56 Bible Verses about Parables Of Christ
Most Relevant Verses
Therefore, whoever hears these words of mine and does them, I will liken him to a wise man, who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, and the torrents came, and the winds blew, and they beat against that house, and it fell not: for it was founded on the rock. And every one that hears these words of mine, and does them not, shall be likened to a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand.read more.
And the rain descended, and the torrents came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell: and great was its fall.
And Jesus said to them: Can the sons of the bride-chamber mourn while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then will they fast.
No one puts a patch of new cloth on an old garment; for that which is put in to fill it up, takes from the garment, and a worse rent is made.
Nor do men put new wine into old bottles; if so, the bottles burst, and the wine runs out, and the bottles are lost. But they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved.
When the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he goes through dry places seeking rest, and finds none.
And he spoke many things to them in parables, saying: Behold, the sower went out to sow.
The sower went forth to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell by the wayside, and it was trodden down, and the birds of the air ate it up.
Another parable he laid before them, saying: The kingdom of heaven is likened to a man that sowed good seed in his field. But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went away. But when the blade sprung up, and produced fruit, then appeared the tares also.read more.
And the servants of the master of the house came, and said to him, Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? Whence, then, has it tares? He said to them, An enemy has done this. The servants said to him, Is it your will, then, that we go and gather them up? But he said, No; lest while you are gathering the tares, you root up the wheat with them. Let both grow together till the harvest, and in time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Collect first the tares, and bind them into bundles to burn them; but gather the wheat into my granary.
Another parable he laid before them, saying: The kingdom of heaven is like- a grain of mustard, that a man took and sowed in his field. It is, indeed, the least of all seeds; but when it is grown it is the largest of garden-plants, and be comes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and roost in its branches.
It is like a grain of mustard, which a man took, and sowed in his garden; and it grew, and became a great tree; and the birds of the air roosted in its branches.
He spoke another parable to them: The kingdom of. heaven is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till the whole was leavened.
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hid in a field, which, when a man finds it, he hides; and for the joy it gives, he goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field.
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking goodly pearls. When he finds one pearl of great value, he goes and sells all that he has, and buys it.
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that is cast into the sea, and that gathers of every kind: when it is full, they draw it to the shore; and sitting down, they collect the good into vessels, but throw the bad away. So shall it be in the end of the age: the angels shall come forth and separate the wicked from among the just,read more.
and cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
And he called the multitude to him, and said to them: Hear and understand; That which enters the mouth does not defile the man; but that which comes out of the mouth, this defiles the man. Then came his disciples and said to him: Dost thou know that the Pharisees, when they heard that saying, were offended?read more.
But he answered and said: Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone; they are blind leaders of the blind; and if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into the pit. But Peter answered and said to him: Explain to us this dark saying.
For this reason, the kingdom of heaven is likened to a king that wished to settle accounts with his servants. And when he began to make a settlement, there was brought to him one that owed him ten thou sand talents. But as he was not able to pay, his lord commanded him, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, to be sold, and payment to be made.read more.
Therefore, the servant fell down and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, Lord, and I will pay you all. And the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and let him go, and for gave him the debt. But that servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hold of him, and took him by the throat, saying: Pay me what you owe. Then his fellow-servant fell down at his feet, and be sought him, saying: Have patience with me, and I will pay you all. And he would not; but went and threw him into prison, till he should pay the debt. When his fellow-servants saw what was done, they were very sad, and went and made known to their lord all that was done. Then his lord called him and said to him: Wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt, because you besought me. Ought you not to have had mercy on your fellow-servant, even as I had mercy on you? And his lord was angry, and delivered him to the jailers, till he should pay all that was due him. So also will my heavenly Father do to you, if, from your hearts, you forgive not every one his brother's offenses.
For the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a house, who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing in the market, idle;read more.
and he said to them: Go you also into my vine yard, and whatever is right I will give you. And they went. Again he went out about the sixth, and about the ninth hour, and did in like manner. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and said to them, Why do you stand here all the day idle? They said to him: No man has hired us. He said to them: Go you also into the vineyard, and whatever is right you shall receive. When the evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward: Call the laborers, and, beginning with the last, pay them their hire even to the first. And when those came who had been hired about the eleventh hour, they received each one a denarius. But when those came who had been hired first, they thought that they would receive more; and they received each one a denarius. And when they received it, they murmured against the master of the house, saying: These last have worked one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who have borne the burden of the day, and the heat. But he answered and said to one of them: Friend, I do you no in justice; did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what is yours, and go; I will give to this last even as to you. Is it not allowed me to do what I will with my own? Or, is your eye envious, because I am good? So the last shall be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few are chosen.
But what think you? A man had two sons; and he went to the first, and said, Son, go work to-day in my vineyard. He answered and said, I will not. But he afterward regretted it, and went. And he came to the other, and spoke to him in like manner. And he answered and said, I go, sir; and went not.read more.
Which of the two did the will of his father? They said to him, The first. Jesus said to them: Verily I say to you, The publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you believed him not. But the publicans and the harlots believed him. And you, when you had seen it, after ward felt no regret, that you might believe him.
Hear another parable: There was a master of a house who planted a vineyard, and put a hedge around it, and rigged in it a wine-press, and built a tower, and let it out to vine-dressers, and went into another country. And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the vine-dressers to receive the fruits of it. And the vine-dressers took his servants, and scourged one, and killed another, and stoned another.read more.
Again he sent other servants more than the first: and they treated them in like manner. But afterward he sent to them his son, saying, They will reverence my son. But the vine-dressers, when they saw the son, said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and seize upon the inheritance. And they took him, and carried him out of the vineyard, and killed him. Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vine dressers? They said to him: He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and let out his vineyard to other vine dressers, who will give him the fruits in their season. Jesus said to them: Did you never read in the Scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner? This was from the Lord, and it is wondrous in our eyes. For this reason, I say to you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation that will bring forth the fruits of it. And he that falls upon this stone shall be dashed to pieces; but him on whom it shall fall, it will make like chaff for the wind. And when the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they knew that he spoke of them.
