Parables and Accounts That Teach Eternal Truths

Luke 16:1–12, 19–31; 17:11–19; 18:1–14. 

• Luke 16:1–12, the parable of the unjust steward. “The Children of This World Are in Their Generation Wiser Than the Children of Light” (pg. 124).

In this parable we learn that you should use your wealth to ensure your friends hereafter. We should be diligent, because the day in which we can use our earthly riches will pass. We are to take a lesson even from the dishonest and evil; in providing for our future.

• Luke 16:19–31, the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. “What Do We Learn About the Spirit World from the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus?” (pgs. 124–25).

In this parable we learn that in the postmortal world there is a paradise, or place of rest, and a hell, or place of torment. There was also a gulf between the two which made it impossible for social exchanges between the two prior to the resurrection of Christ. The Savior’s visit to the spirit world bridged the gulf, making it possible for the spirits in the spirit prison to receive the gospel from authorized missionaries. They are also allowed to repent and accept the gospel, with their work done vicariously in the temples.

• Luke 17:11–19, the ten lepers. “Why Were the Ten Lepers to Show Themselves to the Priests?” and “Were There Not Ten Cleansed?” (pg. 130).

Jesus told the lepers to show themselves to the priests so that they could show that they were cleansed that they may get permission to reenter society. He asked them to do so, to test their faith. When they went to do so, they were healed. Only one of the ten lepers, a Samaritan, came back to thank him.

• See also the Bible Dictionary, “Leprosy” (pg. 724).

This disease, which sometimes was contagious or infectious, was had by many “notables”. In these cases, it was given as a sign, a warning, or a punishment.

• Luke 18:1–8, the parable of the unjust judge. “Why Did the Lord Give the Parable of the Unjust Judge?” (pg. 131).

The purpose of this parable was to remind men that they need to pray always, and not faint.  

• Luke 18:9–14, the parable of the Pharisee and the publican. “Why Did the Lord Give the Parable of the Pharisee and Publican?” (pg. 131).

This parable was given for those who trusted in their self-righteousness, as an assurance of justification before God. This parable is applicable to all men, regardless of class.