Parables in the Gospel of Matthew: Meaning, Purpose, and List
Introduction: What Are Parables, and Why Did Jesus Use Them?
Jesus frequently taught in parables—simple stories that conveyed deeper spiritual truths. In Matthew 13:10–17, HE explained that parables reveal truth to those with open hearts while concealing it from the hardened. This method fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah (cf. Isaiah 6:9–10) and aligns with Matthew’s theme of Jesus as the fulfillment of the Old Testament.
Matthew includes more parables than Mark and uses them to emphasize the Kingdom of Heaven—a central theme throughout his Gospel. These stories challenge listeners to reflect, repent, and reimagine their place in God’s unfolding reign.
How Many Parables Are in the Gospel of Matthew?
Depending on how they’re counted, scholars identify 23 to 28 distinct parables in Matthew. Some are unique to Matthew, while others are shared with Mark and Luke.
Notable groupings:
Seven parables in Matthew 13, often called “Kingdom Parables.”
Several eschatological parables in Matthew 24–25 (e.g., Ten Virgins, Talents, Sheep and Goats).
“Matthew-only” parables like the Unforgiving Servant (18:23–35) and Workers in the Vineyard (20:1–16).
Why Did Jesus Speak in Parables? (Matthew 13:10–17)
In Matthew 13, Jesus’ disciples ask, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” His answer is twofold:
Revelation and Concealment – Parables reveal truth to those willing to hear but conceal it from those resistant to God’s message.
Fulfillment of Prophecy – Jesus quotes Isaiah 6, showing that parables are not merely teaching tools but acts of judgment and mercy.
The parables test the heart: Will the listener lean in or walk away?
The Seven Kingdom Parables in Matthew 13 (Explained)
Matthew 13 offers a concentrated series of parables that unveil different aspects of God’s kingdom:
The Parable of the Sower (13:1–23)
Emphasizes different responses to the Word of God.
The Parable of the Weeds (13:24–30, 36–43)
Illustrates the coexistence of good and evil until the final judgment.
The Mustard Seed (13:31–32)
God’s kingdom starts small but grows beyond imagination.
The Yeast (13:33)
A subtle yet transformative influence of God’s reign.
The Hidden Treasure (13:44)
The kingdom’s value is worth everything.
The Pearl of Great Price (13:45–46)
Like the treasure, it’s worth total surrender.
The Net (13:47–50)
A picture of final judgment separating the righteous from the wicked.
Together, these parables present the kingdom as subversive, precious, surprising, and ultimately victorious.
Other Major Parables in Matthew
Parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:23–35)
This Matthew-only parable underscores the radical forgiveness expected in God’s kingdom. A servant forgiven a great debt refuses to forgive a smaller one, leading to his condemnation.
Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1–16)
This parable challenges notions of fairness, highlighting God’s generosity over human merit.
Parable of the Two Sons (Matthew 21:28–32)
Obedience is shown in action, not mere words. A call to genuine repentance.
Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1–13)
Be prepared for the delayed return of Christ; readiness is essential.
Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14–30)
Faithfulness is rewarded; inactivity is judged.
Parable of the Sheep and the Goats (Matthew 25:31–46)
Final judgment will hinge on acts of compassion and justice.
Themes Found in Matthew’s Parables
Judgment and accountability (e.g., Talents, Net, Sheep and Goats)
God’s mercy and justice (e.g., Unforgiving Servant)
Unexpected grace (e.g., Workers in the Vineyard)
Urgency of response (e.g., Ten Virgins, Sower)
The hidden but growing Kingdom (e.g., Mustard Seed, Yeast)
FAQ: Parables in the Gospel of Matthew
Q: How many parables are in Matthew?
A: There are about 23 distinct parables in Matthew’s Gospel, depending on how one counts variations and parable-like teachings.
Q: What are the 7 kingdom parables in Matthew 13?
A: Sower, Weeds, Mustard Seed, Yeast, Hidden Treasure, Pearl, and Net.
Q: Why did Jesus speak in parables in Matthew 13?
A: To both reveal truths to the faithful and conceal them from the resistant, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy.
Q: Which parables are unique to Matthew?
A: The Unforgiving Servant, Workers in the Vineyard, and Ten Virgins are found only in Matthew.
Q: What is the main theme of the parables in Matthew?
A: The nature of the kingdom of heaven—its arrival, growth, value, and final judgment.