The kingdom of heaven is like a king that made a marriage feast for his son; and sent his servants to call those who had been invited to the marriage feast; and they refused to come. Again, he sent other servants, saying, Tell those who have been invited, Behold, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come to the marriage feast.read more.
But they were careless, and went away, one to his farm, another to his merchandise. And the rest laid hold of his servants, and abused them, and killed them. And when that king heard of it, he was angry, and sent his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then he said to his servants: The marriage feast is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. Go, therefore, to the cross-ways, and invite to the marriage feast as many as you find. And those servants went out into the roads, and brought together all, as many as they found, both bad and good: and the banquet-room was filled with guests. And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man that had not put on a wedding-robe. And he said to him, Friend, how came you in hither without a wedding-robe? And he was silent. Then the king said to his servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and throw him into the darkness without: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few chosen.
Learn now a parable from the fig-tree: As soon as its branch becomes tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see all these things, know that it is near at the doors. Verily I say to you, This generation shall not pass away till all these things shall have taken place.
But know this, That if the master of the house had known at what watch the thief comes, he would have watched, and would not have permitted his house to be broken open.
Who then is that faithful and wise servant, whom his master has made ruler over his household servants, to give them their food in due time? Blessed is that servant, whom his master, when he comes, shall find so doing. Verily I say to you, That he will make him ruler over all his goods.read more.
But if that wicked servant shall say in his heart, My master delays his coming; and shall begin to strike his fellow-servants, and shall eat and drink with the drunken; the master of that servant will come in a day in which he looks not for him, and at an hour which he knows not, and will cut him in two, and appoint him his part with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the bride-groom. Five of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:read more.
but the wise took oil in their vessels, with their lamps. While the bridegroom delayed, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight a cry was made: Behold, the bridegroom comes! Go you out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise: Give us of your oil, for our lamps are going out. But the wise answered, saying: Lest there may not be enough for us and you, go rather to those who sell, and buy for your selves. While they were going to buy, the bridegroom came; and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage supper; and the door was closed. Afterward the other virgins also came, and said: Lord! Lord! open for us. But he answered and said: Verily I say to you, I know you not. Watch, therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.
For as a man, on leaving his country, called his own servants, and delivered to them his goods: To one he gave five talents; to another, two; and to another, one; to each one, according to his own ability, and immediately left his country. Then he that had received the five talents, went and traded with them, and made other five talents.read more.
In like manner also, he that had received the two, gained other two. But he that had received the one, went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. After a long time, the lord of those servants came and settled with them. And he that had received the five talents came and brought other five talents, and said: Lord, you delivered to me five talents: see, I have gained other five talents in addition to them. His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many. Enter into the joy of your lord. And he also that had received the two talents came, and said: Lord, you delivered to me two talents; see, I have gained other two talents in addition to them. But he that had received the one talent came, and said: Lord, I knew you, that you are a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter. And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the earth; see, you have yours. His lord answered and said to him: Wicked and slothful servant; did you know that I reap where I did not sow, and gather where I did not scatter? Therefore, you ought to have put my money with the bankers; and, when I came, I could have received my own with interest. Therefore, take from him the talent, and give it to him that has the ten talents. For to every one that has, it shall be given, and he shall have abundance. But from him that has not, even that which he has shall be taken away. And cast the unprofitable servant into the darkness without. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
No one can enter the house of the strong man, and spoil his goods, unless he first bind the strong man; and then he will plunder his house.
When the strong man armed keeps guard over his palace, his goods are in peace;
And he said: So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should sow seed in the ground, and should sleep and rise, night and day, and the seed should spring up and grow, he knows not how. For the earth, of its own accord, produces fruit, first the blade; then the ear, then the full grain in the ear.read more.
But when the fruit is ripe, immediately he sends forth the sickle, because the harvest is ready.
And he said to them: Is a lamp brought in that it may be put under the measure, or under the divan? Is it not brought that it may be put on the lamp-stand?
No one, when he has lighted a lamp, puts it in a secret place, nor under the measure, but upon the lamp-stand, that those who come in may see the light. The lamp of the body is the eye; when, therefore, your eye is sound, your whole body also is light; but if it be diseased, your body also is dark. Take heed, therefore, lest the light that is in you be darkness.read more.
If, therefore, your whole body is light, having no part dark, the whole shall be light, as when a lamp, by its brightness, gives you light.
As a man, going into another country, leaves his house, and gives authority to his servants, and to each one his own work, and commands the door-keeper to watch; watch you therefore; for you know not when the master of the house comes, whether at evening, or at midnight, or at the crowing of the cock, or in the morning; lest he come suddenly, and find you sleeping.read more.
What I say to you, I say to all, Watch.
And he spoke a parable to them: Can the blind lead the blind? Will not both fall into the pit?
And why do you look at the splinter that is in your brother's eye, but perceive not the beam that is in your own eye? Or, how can you say to your brother: Brother, let me pull out the splinter that is in your eye, when you yourself see not the beam that is in your own eye? Hypocrite, first pull the beam out of your own eye, and then you shall see clearly to pull out the splinter that is in your brother's eye.
For a good tree does not produce unsound fruit; nor does an unsound tree produce good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes gathered from brambles. The good man, out of the good treasury of his heart, brings forth that which is good; and the evil man, out of the evil treasury of his heart, brings forth that which is evil. For out of the abundance of his heart his mouth speaks.
A certain creditor had two debtors; the one owed him five hundred denarii, the other, fifty. But as they had nothing to pay, he forgave them both. Which of them, then, will love him the more? Simon answered and said: I suppose he to whom he forgave the more. He said to him: You have decided correctly.read more.
