when explicit questions are not present, parables are intended to answer questions. Finding the implied question a parable addresses is key in interpretation. Often Jesus’ parables come as a response to a statement someone else makes. The intent of parables is to force thought, usually new and unexpected thought, so as to gain insight and bring about response. A number of parables end with the statement “Let the person who has ears to hear hear” or something similar, which is a call to move past