Why Did Jesus Speak in Parables?

Full Question

Why did Jesus speak in parables?

Answer

Jesus spoke in parables to make the kingdom of God more easily understood by the people. Oftentimes when trying to explain something, using a story to illustrate the point is the most effective way to communicate the information.

Parables were a common method of teaching used by rabbis and prophets in the ancient world (see 2 Sam. 12:1-9). It was a teaching style well known and accepted.

Parables invite the listener into the story. Which character do we identify with and why?