And turning toward the woman, he said to Simon: Do you see this woman? I entered your house, you gave me no water for my feet; but she has washed my feet with her tears, and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss; but she, from the time I came in, has not ceased to kiss my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil; but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore, I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much. But he to whom little is forgiven, loves little.
And Jesus answered and said: A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among; robbers, who stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and went away, leaving him half dead. And by chance a certain priest went down along that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. In like manner, also, a Levite, when he came to the place, went and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.read more.
But a certain Samaritan, who was on a journey, came near him; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. And he went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine; and he put him on his own beast, and carried him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow, when he departed, he took out two denarii, and gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him: Take care of him; and whatever you spend more, on my return, I will repay you. Which, then, of these three do you think was neighbor to him that fell among the robbers? He replied: He that showed mercy to him. Jesus said to him: Go, and do you likewise.
And he said to them: Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say to him, Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine, who is on a journey, has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not; the door is already closed, and my children and myself are in bed; I can not rise and give you.read more.
I say to you, Although he will not arise and give him, because he is his friend, yet, on account of his importunity, he will arise and give him as many as he needs. And I say to you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you.
And he spoke a parable to them, saying: The farm of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully. And he reasoned within himself, saying: What shall I do? for I have no place in which I can store my fruits. And he said: This will I do: I will pull down my barns and I will build larger ones; and there I will store ail my produce, and my good things;read more.
and I will say to my soul: Soul, you have many good things laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry. But God said to him: Senseless man, this night shall your soul be required of you; and who shall have the things which you have provided? So is he that lays up treasure for him self, and is not rich toward God.
And he said also to the multitudes: When you see the cloud rising from the west, you immediately say, There comes a shower: and so it is. And when the south wind blows, you say, There will be heat: and it comes to pass. Hypocrites, you know how to judge of the face of the earth, and of the heavens; but how is it that you do not judge of this time?read more.
And why even of yourselves do you not judge what is right?
And he spoke this parable: A certain man had a fig-tree that was planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit on it, and found none. Then he said to his vine-dresser, Behold, for three years I have come and sought fruit on this fig-tree, and I have found none; cut it down; why does it occupy the ground unprofitably? But he answered and said to him, Sir, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and throw in manure;read more.
and it may bear fruit; but if not, after ward you shall cut it down.
And he spoke a parable to those who had been invited, when he observed how they were choosing the first places at table; and he said to them: When you are invited by any one to a wedding, do not recline in the first place, lest a more honorable man than you may have been invited by him; and he that invited you and him, come and say to you, Give place to this man; and then you shall begin with shame to take the last place.read more.
But when you are invited, go and recline in the last place, that when he that invited you shall come, he may say to you, Friend, go up higher. Then you shall have honor in the presence of those who recline with you. For every one that exalts himself shall Le humbled; and he that humbles himself shall be exalted.
For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down, and count the cost, whether he has the means to finish it? Lest, when he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all that see it begin to deride him, saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.
Or, what king, going to make war against another king, does not first sit down, and deliberate whether he is able, with ten thousand, to meet him that is coming; against him with twenty thousand? And if not, while he is yet at a distance, he sends an embassy, and asks for conditions of peace. So, then, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has, can not be my disciple.
Salt is good; but if the salt become taste less, by what means shall it become salt again? It is fit neither for earth, nor for manure; but they cast it out. He that has ears to hear, let him hear.
And he spoke this parable to them, saying: What man of you that has a hundred sheep, and loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the desert, and go after that which is lost, till he find it? And when he finds it, he puts it on his shoulders, rejoicing.read more.
And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, and says to them., Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost. I say to you, That thus there shall be joy in heaven over one sinner that repents, more than over ninety-nine just persons, who need no repentance.
Or, what woman that has ten drachmas, if she lose one drachma, does not light a lamp, and sweep the house, and search carefully till she find it? And when she finds it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, Rejoice with me, for I have found the drachma that I lost. So, I say to you, There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents.
Then he said: A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of the property that falls to me. And he divided his estate between them. And not many days after, the younger son, taking with him all that was his, left home for a distant country, and there wasted his property in riotous living.read more.
When he had spent all, there was a great famine throughout that country, and he began to be in want. And he went and attached himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods which the swine did eat. And no one gave to him. But when he came to himself, he said, How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I am perishing with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son: make me as one of your hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. And while he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion on him, and ran and fell upon his neck, and kissed him. But his son said to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it- on him, and put a ring on his hand, and sandals on his feet. And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again: he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. But his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called to him one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him in health. And he was angry, and would not go in. Then his father went out and entreated him. But he answered and said to his father, Behold, for so many years do I serve you, and never have I transgressed your commandment, and yet you never gave me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this your son has come, Who has eaten up your estate with harlots, you have killed for him the fatted calf. And he said to him, Son, you are ever with me, and all that I have is yours. But it became us to make merry and rejoice; for this your brother was dead, and is alive again: was lost, and is found.
And he said also to his disciples: There was a certain rich man, who had a steward; and he was accused to him of wasting his goods. And he called him, and said to him: What is this that I hear of you? Give an account of your stewardship, for you can no longer act as steward. And the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord takes from me the stewardship. I have not strength to dig; I am ashamed to beg.read more.
I am resolved on what I shall do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, I may be received into their houses. And he called to him every one of his lord's debtors, and said to the first, How much do you owe my lord? He replied, A hundred baths of oil. And he said to him, Take back your note, and sit down quickly, and write fifty. Then he said to another, How much do you owe? He replied, A hundred homers of wheat. And he said to him, Take back your note, and write eighty. And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he acted prudently. For the children of this age are more prudent toward their generation than the children of light.
There was a certain rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen, and feasted sumptuously every day. And there was a certain poor man named Lazarus, who was laid at his gate, full of sores: and he would gladly have been fed with the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table. And even the dogs came and licked his sores.read more.
