Book #1: The Gospel Parables by Edward Armstrong

The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree

Armstrong concludes that the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree is to teach us more patience and attempt to give second chances. The parable stresses that to do nothing is to do harm. The Gardeners compassion for the tree, and the fact he did not give up hope, shows giving up hope does nothing. This parable is to warn us not to blame nature, rather than nurture.

DP #12: Why Systems fail to support the poor

Systems usually fail to support the poor because in all systems, someone has power over someone else, and it is shown, through the repetitive course of history, that humans abuse their power to benefit themselves. The systems are designed to create an organized societies, and thus far, the most 'successful', prosperous societies are one's with at least a little amount of leadership at the top of the social pyramid. This being said, those focused at the top of the pyramid often find themselves exploiting some of the less powerful in order to make a more successful society. Most systems today have become successful, on purpose or not, through the exploitation of people, and until the nature of humans evolve or people realize and change the faults of society, the systems will fail to support the powerless.

DP #11: The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

The servant refused to repay the lower servant's debt because he is selfish and greedy. Since the servant did not forgive the debt, other servants will notice this harsh act and make sure all of debts owed to him are paid for. This servant selfishly takes anything he can get, no matter the consequences or contradictory nature of the actions. This servant exemplifies the cruel, greedy nature of people who Jesus desired to save.