Parable of the Light of the World, Parable of the Offending Hand or Foot, Parable of the Good and Corrupt Trees, Parable of the Wise and Foolish Builder Parable of the Unclean Spirit, Parable of the Lost Piece of Silver Parable of the Unjust Steward, Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, Parable of the Pharisee and Publican, Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard, Parable of the Shepherd and his Flock, Parable of the Unfaithful Husbandmen, PREFACE то THE REVISED EDITION. THE first edition of this work having been taken up with a rapid sale, the author has been induced to revise and enlarge it, that he might increase its usefulness, and thereby carry into fuller effect the original purpose of its compilation. It has been his main object to attain the true sense and original application of the parables, which has been done, principally, by a careful study of the context in each case, and by a comparison of the terms and metaphors with the same terms and metaphors as used in other parts of the Scriptures. He hopes that, by this method, he has been successful in his attempts to develope the proper sense of the Sacred Writings, in those parts embraced in the design of this work. The principal differences between this edition and the first, are as follows: The Introduction has been entirely added. It was thought not improper to introduce the work with a brief essay on the nature and use of parables, the probable reasons why the Saviour adopted them in his method of instruction, and the rules by which we should be governed in the interpretation. In this way the author has flattered himself that he has rendered a slight service to the order of Christians to which he belongs, and particularly to the young clergy of the denomination. Their increase has, of late, exceeded that of any former period; and we pray Heaven, that, as they grow in numbers, they may also grow in grace. and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.' We commend to their most serious study the character and doctrines of Jesus, and the method of instruction which he pursued with such singular success. May they remember, that it is enough for the servant that he be as his master;' and may they, therefore, be mduced to follow as closely as possible the examples which he has left us; to preach and to practise his doctrines of impartial benevolence; to illustrate, in a good life, as well as in a fine theory, the admirable tendency of his instructions; and to devote themselves, as he did, in life, in powers, in every thing, to the cause of truth, and to the establishment of virtue and good will among men. It will be seen that frequent reference is made, in this work, to the opinions of commentators; and many extracts are given from their writings. The author would have it distinctly understood why he has adduced these authorities. In the first place, it is not because he has any desire to rest his faith on the authority of great names, or to induce others to do so; nor is it because he prefers the wisdom of the world to the wisdom of God. Neither would he be suspected of wishing to obtain honor for the order of Christians to which he belongs, by representing the authors, from whom he has quoted, to have agreed with him, entirely, in sentiment. None of these reasons have moved him, but others of an entirely different character. In many cases he has adduced the testimony of these authors, because, |