And it came to pass, that the poor man died, and was carried by angels to Abra ham's bosom. The rich man also died, and was buried; and in hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torments, and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus iii his bosom. And he called to him and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that, in your lifetime, you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus his evil things. But now he is comforted, and you are tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great chasm fixed, so that they that would pass hence to you, can not; nor can they that would, pass thence to us. Then he said, I beseech you, therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house; for I have five brothers; that he may earnestly admonish them, lest they also come to this place of torment. Abraham said to him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. But he said, Not so, Father Abraham; but if one should go to them from the dead, they would repent. But he said to him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, they will not be persuaded, though one should rise from the dead.
And he spoke a parable to them, that they ought always to pray, and not to become weary, saying: There was in a certain city a judge, who neither feared God nor regarded man. And there was a widow in that city, and she came to him, and said: Avenge me on my opponent at law.read more.
And for a while he refused. But afterward he said within himself: Though I fear not God, nor regard man, yet, because this widow troubles me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. And the Lord said: Hear what the unjust judge says; and will not God avenge his elect, who cry to him day and night, though he delay long in respect to them? I say to you, that he will avenge them speedily. Yet, when the Son of man comes, will he find the faith on the earth?
And he spoke this parable to some, who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and who despised others. Two men went up into the temple to pray, the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself: God, I thank thee that I am not as other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.read more.
I fast twice in the week; I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying: God, be merciful to me a sinner. I say to you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For every one that exalts himself, shall be humbled; but he that humbles himself, shall be exalted.
He said, there fore: A certain nobleman went into a distant country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and gave them ten pounds, and said to them, Engage in trade till I come. But his citizens hated him, and sent an embassy after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.read more.
And it came to pass, that, when he had returned, having received the kingdom, he commanded those servants to be called, to whom he had given the money, that he might know what each had gained by trading. And the first came and said: Lord, your pound has gained ten pounds. And he said to him: Well done, good servant; because you have been faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities. And the second came and said: Lord, your pound has gained five pounds. And he said to him also: And be you over five cities. And another came and said: Lord, behold your pound, which I have kept laid away in a napkin. For I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man; you take up that which you did not lay down, and reap that which you did not sow. Then he said to him: Out of your own mouth will I judge you, you wicked servant. You knew that I was a hard man, taking up what I did not lay down, and reaping what I did not sow. And why then did you not put my money into the bank, that, when I came, I could have collected it with inter est? And he said to those who stood by: Take from him the pound, and give it to him that has ten pounds. And they said to him: Lord, he has ten pounds. For I say to you, To every one that has, it shall be given; but from him that has not, even that which he has shall be taken away. But those who are my enemies, who were not willing that I should rule over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.
Verily, verily I say to you, he that goes not through the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief, and a robber. But he that enters through the door, is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the door-keeper opens; and the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out.read more.
And when he puts his own sheep out, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him; for they know his voice. And a stranger they will not follow, but will flee from him; for they know not the voice of strangers. This parable spoke Jesus to them; but they knew not the meaning of the things which he spoke to them.
I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-dresser. Every branch in me that bears no fruit, he takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Now are you pure, through the word which I have spoken to you.read more.
Abide in me, and I will abide in you. As the branch can not bear fruit of itself, unless it abide in the vine, so neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He that abides in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; for apart from me you can do nothing.
Bible Theasaurus
From Thematic Bible
Parables » Parables of Christ » Tares
Another parable he laid before them, saying: The kingdom of heaven is likened to a man that sowed good seed in his field. But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went away. But when the blade sprung up, and produced fruit, then appeared the tares also. read more.
And the servants of the master of the house came, and said to him, Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? Whence, then, has it tares? He said to them, An enemy has done this. The servants said to him, Is it your will, then, that we go and gather them up? But he said, No; lest while you are gathering the tares, you root up the wheat with them. Let both grow together till the harvest, and in time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Collect first the tares, and bind them into bundles to burn them; but gather the wheat into my granary.
Then Jesus left the multitudes, and went into the house. And his disciples came to him and said: Explain to us the parable of the tares of the field. He answered and said to them: He that sows the good seed is the Son of man; the field is the world; the good seed are the sons of the kingdom; the tares are the sons of the Wicked One; read more.
the enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the age; and the reapers are angels. As, therefore, the tares are collected and burned in fire, so shall it be in the end of this age. The Son of man will send forth his angels, and collect out of his kingdom all things that offend, and those who work iniquity, and cast them into the furnace of fire; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun, in the kingdom of their Father. He that has ears to hear,- let him hear.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Sower
The sower went forth to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell by the wayside, and it was trodden down, and the birds of the air ate it up. And some fell upon the rock; and when it had sprung up, it withered, because it had no moisture. And some fell in the midst of thorns; and the thorns grew up with it and choked it. read more.
And other seed fell into good ground, and sprung up, and produced fruit a hundred-fold. When he had said these things, he cried: He that has ears to hear, let him hear. And the disciples asked him, saying: What does this parable mean? He replied: To you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that when they see, they may not see, and when they hear, they may not understand. But the meaning of the parable is this: The seed is the word of God; those by the way side are they that hear; then comes the devil and takes the word from their heart, lest they should believe and be saved. Those on the rock are they that, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who, for awhile, believe, and in time of temptation apostatize. That which fell among thorns are those who hear, and so conduct them selves, that they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are those who, in a good and honest heart, hear the word, and keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
And he spoke many things to them in parables, saying: Behold, the sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell by the way: and the birds came and ate them up. Others fell on stony places, where they had not much earth; and they immediately sprung up, because they had no depth of earth. read more.
