The parables of Jesus are the compelling stories and illustrations from our familiar world which the Lord used to open windows for us into heaven. They help us to understand the heart of God and the nature of the spiritual kingdom which His Son has brought into the world at such an awful cost. There are messages of comfort in the parables and some stern warnings too. They are best understood by those who have a longing to know God's Son and to follow Him in genuine earnestness. These studies are the compilation of a series of articles written for "Christianity Magazine."