’s spiritual life.

I like the book

Incredible. I used this book so much that the pages started to fall out. Loved the historical and cultural background which added much greater understanding to my study. Wenham makes the parables practical to our every day life as well. Well worth the read and deep study.

This book has more detailed description of Jesus' Parables. I like its points on the new world and revolution. The interpretations are deeper than those of the other two books in the package.

I can't seem to whet satisfy my appetite for explanations of what Jesus says in his parables, but this book is one of several I have read that goes a long way in providing insight that is otherwise easily lost in cursory readings of our Lord's words. I definitely recommend it!

D. Wenham's survey of the parables is modern, inclusive, relaxed, and inventive. He loves the parables and you will appreciate them much more after reading this book.

Not much more to add. Good insights but the author is obsessed with speaking of revolution, which has too man inappropriate overtones or connotations.