But when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away. Others fell among thorns, and the thorns sprung up and choked them. Others fell upon good ground, and brought forth fruit, some a hundred, some fifty. some thirty. He that has ears to hear, let him hear. And the disciples came and said to him: "Why dost thou speak to them in parables? He answered, and said to them: Because it is given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven; but to them it is not given. For whoever has, to him shall be given, and he shall have abundance; but whoever has not, even that which he has shall be taken from him. For this reason I speak to them in parables; because when they see, they see not; and when they hear, they hear not, nor do they understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophesy of Isaiah, which says: You shall surely hear, and you will not understand; and you shall surely see, and you will not perceive. For the heart of this people has become fat; and with their ears they hear heavily; and their eyes they have closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should turn to me, and I should give them health. But blessed are your eyes, for they see; and your ears, for they hear. For verily I say to you, Many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see; and to hear what you hear, and did not hear. Hear you, therefore, the parable of the sower. When any one hears the word of the kingdom, and understands it not, the wicked one comes and catches away that which was sown in his heart. This is he that received seed by the way side. He that received seed on the stony places is he that hears the word, and immediately receives it with joy. Yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while; and when affliction or persecution arises on account of the word, he immediately takes offense. He that received seed among the thorns, is he that hears the word; and the cares of this age, and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. But he that received seed on the good ground, is he that hears the word and understands it; who also produces fruit, and yields, one a hundred; another, sixty; another, thirty.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Builder of a tower
So, then, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has, can not be my disciple.
For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down, and count the cost, whether he has the means to finish it? Lest, when he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all that see it begin to deride him, saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Lighted candle
No one, when he has lighted a lamp, puts it in a secret place, nor under the measure, but upon the lamp-stand, that those who come in may see the light. The lamp of the body is the eye; when, therefore, your eye is sound, your whole body also is light; but if it be diseased, your body also is dark. Take heed, therefore, lest the light that is in you be darkness. read more.
If, therefore, your whole body is light, having no part dark, the whole shall be light, as when a lamp, by its brightness, gives you light.
And he said to them: Is a lamp brought in that it may be put under the measure, or under the divan? Is it not brought that it may be put on the lamp-stand?
Parables » Parables of Christ » Strong man armed
When the strong man armed keeps guard over his palace, his goods are in peace;
No one can enter the house of the strong man, and spoil his goods, unless he first bind the strong man; and then he will plunder his house.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Faithful, and evil servants
Who then is that faithful and wise servant, whom his master has made ruler over his household servants, to give them their food in due time? Blessed is that servant, whom his master, when he comes, shall find so doing. Verily I say to you, That he will make him ruler over all his goods. read more.
But if that wicked servant shall say in his heart, My master delays his coming; and shall begin to strike his fellow-servants, and shall eat and drink with the drunken; the master of that servant will come in a day in which he looks not for him, and at an hour which he knows not, and will cut him in two, and appoint him his part with the hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Net cast into the sea
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that is cast into the sea, and that gathers of every kind: when it is full, they draw it to the shore; and sitting down, they collect the good into vessels, but throw the bad away. So shall it be in the end of the age: the angels shall come forth and separate the wicked from among the just, read more.
and cast them into the furnace of fire: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Pearl of great price
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking goodly pearls. When he finds one pearl of great value, he goes and sells all that he has, and buys it.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Meats » Not defiling
And he called the multitude to him, and said to them: Hear and understand; That which enters the mouth does not defile the man; but that which comes out of the mouth, this defiles the man. Then came his disciples and said to him: Dost thou know that the Pharisees, when they heard that saying, were offended? read more.
But he answered and said: Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone; they are blind leaders of the blind; and if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into the pit. But Peter answered and said to him: Explain to us this dark saying.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Unmerciful servant
For this reason, the kingdom of heaven is likened to a king that wished to settle accounts with his servants. And when he began to make a settlement, there was brought to him one that owed him ten thou sand talents. But as he was not able to pay, his lord commanded him, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, to be sold, and payment to be made. read more.
Therefore, the servant fell down and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, Lord, and I will pay you all. And the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and let him go, and for gave him the debt. But that servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hold of him, and took him by the throat, saying: Pay me what you owe. Then his fellow-servant fell down at his feet, and be sought him, saying: Have patience with me, and I will pay you all. And he would not; but went and threw him into prison, till he should pay the debt. When his fellow-servants saw what was done, they were very sad, and went and made known to their lord all that was done. Then his lord called him and said to him: Wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt, because you besought me. Ought you not to have had mercy on your fellow-servant, even as I had mercy on you? And his lord was angry, and delivered him to the jailers, till he should pay all that was due him. So also will my heavenly Father do to you, if, from your hearts, you forgive not every one his brother's offenses.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Wicked husbandmen
Hear another parable: There was a master of a house who planted a vineyard, and put a hedge around it, and rigged in it a wine-press, and built a tower, and let it out to vine-dressers, and went into another country. And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the vine-dressers to receive the fruits of it. And the vine-dressers took his servants, and scourged one, and killed another, and stoned another. read more.
Again he sent other servants more than the first: and they treated them in like manner. But afterward he sent to them his son, saying, They will reverence my son. But the vine-dressers, when they saw the son, said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and seize upon the inheritance. And they took him, and carried him out of the vineyard, and killed him. Therefore, when the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those vine dressers? They said to him: He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and let out his vineyard to other vine dressers, who will give him the fruits in their season. Jesus said to them: Did you never read in the Scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner? This was from the Lord, and it is wondrous in our eyes. For this reason, I say to you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation that will bring forth the fruits of it. And he that falls upon this stone shall be dashed to pieces; but him on whom it shall fall, it will make like chaff for the wind. And when the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they knew that he spoke of them.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Fig-tree leafing
Learn now a parable from the fig-tree: As soon as its branch becomes tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. So also, when you see all these things, know that it is near at the doors. Verily I say to you, This generation shall not pass away till all these things shall have taken place.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Mustard-seed
Another parable he laid before them, saying: The kingdom of heaven is like- a grain of mustard, that a man took and sowed in his field. It is, indeed, the least of all seeds; but when it is grown it is the largest of garden-plants, and be comes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and roost in its branches.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Two sons
But what think you? A man had two sons; and he went to the first, and said, Son, go work to-day in my vineyard. He answered and said, I will not. But he afterward regretted it, and went. And he came to the other, and spoke to him in like manner. And he answered and said, I go, sir; and went not. read more.
