Many of us have heard the parables of Jesus all our lives, and we might even know them by heart. So why study them again? Why take another look at the parable of the talents, the parable of the prodigal son, the parable of the wise and foolish virgins, and nine others? As our life experiences accumulate, we bring a fresh eye to the Scriptures. This is especially true of the parables, as they deal with people and life and everyday events. In many ways, reflecting on the parables in light of our own lives can bring us closer to Jesus. Whether you are encountering these parables for the first time or for the first time again, you will find them leading you into the mind and spirit of Jesus and offering lessons for living in the kingdom of God. Sessions: Introduction "He Said Nothing to Them Without a Parable"1. What to Do While Waiting for the Judgment Wise and Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13)2. The Power of Persistence Ask, Seek, Knock (Luke 11:1-13; 18:1-8)3. How to Deal With Demons The Empty House (Matthew 12:38-50)4. Good for Nothing The Barren Fig Tree (Luke 13:1-9)5. Serendipity The Treasure and the Pearl (Matthew 13:44-46)6. How to Escape Being Posessed by Possessions The Rich Fool (Luke 12:13-34)7. Our Most Common Sin Pharisee and Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-17)8. Practicing Humility Places at the Table (Luke 14:7-11)9. How Do We Get Rid of Evil Without Destroying Good? Wheat and Tares (Matthew 13:24-30)10. What to Do When You Have Been Forgiven The Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21-35)11. What to Do With Your Assets The Talents (Matthew 25:14-30)12. Lost and Found The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:1-32)