Week 2 ~

Share and Report Assignment week 2

Choice 2: Matthew 13:24-48 The Lord Often Taught with Parables

1.       In the Bible Dictionary read the first three paragraphs under the entry “parables” (pp 740-741) In your own words, write a definition of a parable.

A parable is a form of teaching.  It was most widely used by the Savior.  A parable requires higher understanding and is meant for those that are studying and seeking greater knowledge.  

2.       Read the following parables: parable of the tares (Matt 13:24-30); parables of the mustard seed and the leaven (Matt 13:31-33); parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price (matt 13:44-46); parable of the gospel net (Matthew 13:47-50) Next to each of the following questions write the name for the parable that best answers that question.

·         What describes the future growth of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints? (Parable of the leaven)

·         Why does the church send out so many missionaries? (Parable of the net)

·         How do you explain the remarkable growth of the church considering that it is fairly new compared to most world religions and started small in the American frontier? (Parable of the mustard seed)

·         Why are some members of the church willing to sacrifice so much worldly wealth and recognition in order to maintain membership in the church? ( Parable of the treasure and the pearl of great price)

·         Why do some church members choose to leave the church?(Parable of the tares)

3. Write answers to the following questions.

Consider the parables of the treasure and the pearl of great price ( see Matt. 13:47)

What sacrifices would you be willing to make to obtain the treasure of the gospel and what sacrifices have you or those you know already made for the gospel?

Since I already have the gospel and have been a member since childhood, I have made living by the commandments part of my routine.  Some of the things I do that others might struggle with are go to church every Sunday for 3 hours, and volunteer my time in a calling.  Time is a big sacrifice.  Another principle I obey is the law of tithing.  As a household we pay a tenth of what we make to the church.  This might seem as a sacrifice to some, but for us it has been a blessing.  Another sacrifice is that of friends and associates.  Because we follow the word of wisdom and don’t drink coffee, smoke or drink alcohol, we have missed out on some social experiences.  However, I don’t feel this is a sacrifice either, because those people that really care about us, chose activities that we can participate in. 

 What does the net represent in the parable of the net cast into the sea?

The net represents missionary work, and gathering Christ’s followers. 

 What does it mean to be gathered into the net?  To be gathered means to be baptized and actively participating in the gospel. 

What is represented by the action of gathering the good into vessels and casting the bad away? (Matt 13:48-50) 

Heavenly Father is a perfect being, and unless we accept the Savior’s atonement and repent we will not be worthy to enter into the kingdom.  The righteous will be gathered and the unrighteous will be cast away.