Of Pigs, Pearls, And Prodigals: A Fresh Look At The Parables Of Jesus (2000) - Plot & Excerpts
Of Pigs, Pearls & Prodigals is a concise guide to studying the parables presented in the New Testament. The book is organized into thirty-two chapters with each chapter focusing on a specific parable. John Bytheway lines out the circumstances of why the parable was presented, to whom it was told, and the physical location it was given at. Additional trivia is provided to help the reader better understand the cultural context. A variety of other sources are also quoted throughout to provide more enlightened insight. The book makes a great reference for teachers and students alike. I liked Of Pigs, Pearls & Prodigals because it gives straight forward explanations for the parables but still leaves the reader room to glean their own understanding. Reviews of the parables are presented in the same sequence in which they appear in the New Testament preceeded by brief statements about who, where, and why. But the in-depth story giving rise to each parable is not included. There is a sense of repetition rather than connection in skipping from one parable to the next. More complete explanation of the setting for each parable would help with understanding, interpretation, and appreciation.But there is much to learn always from the Savior's teachings. Among other aha moments for me was mention of Stephen R. Covey's description of an "abundance mentality" as compared to a "scarcity mentality." The former brings unselfishness, contentment, gratitude, respect, etc., while the latter brings the opposite. The Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard (Chapter 10)teaches clearly of Heavenly Father's "abundance mentality" as He provides grace, mercy, and eternal generosity always while we and the mortal world are not always fair.The more I read of the last half of this book, the more I enjoyed it.
What do You think about Of Pigs, Pearls, And Prodigals: A Fresh Look At The Parables Of Jesus (2000)?
He definitely writes for the youth of the church. It was a good refresher on the parables though.
—MYKcm
This book helped me to look at the parables in a different way and understand them better.
—Reece
This book is not your typical Bytheway read. I really loved it.
—sydney
