Jesus conceals truth for us, not 'from' us! There are two main conceptions in what and why Jesus uses parables in edifying and instructing us. One, He uses simple everyday illustrations, allegories, stories, and word pictures that He pointed to, showcasing an illustration that people could understand and relate to. Second, in the illustration dwells a layered meaning-like an onion, if you will--that has a depth to it. His main reason? People, for the most part, are 'concrete' thinkers. We tend to look to the simplest, easiest meaning to mentally digest solution and rarely seek a deeper meaning or application. However, to grow in faith, we need to grow beyond ourselves, our perception, and our assumptions in order to grasp the true Truths Christ has for us. Thus, for us to grow in faith...

 

What is a Parable?

The word 'parable' comes from the Greek word parabole; it means "to throw alongside. (The word 'ball' comes from this.) Parables use everyday objects to teach deeper philosophical truths which most people could never grasp otherwise. Jesus uses them to teach more profound Divine eternal matters by which non-Christians cannot comprehend. A parable does not necessarily hide the lesson; rather, it teaches in such a way that it can be grasped better by those who are opened to the understanding required for learning and application. It is the intangible wrapped in the tangible. It is beyond logic, metaphor, allegory, or abstract reasoning; it is stimulating the person's interest to open his/her eyes and ears and engaging his mind to seek truth, rather than himself, as a means of grasping the lesson God has for him (Matt. 13:52; 2 Tim. 3:7 ).

 

More here: Overview-of-the-Bible

 

Coming next is Ephesians....