Explores the basics of parables: definition of a parable and some categories of parables. We examine parables found in John's Gospel and the nature of the Kingdom of God. Then review Jesus' purposes in teaching by parables: (1) to clarify truth to the spiritually hungry, and (2) to hide truth from the spiritually dull. We examine the long, sad history of allegorizing Jesus' parables, the outline some rules of interpretation to aid us.