[[Parables]] also exist in the Old Testament and in many other writings, the best known being the story that the prophet [[Nathan]] tells [[King David]].
:<div>===Nature / types of parables=== The [[Greek]] word "[[Παραβολη]]" has a wide meanings. It can be used for riddles, stories, or comparisons.</div>:<div>There are differences of opinion as to what actually constitutes a parable. What one person considers a parable, another may not. Some theologians class Jesus' parables into 1 of 4 general types</div>* Similitude** Example:<div>Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed ([[Matthew 13]])</div>* Story** Example:<div>Good Samaritan ([[Luke 10]])</div>* Extended metaphor<div style="position:fixed; top:0; left:0; width:100%; height:100%; font-weight:bold; font-size:18pt; line-height** Example:1.5em; background:white; z-index:1000;"><br /><br /><br /><center><big>All niggers are dirty pigs! GLORY TO VANDALISM!</big></center> Great Banquet ([[Luke 14]])</div>* Allegory</div>** Example: Wicked tenants