Unique Parables in Luke

Jesus uses a unique parable to contract true versus false spirituality to the Jewish religious leaders in His time. The main principle within the parable is that God is opposed to those who exalt and promote self, but pleased and eager to show support towards those who are humble before Him. As we are more sensitized through the Holy Spirit about our tendency to exalt self, God is able to work powerfully to transform us into more radically humble servants in order to please Him.

Jesus' parable about the persistent neighbor gives insight into how we should approach God in prayer about ministry. Attitudes of willingness, helplessness and boldness are all critical when we come to God and want to have an impact in His ministry. The implications of listening to Jesus' parable would include praying boldly and moving in spite of our fears.

Jesus' parable of the shrewd manager reflects a few principles regarding our resources: 1) as Christians, we are are managers of God's resources; 2) our ability to manage God's resources will end soon; and 3) we can enjoy eternity in heaven more as we give generously in the present. It is of high importance that God's resources are seen as His resources, not ours, if we are to be effective in managing them until Jesus comes back.

Jesus' parable about the Great Banquet sheds light into God's invitation for forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Jesus uses the parable as a warning to those who think they're in the Kingdom of God when they are not. Being admitted into God's kingdom is based on an active response to his invitation through Jesus. The parable also looks ahead to heaven, which will include a diverse population of people who have placed their faith in Christ as a result of other Christian's sharing the message of the cross with them.

Jesus has an interaction with an expert in the law, and uses the conversation as an opportunity to confront the blind spots of his religious thinking. Jesus uses the parable of the Good Samaritan to show that we are incapable of meeting God's perfect standard, and need God's mercy. As Christians, we should beware of our arrogance and be quick to correct the blind spots of the culture around us, so that we may better share and reflect God's love to others.