Atlanta, Georgia Friday & Saturday April 16-17, 2010

Jesus,
Teller of Parables

Bernard Brandon Scott & Arthur J. Dewey

LECTURE

What is a Parable?
Jesus played upon the stereotypes and tensions in his world and wove explosive stories, called parables, that called into question the everyday assumptions of his audience. For centuries, these parables have been routinely misread and largely underestimated. Now scholars are attempting to recover their irony, edginess, and effrontery. This lecture will describe parables, and show how they can destabilize their listeners' world even today.

Friday, 7:30–9 P.M.

WORKSHOPS

The History and Craft of Parables
To understand Jesus' parables one must begin with an overview of the art of story-telling and the several methods involved in the interpretation of stories, ancient and modern. Participants will examine the ancient craft of parable-making side-by-side with modern examples of transparent poetry and creative songwriting. This workshop will explore not only what a parable might mean, but also how it means to be taken.

Saturday, 9:30 A.M.–Noon

Parables and the Kingdom
Jesus' parables are both a door and a mirror to the kingdom of God. But does the kingdom illuminate the parables (Matthew) or do parables illuminate the kingdom (Mark)?  Better yet, do we unravel the parables, or do they unravel us? The parables of the Banquet and Unjust Steward, the Prodigal Son, the Good Samaritan, the Leaven, and the Mustard Seed will serve as the primary texts for this presentation.

Saturday, 1:30–4 P.M.

All events at

Sandy Springs Christian Church
(Disciples of Christ)
301 Johnson Ferry Road NW
Atlanta, GA  30328

Fees and Registration

To register by mail or fax, use the printable JSOR registration form.

Contact information

Westar Institute
(503)  375-5323,  (877) 523-3545 tollfree,  (503) 375-5324 fax
 events@westarinstitute.org