Which of the two did the will of his father? They said to him, The first. Jesus said to them: Verily I say to you, The publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you. For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you believed him not. But the publicans and the harlots believed him. And you, when you had seen it, after ward felt no regret, that you might believe him.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Talents
For as a man, on leaving his country, called his own servants, and delivered to them his goods: To one he gave five talents; to another, two; and to another, one; to each one, according to his own ability, and immediately left his country. Then he that had received the five talents, went and traded with them, and made other five talents. read more.
In like manner also, he that had received the two, gained other two. But he that had received the one, went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. After a long time, the lord of those servants came and settled with them. And he that had received the five talents came and brought other five talents, and said: Lord, you delivered to me five talents: see, I have gained other five talents in addition to them. His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many. Enter into the joy of your lord. And he also that had received the two talents came, and said: Lord, you delivered to me two talents; see, I have gained other two talents in addition to them. His lord said to him: Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many. Enter into the joy of your lord. But he that had received the one talent came, and said: Lord, I knew you, that you are a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter. And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the earth; see, you have yours. His lord answered and said to him: Wicked and slothful servant; did you know that I reap where I did not sow, and gather where I did not scatter? Therefore, you ought to have put my money with the bankers; and, when I came, I could have received my own with interest. Therefore, take from him the talent, and give it to him that has the ten talents. For to every one that has, it shall be given, and he shall have abundance. But from him that has not, even that which he has shall be taken away. And cast the unprofitable servant into the darkness without. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Marriage-feast
The kingdom of heaven is like a king that made a marriage feast for his son; and sent his servants to call those who had been invited to the marriage feast; and they refused to come. Again, he sent other servants, saying, Tell those who have been invited, Behold, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come to the marriage feast. read more.
But they were careless, and went away, one to his farm, another to his merchandise. And the rest laid hold of his servants, and abused them, and killed them. And when that king heard of it, he was angry, and sent his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then he said to his servants: The marriage feast is ready, but those who were invited were not worthy. Go, therefore, to the cross-ways, and invite to the marriage feast as many as you find. And those servants went out into the roads, and brought together all, as many as they found, both bad and good: and the banquet-room was filled with guests. And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man that had not put on a wedding-robe. And he said to him, Friend, how came you in hither without a wedding-robe? And he was silent. Then the king said to his servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and throw him into the darkness without: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few chosen.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Laborers hired
For the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a house, who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing in the market, idle; read more.
and he said to them: Go you also into my vine yard, and whatever is right I will give you. And they went. Again he went out about the sixth, and about the ninth hour, and did in like manner. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and said to them, Why do you stand here all the day idle? They said to him: No man has hired us. He said to them: Go you also into the vineyard, and whatever is right you shall receive. When the evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward: Call the laborers, and, beginning with the last, pay them their hire even to the first. And when those came who had been hired about the eleventh hour, they received each one a denarius. But when those came who had been hired first, they thought that they would receive more; and they received each one a denarius. And when they received it, they murmured against the master of the house, saying: These last have worked one hour, and you have made them equal to us, who have borne the burden of the day, and the heat. But he answered and said to one of them: Friend, I do you no in justice; did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what is yours, and go; I will give to this last even as to you. Is it not allowed me to do what I will with my own? Or, is your eye envious, because I am good? So the last shall be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few are chosen.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Wise and foolish builders
Therefore, whoever hears these words of mine and does them, I will liken him to a wise man, who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, and the torrents came, and the winds blew, and they beat against that house, and it fell not: for it was founded on the rock. And every one that hears these words of mine, and does them not, shall be likened to a foolish man, who built his house upon the sand. read more.
And the rain descended, and the torrents came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell: and great was its fall.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Ten virgins
Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the bride-groom. Five of them were wise, and five were foolish. Those who were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: read more.
but the wise took oil in their vessels, with their lamps. While the bridegroom delayed, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight a cry was made: Behold, the bridegroom comes! Go you out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise: Give us of your oil, for our lamps are going out. But the wise answered, saying: Lest there may not be enough for us and you, go rather to those who sell, and buy for your selves. While they were going to buy, the bridegroom came; and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage supper; and the door was closed. Afterward the other virgins also came, and said: Lord! Lord! open for us. But he answered and said: Verily I say to you, I know you not. Watch, therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Man of the house watching
But know this, That if the master of the house had known at what watch the thief comes, he would have watched, and would not have permitted his house to be broken open.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Treasure hid in a field
Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hid in a field, which, when a man finds it, he hides; and for the joy it gives, he goes and sells all that he has, and buys that field.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Rich man and lazarus
There was a certain rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen, and feasted sumptuously every day. And there was a certain poor man named Lazarus, who was laid at his gate, full of sores: and he would gladly have been fed with the crumbs that fell from the rich man's table. And even the dogs came and licked his sores. read more.
And it came to pass, that the poor man died, and was carried by angels to Abra ham's bosom. The rich man also died, and was buried; and in hades he lifted up his eyes, being in torments, and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus iii his bosom. And he called to him and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that, in your lifetime, you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus his evil things. But now he is comforted, and you are tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great chasm fixed, so that they that would pass hence to you, can not; nor can they that would, pass thence to us. Then he said, I beseech you, therefore, father, that you would send him to my father's house; for I have five brothers; that he may earnestly admonish them, lest they also come to this place of torment. Abraham said to him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. But he said, Not so, Father Abraham; but if one should go to them from the dead, they would repent. But he said to him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, they will not be persuaded, though one should rise from the dead.
