the role of the lukan parables in terms of the purpose of luke's gospel

4. Conversion
Of the parables that we have examined, eight parables are concerned with conversion, either
explicitly or implicitly. Conversion is explicit in the Barren Fig Tree (13:6-9; cf. 13:1-5)
where the period of grace is said to be limited. In the parable there are three main points that
correspond to each other: The figs that the farmer expects correspond to the fruit as God’s
people. The cutting down of the tree without fruit according to the commandment of the
farmer corresponds to judgment, and finally a potential additional year by suggestion of the
vinedresser, corresponds to mercy. The parable is clearly a warning of imminent judgment
and a merciful call for the repentance of Israel offered for a short while. All three parables of
the Lost in Luke 15:1-32 plainly convey images of conversion. The shepherd and the woman
in Luke 15:4-10 seek out the sheep and the coin that has been lost, appear to represent divine
initiative. The great joy of salvation which is delineated in finding the lost as one sinner who
repents (15:7, 10) is celebrated. The younger son’s confession and return in Luke 15:11-24
are sincere acts of repentance, even though there is doubt among scholars as to whether the
confession of the younger son is authentic. Given the context of forgiveness and salvation in
the father’s proclamation in v. 24 and 32, the imagery of the celebration may well convey the
messianic banquet. On the whole, the three parables teach that if God rejoices at the return of
sinners, how much more should God’s people jump with joy over the return of a sinner? The
parable of the Rich man and Lazarus (16:19-31) is not designed to offer details or a precise
schedule about what happens after death, but rather to provide instructions concerning the use
of wealth, the sufficiency of Moses and the prophets, and repentance. In the second part of
the parable with in v. 30, it is to some extent explicit that the theme of
repentance here is represented as the proper use of possessions, and concern for the poor, as
one aspect of it. 1
We can also view the Great Feast (14:15-24) and the parable of the Unjust
Steward (16:1-13) as the parables of conversion which implicitly carry images of conversion,
in the sense that they respectively convey the need of human response and for urgent decision
in the face of eschatological crisis. The parable of the Unjust Steward plays a role as a
positive instance, especially concerning the proper use of unrighteous money in the light of
the eschatological perspective. Lastly, in the Pharisee and Tax Collector (18:9-14), it plays a
role as models of prayer, repentance, conversion and belief in Jesus, through the contrast
between tax collectors and Pharisees. Justification before God is pertinently expressed by a
repentant heart of straightforward confession, entrusting himself to the mercy and grace of
1. Stein, Luke, 422.
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