An analysis of the Biblical Parable and its Pedagogical Method

The biblical parable is unique in its ability to link the whole of biblical doctrine within a single story making it "transcriptural" (i.e.) succinctly piecing together the majority of biblical theology without having to make specific references to a long list of scriptures. This succinct condensing of knowledge is a valuable pedagogical tool; the parable of the "Prodigal Son" may be the greatest example of this feat, tying together Christian ideologies from every book of the bible from Genesis to Revelation, enabling reader to understand from one story the intentions of the bible as a whole. With the aid of recent studies on Jesus parables, this article will analyze the core rhetorical elements of the biblical parable and its pedagogical method.