The Primary Purpose of Jesus' Parables

All these things Jesus spoke to the multitude in parables; and without a parable He did not speak to them, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying: "I will open My mouth in parables; I will utter things kept secret from the foundation of the world.” (MATT 13:34-35; NKJV; see PS 78:2; MK 4:33-34)

The primary purpose of the parables was to “conceal.”   Jesus began speaking in parables because of the hardness of many people's hearts (MATT 13:10-17).  By resorting to parables, Jesus effectively separated the truth-seekers from the curiosity-seekers!  Those seeking the truth would say "Explain to us the parable...“ (MATT 13:36), whereas the curiosity-seekers could easily be sent away.

 Listen to His parables.  Long to understand them.  Look for Him to reveal their meaning to you.