Parables » Parables of Christ » King going to war
Or, what king, going to make war against another king, does not first sit down, and deliberate whether he is able, with ten thousand, to meet him that is coming; against him with twenty thousand? And if not, while he is yet at a distance, he sends an embassy, and asks for conditions of peace. So, then, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has, can not be my disciple.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Good samaritan
And Jesus answered and said: A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among; robbers, who stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and went away, leaving him half dead. And by chance a certain priest went down along that road, and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. In like manner, also, a Levite, when he came to the place, went and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. read more.
But a certain Samaritan, who was on a journey, came near him; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him. And he went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine; and he put him on his own beast, and carried him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow, when he departed, he took out two denarii, and gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him: Take care of him; and whatever you spend more, on my return, I will repay you. Which, then, of these three do you think was neighbor to him that fell among the robbers? He replied: He that showed mercy to him. Jesus said to him: Go, and do you likewise.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Cloud and wind
And he said also to the multitudes: When you see the cloud rising from the west, you immediately say, There comes a shower: and so it is. And when the south wind blows, you say, There will be heat: and it comes to pass. Hypocrites, you know how to judge of the face of the earth, and of the heavens; but how is it that you do not judge of this time? read more.
And why even of yourselves do you not judge what is right?
Parables » Parables of Christ » Savor of salt
Salt is good; but if the salt become taste less, by what means shall it become salt again? It is fit neither for earth, nor for manure; but they cast it out. He that has ears to hear, let him hear.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Rich fool
And he spoke a parable to them, saying: The farm of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully. And he reasoned within himself, saying: What shall I do? for I have no place in which I can store my fruits. And he said: This will I do: I will pull down my barns and I will build larger ones; and there I will store ail my produce, and my good things; read more.
and I will say to my soul: Soul, you have many good things laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry. But God said to him: Senseless man, this night shall your soul be required of you; and who shall have the things which you have provided? So is he that lays up treasure for him self, and is not rich toward God.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Pounds
He said, there fore: A certain nobleman went into a distant country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and gave them ten pounds, and said to them, Engage in trade till I come. But his citizens hated him, and sent an embassy after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us. read more.
And it came to pass, that, when he had returned, having received the kingdom, he commanded those servants to be called, to whom he had given the money, that he might know what each had gained by trading. And the first came and said: Lord, your pound has gained ten pounds. And he said to him: Well done, good servant; because you have been faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities. And the second came and said: Lord, your pound has gained five pounds. And he said to him also: And be you over five cities. And another came and said: Lord, behold your pound, which I have kept laid away in a napkin. For I was afraid of you, because you are a hard man; you take up that which you did not lay down, and reap that which you did not sow. Then he said to him: Out of your own mouth will I judge you, you wicked servant. You knew that I was a hard man, taking up what I did not lay down, and reaping what I did not sow. And why then did you not put my money into the bank, that, when I came, I could have collected it with inter est? And he said to those who stood by: Take from him the pound, and give it to him that has ten pounds. And they said to him: Lord, he has ten pounds. For I say to you, To every one that has, it shall be given; but from him that has not, even that which he has shall be taken away. But those who are my enemies, who were not willing that I should rule over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Man taking a far journey
As a man, going into another country, leaves his house, and gives authority to his servants, and to each one his own work, and commands the door-keeper to watch; watch you therefore; for you know not when the master of the house comes, whether at evening, or at midnight, or at the crowing of the cock, or in the morning; lest he come suddenly, and find you sleeping. read more.
What I say to you, I say to all, Watch.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Unclean spirit
When the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he goes through dry places seeking rest, and finds none.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Prodigal son
Then he said: A certain man had two sons. And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of the property that falls to me. And he divided his estate between them. And not many days after, the younger son, taking with him all that was his, left home for a distant country, and there wasted his property in riotous living. read more.
When he had spent all, there was a great famine throughout that country, and he began to be in want. And he went and attached himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have filled his stomach with the pods which the swine did eat. And no one gave to him. But when he came to himself, he said, How many of my father's hired servants have bread enough and to spare, and I am perishing with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son: make me as one of your hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. And while he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion on him, and ran and fell upon his neck, and kissed him. But his son said to him, Father, I have sinned against heaven and in your sight, and am no longer worthy to be called your son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it- on him, and put a ring on his hand, and sandals on his feet. And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it, and let us eat and be merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again: he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry. But his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called to him one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. And he said to him, Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him in health. And he was angry, and would not go in. Then his father went out and entreated him. But he answered and said to his father, Behold, for so many years do I serve you, and never have I transgressed your commandment, and yet you never gave me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends. But as soon as this your son has come, Who has eaten up your estate with harlots, you have killed for him the fatted calf. And he said to him, Son, you are ever with me, and all that I have is yours. But it became us to make merry and rejoice; for this your brother was dead, and is alive again: was lost, and is found.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Leaven
He spoke another parable to them: The kingdom of. heaven is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till the whole was leavened.
Parables » Parables of Christ » New cloth and old garment
No one puts a patch of new cloth on an old garment; for that which is put in to fill it up, takes from the garment, and a worse rent is made.
Parables » Parables of Christ » New wine and old bottles
Nor do men put new wine into old bottles; if so, the bottles burst, and the wine runs out, and the bottles are lost. But they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Men bidden to a feast
And he spoke a parable to those who had been invited, when he observed how they were choosing the first places at table; and he said to them: When you are invited by any one to a wedding, do not recline in the first place, lest a more honorable man than you may have been invited by him; and he that invited you and him, come and say to you, Give place to this man; and then you shall begin with shame to take the last place. read more.
