Last time we discussed that metaphors are implied comparisons. Psalm 100:3 declares, “We are His people and the sheep of His pasture.” Note the metaphor: We are sheep. The metaphor does not state an actual fact; we are not literally sheep. Rather, the metaphor offers a comparison. Similes are formal comparisons using the words like or as. Isaiah 53:6 uses simile: “All of us like sheep have gone astray.” As a formal comparison, the simile is more true to fact. People often resemble wandering sheep.

Parables are extended similes. “The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in the field, which a man found and hid again; and from joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field” (Matt. 13:44). Note that this parable begins with a simile. In this case, Jesus draws out the comparison. In addition to being extended similes, parables are also stories that could actually take place. A man can find a treasure in a field, sell all that he has, and buy ...