FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired, but it is the key to following the original author's intent, which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
PRINCIPLES FOR INTERPRETING PARABLES (See full notes at the hyperlink)
A. Look to the context that precedes and follows to determine
1. the recipients of Jesus' words
2. the purpose of the parable
B. Determine the major theme (themes are usually linked to the number of main characters).
C. Do not press minor details into theological interpretations (parables are fictitious stories).
D. Avoid allegorizing and spiritualizing unless something in the text demands it.
E. Do not build doctrine solely on parables; they serve best as illustrations.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought-provoking, not definitive.
1. Why did Jesus continue to confront the religious leaders about their Oral Traditions?
2. Explain the metaphor and purpose of the Messianic Banquet.
3. Does Jesus want us to be poor and without family ties to be true disciples?