JESUS’ PREACHING
WHAT LITERARY TECHNIQUES HE USED?
Jesus utilized various literary techniques or figures of speech within his teachings to impart spiritual truths in a manner that resonated with his audience. Here are some key methods:
ALLEGORY
Biblical References
– Jesus as the Good Shepherd (Jn 10:1-18)
Meaning
Allegories use symbolic characters, events, or stories to convey deeper spiritual truths. In the Good Shepherd allegory, Jesus portrays himself as the shepherd who guides, protects, and lays down his life for his sheep (disciples).
Message for Christians
Jesus is the ultimate shepherd who cares for his flock. As his disciples, we must listen to his voice, follow his lead, and trust in his guidance. Jesus will protect us and ensure our eternal well-being.
PARABLES
Biblical References
– Parable of the Sower (Mt 13:1-23; Mk 4:1-20; Lk 8:4-15)
– Parable of the Prodigal Son (Lk 15:11-32)
– Parable of the Good Samaritan (Lk 10:25-37)
Meaning
Parables are simple stories that illustrate moral or spiritual lessons. The Parable of the Sower teaches about different responses to God’s message. The Prodigal Son parable emphasizes God’s limitless forgiveness. The Good Samaritan parable urges compassion for all people.
Message for Christians
Parables encourage us to be receptive to God’s word, repentant when we stray, and loving towards all people. They reveal profound spiritual truths in relatable stories.
METAPHOR
Biblical References
– “I am the Light of the world” (Jn 8:12)
– “I am the true vine” (Jn 15:1-8)
Meaning
Metaphors establish comparisons between two unlike things to clarify abstract concepts. Jesus metaphorically portrays himself as the light that guides and the vine that provides life and sustenance.
Message for Christians
Jesus is the source of illumination, life, and nourishment for his followers. We must remain connected to him, the true vine, to bear fruit and grow in faith.
SIMILES
Biblical References
– Wise man builds on rock, foolish on sand (Mt 7:24-27)
– Be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves (Mt 10:16)
Meaning
Similes compare two unlike things using “like” or “as”. The rock and sand simile illustrates building one’s life on Jesus’ teachings. The serpent and dove simile advises being wise yet innocent.
Message for Christians
Anchor your life on the solid foundation of Christ’s words. Pursue godly wisdom while maintaining purity of heart and intention.
PERSONIFICATION
Biblical References
– “I am the gate for the sheep” (Jn 10:7)
– “You are the salt of the earth” (Mt 5:13)
Meaning
Personification attributes human characteristics to non-human things. Jesus personifies himself as a gate and his followers as salt to make abstract concepts more relatable.
Message for Christians
Jesus is the only way to eternal life. As his disciples, we are to preserve and add flavor to the world around us.
HYPERBOLE
Biblical References
– Pluck out eye that causes sin (Mt 18:9)
– Easier for camel through needle’s eye (Mt 19:24)
Meaning
Hyperbole uses deliberate exaggeration to emphasize a point. Jesus employs this to stress the seriousness of sin and the difficulty for the wealthy to enter God’s kingdom.
Message for Christians
Take sin seriously and make sacrifices to avoid it. Wealth can be a hindrance to salvation if it leads to greed and self-reliance.
IDIOMS
Biblical References
– Blind leading blind (Mt 15:14)
– Turn other cheek (Mt 5:39)
– Go extra mile (Mt 5:41)
– Stop judging (Mt 7:1)
Meaning
Idioms are expressions with figurative, non-literal meanings. Jesus uses these to convey spiritual lessons about leadership, non-retaliation, going beyond duty, and avoiding judgment.
Message for Christians
Spiritual leaders must have insight to guide others rightly. Respond to aggression with non-violence. Exceed expectations in serving others. Refrain from judging to avoid judgment yourself.
SARCASM/IRONY
Biblical References
– Strain gnat, swallow camel (Mt 23:24)
– Blind leading blind (Lk 6:39)
– First will be last (Mt 20:16)
– That fox (Lk 13:32)
Meaning
Jesus occasionally used irony and sarcasm to emphasize a point or challenge flawed thinking. He mocks the Pharisees’ misplaced priorities and false teachers’ blindness.
Message for Christians
Beware of religious leaders who focus on minor rules while neglecting justice and mercy. False teachers lead people astray. God’s values are often the opposite of worldly values.
REPETITION
Biblical References
– Passion, death, resurrection (Mk 8:31; 9:31; 10:33–34)
– Beatitudes begin “Blessed are…” (Mt 5:3-12)
– “Peace be with you” (Jn 20:19-26)
– “Do you love me?” (Jn 21:15-17)
Meaning
Repeating key phrases emphasizes their importance. Jesus repeatedly foretells his death and resurrection. The beatitudes all begin with “Blessed are…” The resurrected Jesus greets his disciples with “Peace be with you.” He asks Peter “Do you love me?” three times.
Message for Christians
Jesus’ death and resurrection are central to the gospel. Pursuing God’s kingdom brings blessings. Jesus offers peace. We must love Jesus above all else.
REFLECTION
Jesus masterfully employed a range of literary tools to convey his teachings effectively, making complex spiritual truths accessible and memorable. By understanding and reflecting on these techniques, Christians can gain deeper insights into Jesus’ message and apply his teachings to their daily lives.