Matthew 13:31-35 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

Parable and prophecy.

The spirit of prophecy in ancient times enshrined itself in parables. The prophecy of Balaam, accordingly, is called "his parable" ( Numbers 23:18 ). Under the parable of two eagles and a vine Ezekiel shows forth the judgments of God upon Jerusalem for revolting from Babylon to Egypt ( Ezekiel 18:1-32 .; see also Ezekiel 24:3 ; Micah 2:4-6 ; Habakkuk 2:6 ). So are the parables of Christ prophetic. Observe—

I. THAT JESUS TAUGHT IN PARABLES IN PURSUANCE OF PROPHECY .

1 . The end of that teaching was predicted.

2 . So was the means to the end.

II. THAT THE PARABLES BEFORE US MAY BE VIEWED AS PROPHECIES .

1 . They describe the gospel in its feeble beginning.

2 . They describe the gospel in its secret power.

3 . They describe the gospel in its ultimate triumph.