Modern Parables

Modern Parables is an original film-based Bible study series on Jesus’ parables. It uses short films combined with teaching by pastors and in-depth study materials to create an entirely new learning experience.

Modern Parables seeks to re-create the emotional immediacy that Jesus’ 1st-century audience felt when hearing the parables. It does this by using some of the best parable scholarship and exploring it through creative filmmaking. The gut-level understanding made possible by the films is intended to drive listeners into a deeper understanding of the Bible.

DVDs/Downloads can be purchased as a complete set or in sets of 2 lessons. The DVD/digital download includes everything you need to teach two lessons and a bonus lesson: the short film, an application video taught by Rev. Scotty Smith, a combined leader’s guide/study book, and a director’s commentary. The study can be used for Sunday School classes, small groups, youth groups, Christian schools, home schools, family study, and evangelism.

In this series:

Lessons 1 & 2 in the series. Hidden Treasure is a light comedy about an unsuccessful real estate agent who finds oil in a field and must convince his wife they should sell all they own to buy it.

Lessons 3 & 4 in the series. Samaritan is a drama about a teenage boy who watches his father and youth leader pass by a hurt man, only to see the man helped by someone he didn’t expect to help him.

Lessons 5 & 6 in the series. The Shrewd Manager is an ironic comedy about a dishonest farm manager who is fired and so must think quickly to figure out a way into his next job.

Lessons 7 & 8 in the series. The Widow & Judge is a moving drama about a poor widow who struggles against a corrupt judge in her pursuit of justice.

Lessons 9 & 10 in the series. The Sower is a documentary about an 80-year-old wheat farmer who grows his crop from planting to harvest.

Lessons 11 & 12 in the series. Prodigal Sons is a drama about two sons trying to manipulate their father to achieve their own selfish ends.