03 Parables: Exegetical Issues

The Parables of Jesus
Lesson Three:

A Great Supper

Last revised: 6/22/00

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1. What is the historical setting of this episode in the life of Jesus? Use Appendices 1 and 2 for general identification. Do the Synoptic Gospels place this episode in the same setting? If not, identify each setting. Use the outlines of Matthew and Luke to identify each along with historical setting identifications within each text.

2. What is the literary setting of this episode in each of the Synoptic Gospel accounts? Use the outlines of Matthew and Luke to identify each.

Luke:
Matthew:

3. Identify the statements in the block diagrams which contain the parable of the Great Supper.

Luke: Matthew:

4. Identify the historical background of the parable in the daily life of first century Palestine. Also identify any possible background use of an identical or similar parabolic metaphor in Jewish life both within and outside of the Old Testament.

Luke:
Matthew:

5. Identify the tertium comparitionis of the parable in each Gospel account.

Luke:
Matthew:

6. Identify the possible Sitz im Leben Kirche for each Synoptic Gospel account, by carefully analyzing the similarities and differences of each Gospel account.

Luke:
Matthew:

7. Identify which of the three types of parables this one best fits.

8. Identify which grouping of the parables this one best fits.

9. What insights does this parable provide concerning the Kingdom of God?

10. Suggest some possible preaching and teaching needs addressed by this parable.