Parables and Accounts That Teach Eternal Truths

This week, I wanted to study about parables and accounts that teach eternal truths.  There were 5 that I looked into more deeply to try to discover what principle the Savior wanted me to learn from Him by way of His parables. 

In Luke Chapter 16 Verses 1-12, it talks about the parable of the unjust steward.  The principle that I obtained from these verses was the importance of preparing for my eternal future.  While it is wise to prepare temporally for the things that we need while we are here on this earth, temporal things are just that—temporary.  It is vital that we also take care to prepare spiritually for our eternal life after we leave this earth.

In Luke Chapter 16 Verses 19-31, it talks about the parable of the rich man and Lazarus.  The principle that I got out of this was the importance of temple and family history work.  The people who are loved ones of the past are waiting to hear the gospel message.  To paraphrase Elder Ballard’s October 2013 General Conference talk titled, “Trust In the Lord,” he said that it is up to us to invite but it is up to whoever we invite to choose whether or not they want to accept our invitation.  Therefore, doing our family history work and temple work is crucial in order to give deceased members of our family a chance to make that choice for themselves. 

In Luke Chapter 17 Verses 11-19, it talks about the parable of the ten lepers.  The thing that stuck out to me the most, and therefore became the most important principle to me from this parable, was the reminder that what the scripture says in Doctrine and Covenants Section 18 Verse 10 is correct”  “Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God;”    

In Luke Chapter 18 Verses 1-8, it talks about the parable of the unjust judge.  The principle that I got from this was the importance of consistent, honest prayer.  I need to learn how to pray to Heavenly Father as though I was talking to Him face to face, instead of just having my prayers be a set of random words strung together.

In Luke Chapter 18 Verses 9-14, it talks about the Pharisee and the publican. This parable reminded me that self-righteousness is no justification before God.  I want to strive to do all I can to stop justifying things, as well as stamp out any self-righteousness that is inside of me.