In looking back at past lessons, I came across Short Stories by Jesus which our class did about five years ago. As usual, AJ Levine’s reflections are just as applicable today as they were back then. You just can’t go wrong with her interpretations of the New Testament, and I’m sure Vanderbilt feels blessed to have her on their faculty.
The book unpacks several well-known parables, breaking them down into six chapters:
- Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Lost Son [three parables for the price of one!]
- The Good Samaritan
- The Pearl of Great Price
- The Mustard Seed
- The Laborers in the Vineyard
- The Widow and the Judge
Note that Levine published a book with the same title a few years before this series. It covers three more parables and goes into greater depth for each. Our class chose the abridged series, covering it in the expected six weeks. My six lesson plans are included below.
If you’re looking for a new take on some old stories, this study should fit the bill.
As always, please let me know your reactions in the comments.