State 7 reasons why Jesus used parables in his teachings.

1. To make complex spiritual truths more accessible and understandable to his audience, who may not have been well-versed in theological concepts.
2. To engage his listeners and capture their attention, as parables are often memorable and thought-provoking stories.
3. To challenge his audience to think critically and reflect on the deeper meaning behind the parables.
4. To fulfill Old Testament prophecies, as parables were a common teaching method used by prophets in the Hebrew Scriptures.
5. To differentiate his teachings from traditional religious authorities and offer a fresh perspective on spiritual matters.
6. To provoke a response from his listeners, whether it be conviction, repentance, or a call to action.
7. To illustrate the principles of the Kingdom of God in a way that was relevant and relatable to the everyday lives of his audience.

1. Accessibility: Parables were easy to understand, making them accessible to people from all backgrounds and levels of education.
2. Memorable: The vivid imagery and stories of parables helped people remember Jesus' teachings.
3. Concrete: Parables illustrated abstract concepts in a tangible way, making them easier to grasp.
4. Relevance: Parables often drew upon everyday experiences and situations, making them relatable to listeners.
5. Provocative: Parables often challenged listeners' assumptions and provoked deeper thought about religious and moral issues.
6. Multi-layered: Parables often had multiple levels of meaning, allowing for different interpretations and applications.
7. Universal: Parables transcended cultural boundaries, making them relevant to people in all societies and times.