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Understanding the Parables

By R.C. Sproul

New Testament parables are simple stories that communicate profound, even astonishing truths about the nature of the kingdom and mission of Jesus. They reveal deep mysteries to those with eyes to see, but hide them from those who refuse to hear the truth. Join Dr. R.C. Sproul as he explores the “secrets of the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 13:11) by carefully examining the parables of Jesus.

  • Join the Worldwide Class

    or
    $45 / person

    Take this course with a class of Ligonier Connect students from around the world. Registration includes:

    • 24/7 access for 6 months to complete the course at your own pace
    • Video lectures from Dr. R.C. Sproul along with the full, downloadable study guide
    • Discuss questions and share notes with up to 30 other Ligonier Connect students in your class
    • Approved by the Association of Christian Schools International for one continuing education unit

  • Create your own group class

    or
    $24 / person

    Take this course with your own private group of friends, family, or colleagues (a minimum of 5 students is required). Each member is required to pay $24 for this class, or be a $9/month unlimited subscriber. Registration includes:

    • 24/7 access for 6 months for you and your group of 4 or more
    • Ability to monitor your group's progress and moderate discussion
    • Includes video lectures from Dr. R.C. Sproul along with the full, downloadable study guide
    • Approved by the Association of Christian Schools International for one continuing education unit

About this course

Jesus’ earthly ministry is significant for a number of reasons, especially for His prolific teaching about the kingdom of God. In this course, Dr. R.C. Sproul explores the teaching ministry of Jesus, focusing particularly on eleven of His parables. In "Understanding the Parables," learn why Jesus is the greatest teacher who ever lived and gain a deeper understanding of and higher affection for the timeless and weighty message He proclaimed. 



Course Path Preview

  • Getting Started

    • Welcome to Understanding the Parables

      • to-do Review Course Material
      • to-do Update Your Student Profile
      • to-do Introduce Yourself

  • Introduction

    • Lesson 1: Introduction

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Introduction
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 1 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Unjust Judge

    • Lesson 2: Parable of the Unjust Judge

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Unjust Judge
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 2 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Rich Fool

    • Lesson 3: Parable of the Rich Fool

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Rich Fool
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 3 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus

    • Lesson 4: Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 4 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Hidden Treasure & Parable of the Pearl of Great Price

    • Lesson 5: Parable of the Hidden Treasure & Parable of the Pearl of Great Price

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Hidden Treasure & Parable of the Pearl of Great Price
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 5 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard

    • Lesson 6: Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 6 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

    • Lesson 7: Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 7 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

    • Lesson 8: Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 8 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Good Samaritan

    • Lesson 9: Parable of the Good Samaritan

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Good Samaritan
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 9 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Prodigal Son

    • Lesson 10: Parable of the Prodigal Son

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch The Parable of the Prodigal Son
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 10 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins

    • Lesson 11: Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 11 Self-Assessment

  • Parable of the Talents

    • Lesson 12: Parable of the Talents

      • read Introduction
      • read Bible Reading
      • watch Parable of the Talents
      • to-do Discuss
      • Take Lesson 12 Self-Assessment

About the teacher

R.C. Sproul
Dr. R.C. Sproul is founder and president of Ligonier Ministries, Ligonier Academy and Reformation Bible College.

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