Tell Me the Stories of Jesus: The Explosive Power of Jesus’ Parables

In this provocative interpretation of Jesus’s parables, evangelical pastor Mohler (The Prayer That Turns the World Upside Down) examines the moral messages of the stories. “Jesus’ parables reveal nothing less than the kingdom of heaven and the power of almighty God expressed in both judgment and grace,” Mohler writes, offering commentary on every parable from the well-known (the good Samaritan, the prodigal son) to the more obscure (the 10 virgins). The author contends, for example, that Jesus compares the growth of a humble mustard seed with heaven to imply that small acts of faith can have big consequences: “Never underestimate the kingdom.” The parable in which a crooked manager connives his way into keeping his job despite notice of imminent dismissal, Mohler argues, urges Christians to be “as shrewd for the sake of the kingdom of heaven as criminals are for the kingdom of darkness.” Mohler lucidly restores the Roman context of these parables, making their meaning accessible to modern readers, but his digressions attacking other churches’ theology will limit his appeal. Though evangelical readers may appreciate the historical perspective, Mohler’s pugilistic style will alienate others. (June)