How Should We Study Parables? Context, Culture, and Application | Q&A Pt.2

This week on Cultivate, we dove into how to faithfully approach Jesus’ parables and what it means to study them today. Charlie Loften and Abigail Boone explored the cultural context of Jesus’ teachings—from agrarian metaphors to technology parallels in modern life—and why understanding the original audience matters so much. We talked about authorial intent, discussed why parables carry one big idea rather than many hidden meanings, and compared how we read Paul’s letters with the Gospels. Practical tips were shared for approaching parables: asking who Jesus was speaking to, discerning the main message, and reflecting on what details reveal about God’s heart. Whether you’re a casual Bible reader or ready to go deeper, this episode offers insight into how the stories of Jesus can speak to each of us, no matter our background. Consider how you might approach Scripture with fresh curiosity this week and invite God to meet you in both simple and surprising ways.