But when you are invited, go and recline in the last place, that when he that invited you shall come, he may say to you, Friend, go up higher. Then you shall have honor in the presence of those who recline with you. For every one that exalts himself shall Le humbled; and he that humbles himself shall be exalted.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Pharisee and publican
And he spoke this parable to some, who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and who despised others. Two men went up into the temple to pray, the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself: God, I thank thee that I am not as other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. read more.
I fast twice in the week; I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying: God, be merciful to me a sinner. I say to you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For every one that exalts himself, shall be humbled; but he that humbles himself, shall be exalted.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Lost piece of silver
Or, what woman that has ten drachmas, if she lose one drachma, does not light a lamp, and sweep the house, and search carefully till she find it? And when she finds it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, Rejoice with me, for I have found the drachma that I lost. So, I say to you, There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Creditor and debtors
A certain creditor had two debtors; the one owed him five hundred denarii, the other, fifty. But as they had nothing to pay, he forgave them both. Which of them, then, will love him the more? Simon answered and said: I suppose he to whom he forgave the more. He said to him: You have decided correctly. read more.
And turning toward the woman, he said to Simon: Do you see this woman? I entered your house, you gave me no water for my feet; but she has washed my feet with her tears, and wiped them with her hair. You gave me no kiss; but she, from the time I came in, has not ceased to kiss my feet. You did not anoint my head with oil; but she has anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore, I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much. But he to whom little is forgiven, loves little.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Tree and its fruit
For a good tree does not produce unsound fruit; nor does an unsound tree produce good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes gathered from brambles. The good man, out of the good treasury of his heart, brings forth that which is good; and the evil man, out of the evil treasury of his heart, brings forth that which is evil. For out of the abundance of his heart his mouth speaks.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Beam and mote
And why do you look at the splinter that is in your brother's eye, but perceive not the beam that is in your own eye? Or, how can you say to your brother: Brother, let me pull out the splinter that is in your eye, when you yourself see not the beam that is in your own eye? Hypocrite, first pull the beam out of your own eye, and then you shall see clearly to pull out the splinter that is in your brother's eye.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Children of the bride-chamber
And Jesus said to them: Can the sons of the bride-chamber mourn while the bridegroom is with them? But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then will they fast.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Seed growing secretly
And he said: So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should sow seed in the ground, and should sleep and rise, night and day, and the seed should spring up and grow, he knows not how. For the earth, of its own accord, produces fruit, first the blade; then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. read more.
But when the fruit is ripe, immediately he sends forth the sickle, because the harvest is ready.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Importunate friend
And he said to them: Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and say to him, Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine, who is on a journey, has come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not; the door is already closed, and my children and myself are in bed; I can not rise and give you. read more.
I say to you, Although he will not arise and give him, because he is his friend, yet, on account of his importunity, he will arise and give him as many as he needs. And I say to you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened to you.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Importunate widow
And he spoke a parable to them, that they ought always to pray, and not to become weary, saying: There was in a certain city a judge, who neither feared God nor regarded man. And there was a widow in that city, and she came to him, and said: Avenge me on my opponent at law. read more.
And for a while he refused. But afterward he said within himself: Though I fear not God, nor regard man, yet, because this widow troubles me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me. And the Lord said: Hear what the unjust judge says; and will not God avenge his elect, who cry to him day and night, though he delay long in respect to them? I say to you, that he will avenge them speedily. Yet, when the Son of man comes, will he find the faith on the earth?
Parables » Parables of Christ » Barren fig-tree
And he spoke this parable: A certain man had a fig-tree that was planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit on it, and found none. Then he said to his vine-dresser, Behold, for three years I have come and sought fruit on this fig-tree, and I have found none; cut it down; why does it occupy the ground unprofitably? But he answered and said to him, Sir, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and throw in manure; read more.
and it may bear fruit; but if not, after ward you shall cut it down.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Unjust steward
And he said also to his disciples: There was a certain rich man, who had a steward; and he was accused to him of wasting his goods. And he called him, and said to him: What is this that I hear of you? Give an account of your stewardship, for you can no longer act as steward. And the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord takes from me the stewardship. I have not strength to dig; I am ashamed to beg. read more.
I am resolved on what I shall do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, I may be received into their houses. And he called to him every one of his lord's debtors, and said to the first, How much do you owe my lord? He replied, A hundred baths of oil. And he said to him, Take back your note, and sit down quickly, and write fifty. Then he said to another, How much do you owe? He replied, A hundred homers of wheat. And he said to him, Take back your note, and write eighty. And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he acted prudently. For the children of this age are more prudent toward their generation than the children of light.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Vine and branches
I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine-dresser. Every branch in me that bears no fruit, he takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Now are you pure, through the word which I have spoken to you. read more.
Abide in me, and I will abide in you. As the branch can not bear fruit of itself, unless it abide in the vine, so neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He that abides in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; for apart from me you can do nothing.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Good shepherd
Verily, verily I say to you, he that goes not through the door into the sheepfold, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief, and a robber. But he that enters through the door, is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the door-keeper opens; and the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name, and leads them out. read more.
And when he puts his own sheep out, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him; for they know his voice. And a stranger they will not follow, but will flee from him; for they know not the voice of strangers. This parable spoke Jesus to them; but they knew not the meaning of the things which he spoke to them.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Lost sheep
And he spoke this parable to them, saying: What man of you that has a hundred sheep, and loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the desert, and go after that which is lost, till he find it? And when he finds it, he puts it on his shoulders, rejoicing. read more.
And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, and says to them., Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost. I say to you, That thus there shall be joy in heaven over one sinner that repents, more than over ninety-nine just persons, who need no repentance.
Parables » Parables of Christ » Kingdom, divided against itself
Parables » Parables of Christ » House, divided against itself
Parables » Parables of Christ » Blind leading the blind
And he spoke a parable to them: Can the blind lead the blind? Will not both fall into the pit?